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What Are Blue Light Glasses? Here’s Everything You Need to Know
Last Updated on January 2, 2025
In our digital age, screens are everywhere—computers, smartphones, tablets, TVs—and with them comes exposure to blue light. If you’ve been experiencing eye strain, headaches, or difficulty sleeping after screen time, you may have come across the term “blue light glasses.”
But what are blue light glasses, and how can they help? Let’s uncover everything you need to know.
Keep reading or jump right to the part that piques your curiosity:
- How Do Blue Light Glasses Work?
- The Science of Visible Light
- What Do Blue Light Glasses Look Like?
- How Much Blue Light Do Glasses Block?
- Blue Light Glasses Benefits
- When to Use Blue Light Glasses
- Where Can I Find Blue Light Glasses?
- Practical Tips for Buying Blue Light Glasses
- Why Blue Light Glasses are Worth Considering
- Frequently Asked Questions
How Do Blue Light Glasses Work?
Blue light glasses are specially designed to filter out blue light emitted by digital screens and artificial lighting. They typically feature lenses coated with a blue light filter that absorbs or blocks a portion of this high-energy visible (HEV) light.
By doing so, these glasses help diminish digital eye strain and improve comfort during prolonged screen use.
Read our other article if you’re wondering how to tell if blue light glasses work.
The Science of Visible Light
Visible light is a small part of the electromagnetic spectrum, which also includes radio waves, microwaves, and ultraviolet light. Blue light, a high-energy visible light, sits at the shorter wavelength end of the spectrum, just above ultraviolet light. Its short wavelength means it carries more energy, which can penetrate deep into the eye and potentially cause discomfort or damage.
What Do Blue Light Glasses Look Like?
Blue light glasses come in a variety of styles to suit different preferences. They look like regular eyeglasses and can range from minimalist frames to bold, fashion-forward designs.
Some are transparent with barely visible lenses, while others may have a slight tint, depending on the technology used and what percentage of blue light they may block. For glasses designed for night use, these will have deeply orange-tinted lenses.
How Much Blue Light Do Glasses Block?
The amount of blue light blocked varies by the glasses. Some block 10-20%. Others, designed for heavy screen users, can block 90% or more. It’s important to check the specifications of the glasses to determine their blocking capacity.
For everyday use, a moderate level of filtering is often sufficient. After all, our body likes some blue light! But for those who work long hours in front of screens, or who work or look at screens after dark, higher blocking capacity might be better.
It may be worth considering having two pairs of glasses for use throughout the day. Or you can get a pair that have interchangeable lenses to switch between different levels of blue light blocking capabilities. But, if you’re new to eye health, try one pair and see how it goes!
Blue Light Glasses Benefits
The benefits of blue light glasses extend beyond eye comfort. Here are some potential benefits of incorporating blue light glasses into your daily accessories:
- Reduced eye strain: alleviate the discomfort caused by prolonged screen exposure.
- Improved sleep: blue light exposure delays the production of melatonin in your brain, thus impacting your circadian rhythm. Wearing these glasses, especially before bedtime, can support healthier sleep patterns.
- Enhanced productivity: Less eye strain and better sleep can contribute to improved focus and efficiency.
- Protection from prolonged exposure: Although research is ongoing, some studies suggest that decreasing blue light exposure may help protect against retina damage and protect your vision.
When to Use Blue Light Glasses
Blue light glasses are versatile and suitable for various scenarios:
- Everyday use: Considering the ubiquitous nature of digital devices with screens, while working on computers, watching TV, or scrolling on your phone.
- In the workplace: Particularly beneficial for individuals spending long hours in front of screens, such as remote workers. Even if you are not in front of screens, if you are somewhere with a lot of artificial LED light, your eyes may be overexposed to blue light!
- Evening wear: To help reduce exposure to blue light while using screens at night or inside around artificial light can support better sleep hygiene.
Where Can I Find Blue Light Glasses?
Finding the right blue light glasses doesn’t have to be complicated. At DefenderShield, we offer a selection of blue light glasses designed for comfort, style, and maximum protection.
Practical Tips for Buying Blue Light Glasses
When shopping for blue light glasses, keep these tips in mind:
- Consider the percentage the glasses block: match the glasses to your level of screen exposure.
- Choose comfortable frames: make sure they fit well for extended wear.
- Verify lens quality: look for anti-reflective and scratch-resistant coatings for longevity of use.
- Read reviews: see what others say about their experiences to help guide your purchasing decision.
Now you can start exploring a variety of options. Check out what we have for you at the DefenderShield store:
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Versa Blue Light Blocking Glasses – 2 in 1 Clip On Lenses$59.99 USD
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Blue Light Blocking Glasses – Universal Fitover Series$49.99 USD
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Blue Light Blocking Glasses – Kids Series$24.99 USD
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Product on saleBlue Light Blocking Glasses – Signature Series$48.99 – $49.99 USD
Conclusion: Why Blue Light Glasses are Worth Considering
Blue light glasses are a simple, effective tool for anyone looking to manage the effects of prolonged screen exposure and improve your overall wellness.
Our advice? Whether you want to reduce eye strain, sleep better, or protect your eyes from potential long-term damage, they are definitely worth considering.
Ready to give them a try? Visit our DefenderShield store to find the perfect pair for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, they can significantly reduce digital eye strain and improve visual comfort.
Yes. They help by filtering out harmful blue light, potentially reducing risks of long-term damage.
Wear them during screen time or in environments with artificial lighting, particularly in the evening before going to sleep.
Not necessarily. Many look just like regular eyeglasses, though with tinted lenses.
Some do, often yellow or amber, while others are nearly clear.
Yes, many opticians offer lens coatings that can be added to your current prescription glasses.