Out of the blue
As for the blue light that our screens produce, there is ‘no evidence’ that it damages our eyes or our vision, says Mr Ezra. It can, however, induce headaches in people prone to migraines or who have a sensitivity to light. But when it comes to the ultra-thin skin around our eyes, there is a problem. HEV, which is electromagnetic radiation that sits between ultraviolet and infrared light, is also part of the spectrum of sunlight, along with highly damaging UVA and UVB rays. We know UVA sets off free-radical activity in skin cells that breaks down collagen and elastin; now, clinical research shows HEV light does much the same.
So, what to do? First of all, dive into the settings on your devices and change the light preference to 24-hour Night Shift mode or Night Light mode (or download the f.lux app from justgetflux.com). It blocks blue light in favour of innocuous yellow light, and is an instant skin saver. If you wear glasses, consider adding a blue light-blocking tint to your prescription lenses. If you don’t, spectacle brand Quay offers prescription-less blue light-blocking glasses in a wide variety of frames, from £40 (quayaustralia.co.uk).
In terms of skincare that might protect against these rays – well, it’s complicated. No broad-spectrum sunscreen is capable of fully blocking blue light, although it appears that mineral sun filters (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide), which partly deflect rays, offer some protection. They do shield against UVA and UVB, so are always worth using.
As blue light causes oxidative stress, the hunt is on for antioxidants with specialist ability to mop up Hev-induced damage. Cocoa seed extract is one active showing promise, but right now, your best bet is to opt for a cocktail of antioxidants, as they all tackle different pathways of free-radical damage. Look for ingredients such as vitamins C and E, grape seed extract, astaxanthin and green tea. Try these: Ultrasun Eye SPF30 (2), £20, for serious mineral UV and antioxidant protection; Oskia Citylife I-zone Lip
& Eye Balm (3), £48, a potent shield against city and light pollution that counters elasticity loss; and AHC Essential
Real Eye Cream For Face (1), £26 (lookfantastic.com), with antioxidants to help protect your eyes and face.