BLUE LIGHT PROTECTION
Blue light, or high energy visible light (HEVL), is part of the sun’s light spectrum, but it’s also emitted from screens. And since it’s known to damage skin, blue light-protective skincare promises to do just what it says on the tin.
WHY IT’S BUZZY
Rowan Hall-farrise, head of global education for QMS Mediocosmetics, points out that increased exposure to blue light may cause slacker skin, dark spots and other visible signs of ageing. She advises wearing a sunscreen with mineral filters (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) indoors, as initial studies indicate this could offer protection. She’s also a fan of seeking out antioxidant ingredients. ‘These mitigate the inflammation caused by environmental stressors – of which light is one.’
BEHIND THE BUZZ
Dermatologist Dr Anjali Mahto isn’t convinced. ‘Based on the current research, the small amount of HEVL emitted by devices is unlikely to damage skin,’ she says, describing this idea as a ‘marketing myth’. But, she adds, HEVL from daylight is a concern. ‘It causes cell damage and, disproportionally in darker skin, hyperpigmentation, meaning HEVL protection is actually more worthwhile outside.’ The problem is, iron oxides are the only thing that blocks HEVL. These are mineral powders that are formulated with UV filters, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, and can be found in mineralbased SPFS. Yet, they’re tricky ingredients, as they leave a white cast on darker skin. However, iron oxides can still be found in some sunscreens, some of which are formulated to avoid leaving behind telltale signs. ‘Antioxidant protection helps, too,’ adds Dr Mahto. ‘It counteracts free radical damage wreaked on your cells by blue, UV and infrared light. I recommend wearing a vitamin C serum (look for 10% to 15% L-ascorbic acid) under your sunscreen: it’s one of the best-studied antioxidants in skincare.’
THE WH VERDICT
Your smartphone might not be ageing you, but the HEVL in sunlight reconfirms the need for that most essential of anti-ageing potions: a high SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen – with iron oxide if you can find it and worn with an antioxidant serum.
TRY
Clinique Fresh Pressed Daily Booster With Pure Vitamin C 10%, £58;
QMS Medicosmetics Epigen
Pollution Detox Day Serum, £167; Murad City Skin Age Defense Broad Spectrum SPF50, £60