Now that nice weather is here, many of us have pulled out the sunscreen and sunglasses. The dangers of ultraviolet (UV) exposure are widely known, but current research shows that even blue visible light can cause biological damage, particularly in the eye. Blue light sources include sunlight as well as computers, TVs, lights, cell phones, and tablets.
Below are Dr. LaBrosse’s recommendations to protect your eyes:
Physical protections include using sunglasses and wide brimmed hats outdoors. Your prescription “indoor” lenses may also be protected with a clear UV block or an anti-glare coating that blocks blue light for heavy computer users.
(Gentle Monster frames along with a wide-brimmed hat always look good!)
Chemical protections are sunblocks and sunscreen. Many facial moisturizers can be found that include SPF. These are perfectly fine to use on your eyelids as well (just steer clear of the lash margin). Amazingly, there are very few eye creams that have SPF, but Dr. LaBrosse has found some that she can recommend.
Nutrients are important in providing the eye the building blocks to maintain its own natural sun protection. Lutein and zeaxanthin are found in high concentrations in the macula (the area of the eye responsible for color vision and 20/20 vision). These pigments protect the eye from UV/blue light exposure, and high concentrations in the eye are protective against macular degeneration. Green leafy vegetables (especially kale) and yellow/orange fruits and vegetables provide lutein and zeaxanthin. If you have a family history of macular degeneration or just plain don’t like to eat your veggies, Dr. LaBrosse recommends vitamin supplementation. Her favorite product is EyePromise by Zeavision, available at EyeSpy or at zeavision.com.
Start enjoying the summer, local farmer’s markets….and use these tips to protect your eyes from blue light:-)
