Can blue light from your phone make you wrinkle? We are investigating

When it comes to skincare, we are the epitome of rule-followers. Never will we ever be fall asleep with makeup on or go a day without sunscreen, which, to be honest, is essentially the equivalent of a felony in skincare. And while we're pretty much law-abiding members of the skin care society, chances are there's at least one violator of our skin care products for every day Do not protect against: HEV light, more commonly referred to as blue light. Embarrassed? We were too. That's why we drew on the experience of Dr. Barbara Sturm, founder of Dr. Barbara Sturm Molecular Cosmetics for answers (and product recommendations!) on all things blue light. 

so what Is Blue light? 

According to Dr. Sturm, blue light, or high energy visible light (HEV), is a type of ultra-fine pollutant emitted by both the sun and our electronic screens that can damage the skin. “It [HEV light] behaves differently than the sun's UVA and UVB rays; most SPFs do not protect against it,” says Dr. Sturm. 

She explains that prolonged exposure to screens (guilty!), and thus exposure to blue light, can cause premature aging, loss of skin elasticity and, in extreme cases, even hyperpigmentation. “HEV light can also cause dehydration, leading to skin barrier dysfunction,” she continues. “In turn, this can cause inflammation, eczema and acne.” 

What can we do about blue light damage? 

"Given environmental stressors, it's especially important to have a strong skin barrier," says Dr. Sturm, who specializes in non-invasive anti-aging treatments. While we can make a conscious decision to stay away from abrasion, it's nearly impossible to avoid checking our phone (aka Instagram) or scrolling through our computer. Fortunately, there are several products that can help counteract the visible effects of blue light exposure. Below you will find some of our favorites.

Dr. Barbara Sturm Molecular Cosmetics Anti Pollution Drops

“My Anti-Pollution Drops contain a special skin protection complex with extracts derived from marine microorganisms,” says Dr. Sturm. "These extracts enhance the skin's defense against urban pollution and signs of skin aging by forming a matrix on the surface of the skin." 

SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF 

If you are noticing signs of atmospheric aging of the skin, which may be the result of exposure to light, add this serum to your skin care regimen. With a high concentration of vitamin C, protection against ozone pollution and antioxidant properties, this product is designed to improve the appearance of discoloration and fine lines. 

Elta MD UV Replenish Broad Spectrum SPF 44

While most sunscreens don't yet offer blue light protection, this Elta MD selection stands out from the crowd. Swapping it out for a daily sunscreen is easy. It is lightweight and oil-free and also protects you from UVA/UVB, HEV light and infrared rays.