If you spend a lot of time looking at a computer screen, you may have heard about blue light glasses. With so much of your day spent in front of phones, tablets, and monitors, our team at The Eye Studio by Kennedy Eye Clinic understands it’s natural to wonder how you can make that screen time more comfortable for your eyes, especially if you experience symptoms of digital eye strain.
Blue light glasses work by using a special coating on the lenses that filters or absorbs a portion of blue light before it can reach your eyes. This simple technology is designed to reduce your exposure to blue light from digital devices and artificial lighting.
What Is Blue Light?
Before you can understand how the glasses work, it helps to know a little about blue light itself. It is a type of light on the visible spectrum that has a short wavelength and high energy.
The Sun Is the Biggest Source
The main source of blue light is the sun. This light is what makes the sky look blue on a clear day and plays a part in your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle.
Digital Screens and Artificial Lights
You also get blue light from many artificial sources you use every day. These include:
- Smartphones and tablets
- Computer monitors
- Flat-screen televisions
- Fluorescent and LED lighting
These devices are a common reason people experience symptoms related to what is known as computer vision syndrome.
The Technology Behind the Lenses
Blue light glasses are designed to decrease the amount of blue light that reaches your eyes. They do this in a straightforward way that involves treating the lenses.
How the Lenses Filter Light
The lenses have a special coating or are made with a material that either absorbs or reflects some blue light waves. This is often why you might notice a slight yellow or amber tint to the lenses, as this colour helps counteract the blue light.
Not All Blue Light Lenses Are the Same
You can find different types of blue light filtering lenses, which can be added to many eyewear styles and lens options. Some are designed for daytime use with a clearer appearance, while others may have a more noticeable tint for evening use when you are winding down.
What People Notice
While sufficient scientific evidence doesn’t yet prove this coating reduces digital eye strain, the lenses do block some blue light. Some people find this helps improve visual comfort when looking at a computer screen or sitting under fluorescent lights. Experiences can vary from person to person, but some users report feeling:
- Less digital eye strain
- More comfortable vision under harsh office lights
- Reduced glare from screens
Are There Any Disadvantages?
Like any eyewear, blue light glasses have a few things to consider. These points are often minor and can depend on the quality of the lenses you choose.
Slight Colour Distortion
Because the lenses filter a part of the light spectrum, they can slightly change how you see colours. This is usually very subtle, but it might be noticeable to people who work in design or visual arts, where colour accuracy is important.
They Are Not a Cure-All
It’s important to remember that blue light glasses do not fix underlying vision problems. If you experience ongoing headaches, blurry vision, or eye fatigue, these symptoms might point to something else that can be assessed during a comprehensive eye exam. For some, these issues are related to eye misalignment, which can be addressed with solutions like Neurolenses.
When to Speak with an Optometrist in Saskatoon
Deciding if blue light glasses are right for you can be confusing. An optometrist can discuss your screen time habits and help you figure out if a blue light filter is a suitable option for your specific needs. They can also recommend the type of lens that may work for you.
A full eye exam is the most valuable step for any eye-related discomfort. A visit with your optometrist in Saskatoon can help identify the true source of your symptoms, whether it’s digital strain or another vision issue, and find a solution to help you see clearly and comfortably.
Our team at The Eye Studio by Kennedy Eye Clinic is here to help you protect your eye health. Book an appointment today to discuss your visual comfort.
