Why Should I Care About Blue Light?

  • Blue light is generated from the sun and artificially from computer screens, smartphones, tablets, televisions, and energy efficient lighting.
  • Blue light is more damaging to our eyes than Ultraviolet light, and Blue light also affects our vision, and our physiological health.
  • According to the American Optometric Association (AOA), children are more at risk from damaging sunlight because the lens on their eyes allows unfiltered light to reach the retina at the back of the eye.

How does Blue Light effect me?

  • Blue light is a cause of gradual oxidation in the eye, and over the course of a lifetime may result in macular degeneration.
  • Most of us acquire over 70% of light vision damage before 20 years of age because the lens of the eye has no protection, and both Ultraviolet light and Blue Light pass unfiltered through the lens.

Consequences of Blue Light exposure:

Direct consequences on the eye

SHORT TERM unfiltered Blue Light exposure produces the short term phenomenon of “veiled glare” which results in vision irritation (dry, burning, itchy eyes, fatigue) and headaches.

MEDIUM TERM Blue light associated strain on the eye may contribute to either presbyopia or myopia.

LONG TERM Blue Light impact on the eye may include damage to the retina and progressive degeneration of the macula, which is the leading cause of visual impairment (e.g. Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)). This type of vision loss affects color perception, the ability to read, write, drive and other cognitive functions. In a fully affected form, this type of degeneration can lead to blindness. AMD is a worldwide epidemic affecting an estimated 30 to 50 million people; this is equal to the number of people affected by Alzheimer’s disease and all cancers combined.

Indirect consequences on Physiology

While naturally occurring Blue Light has been overlooked, new concern is related to the rise of the artificial sources of Blue Light.

The Harvard University Science Journal links Blue Light to broader health issues. Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone in humans and is directly involved in regulating the circadian rhythm of the brain.

With Blue Light exposure from artificial light sources, the pineal gland produces less Melatonin and the normal sleep cycle is affected. Ineffective sleep is linked to workplace safety, learning and memory problems, and an overall increase in mortality.

The impact on circadian rhythm can result in a multitude of health concerns including attention and depression issues, cardiovascular performance (may lead to cardiometabolic consequences such as Type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, obesity, organ function impact) and has been associated with an increased cancer risk and impaired immune system function.

KEY POINTS 

  1. Blue Light and Eye Health
    • Blue Light spans the 400-500 nm wavelength and includes violet, blue, and turquoise light.
    • Blue Light can cause oxidative stress and chronic retinal damage, leading to macular degeneration (AMD).
  2. Oxidation and Retinal Damage
    • Blue Light exposure leads to oxidation, similar to how saltwater rusts metal over time.
    • The macula, particularly the fovea, is highly vulnerable due to its role in focusing light.
  3. Blue Light and AMD (Age-related Macular Degeneration)
    • Blue Light exposure contributes to chronic retinal cell damage, leading to progressive AMD.
    • Studies show that Blue Light exposure indoors (via LED screens and artificial lighting) is more intense than natural sunlight exposure.
  4. Comparison to Other Chronic Health Risks
    • Blue Light exposure is likened to cigarettes for lung disease and trans fats for cardiovascular disease.
    • Like diabetes from high fructose corn syrup, Blue Light exposure is a modern lifestyle issue.
  5. Direct Retinal Cell Death from Blue Light
    • Research shows that Blue Light, particularly at 445 nm, triggers programmed cell death in photoreceptor cells.
    • This effect is seen in prolonged exposure to screens and even during extended ophthalmic surgeries.
  6. Blue Light in Circadian Rhythm Disruption
    • Blue Light suppresses melatonin, affecting sleep cycles.
    • LED lights and screens emitting 480 nm light contribute to sleep disorders and insomnia.
  7. Blue Light and Migraines/Post-Concussion Syndrome
    • Blue Light, particularly at 480-481 nm, stimulates melanopsin receptors linked to migraine initiation and photophobia.
  8. TrueBlue Lenses as a Solution
    • Developed using biologically relevant pigments that selectively absorb and neutralize Blue Light.
    • Unlike traditional tinted or coated lenses, these lenses absorb Blue Light and allow you to see things in their true colour 
  9. Tolentino Eye Research Foundation (TERF) Endorsement

    • TERF supports TrueBlue lenses as medically necessary for AMD prevention.
    • Committed to educating the public and eye care professionals about Blue Light dangers.
  10. Scientific Backing & Research Involvement

TrueBlue lenses were developed based on extensive scientific testing.

TERF is collaborating with experts to further study and validate their benefits.

Dr. Tolentino’s Expertise & Advocacy

Renowned ophthalmologist and researcher in retinal diseases.

Developed multiple FDA-approved eye treatments, including Avastin and Lucentis.

TERF is willing to support this initiative through lectures, education and advocacy