By now, we all know and understand the detrimental effects pollution can have on our skin. As air pollution levels increase, particularly in urban areas, our skin is more vulnerable to free radical damage, increasing the visible effects of the early signs of ageing and the dulling of our complexions.
However, new research has gone to show that external aggressors and air pollution are not the only forms of pollution which may be affecting our skin. Blue light pollution has been found to be detrimental to your complexion and has been linked to causing the same ageing and dulling effects as environmental pollution.
What is blue light pollution?
Blue light, otherwise known as High Energy Visible light (HEV), is the light that comes from electronic devices, including your laptop and your mobile phone. HEV rays emitted from your devices penetrate the layers of your skin and in turn can cause damage your complexion and accelerate ageing.
Harmful to both your skin and eyes, blue light creates free radicals that weaken the skin's protective barrier and promote melanin production which can cause pigmentation. Free radical damage also causes the skin to lose elasticity, allowing wrinkles to form and skin to sag.
Excessive blue light accelerates the oxidation process, causing hyperpigmentation and damage the skin barrier making it more prone to signs of ageing, increased uneven skin tone, dullness and fine lines and wrinkles - Dr. Murad
Evolving research shows that in the long term, frequent exposure to blue light can truly impact our skin and therefore it is essential that we protect our skin against various forms of pollution just as we wear SPF each day to protect from UVA and UVB rays.
The best blue light protection and anti-pollution skincare
Although more products are being developed which specifically protect your skin against blue light, opting for products loaded with antioxidants will also help to protect your skin and keep your complexion clear, radiant and youthful.
We've gathered together an edit of the best products to incorporate in to your beauty routine to protect against HGV allowing you to continue using your electronic devices safe in the knowledge that you are shielding your skin from harmful blue light rays.
Elemis Daily Defence Shield SPF30
The lightweight Elemis Daily Defence Shield SPF30 protects and perfects your complexion, acting as the perfect base for makeup. Providing broad spectrum protection against UV rays, pollution and blue light damage caused by mobile and computer screens, the Defence Shield should be worn every day to keep your skin clear and radiant. Enriched with Coconut and Jojoba Oils, the formula also replenishes your skin, hydrating and smoothing for a supple, healthy-looking looking complexion.
Murad City Skin Age Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 50 PA++++
The multi-tasking Murad City Skin Age Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 50 PA++++ offers instant colour correction and brightens your complexion whilst protection your skin against a myriad of rays and aggressors. Gliding effortlessly onto your complexion, the mineral formula offers ultra-high protection without leaving a greasy residue on your skin. Perfect for those will dull skin, the City Skin Age Defense Broad Spectrum SPF leaves a luminous veil on your skin for a glowy, radiant finish.
Chantecaille Anti-Pollution Mattifying Cream
Ideal for those with oily and combination skin types, the Chantecaille Anti-Pollution Mattifying Cream balances your complexion whilst offering high protection against HEV rays. With a light, whipped texture, the cream is enriched with antioxidant rich Desert Cactus Yeast and White Rea to further protect against external aggressors which may damage your skin. With the added benefit of minimising the appearance of pores and uneven texture, the Anti-Pollution Mattifying Cream balanced and protected with a smooth appearance.
