BlockBlueLight - NightFall Billie Blue in Black

Blue light is a type of high-energy visible (HEV) light that is emitted by the sun and by digital devices such as smartphones, computers, tablets, and televisions. It has a shorter wavelength and higher energy than other types of visible light, which makes it more damaging to the eyes and more likely to cause eye strain and other vision problems associated with digital screen use. Exposure to blue light can also disrupt our natural sleep-wake cycles by suppressing the production of the sleep hormone melatonin, making it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep at night. Therefore, it is important to protect our eyes from the harmful effects of blue light, especially when we spend significant amounts of time in front of digital devices.

Blue light is emitted from both natural and artificial sources. Natural sources include the sun, which emits high amounts of blue light, and the blue sky, which is a result of the scattering of blue light by the atmosphere.

Artificial sources of blue light include digital devices such as smartphones, computers, tablets, and televisions, as well as LED and fluorescent lighting used in homes, offices, and public spaces. Blue light is also emitted by gaming devices, e-readers, and even some alarm clocks.

While blue light exposure is necessary for regulating our natural sleep-wake cycle and mood, excessive exposure can have negative effects on our eyes, brain, and overall health. Therefore, it's important to take steps to reduce our exposure to blue light from digital devices and artificial lighting, such as using blue light filtering glasses, reducing screen time before bed, and adjusting the brightness and colour temperature of our screens.

Blue light affects our sleep by suppressing the production of the sleep hormone melatonin, which is responsible for regulating our sleep-wake cycle. Melatonin is produced by the brain in response to darkness, and its secretion is naturally suppressed by exposure to light.

When we're exposed to blue light, particularly in the evening or at night, it can trick our brain into thinking it's still daytime and suppress melatonin secretion, making it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep. This can result in poor sleep quality, insomnia, and daytime fatigue.

Research has shown that blue light exposure before bedtime can shift our circadian rhythm by delaying the onset of sleep and causing us to feel more alert at night. This is especially true for people who use electronic devices late at night or work night shifts, as their exposure to blue light is higher than for those who don't.

To combat the negative effects of blue light on our sleep, it's important to limit screen time before bed, reduce exposure to artificial light at night, and use blue light blocking glasses or apps to filter out blue light. By taking these steps, we can ensure that we get the deep, restful sleep we need to feel our best.