Does Excessive Screen Time Accelerate Skin Aging?

With the rising screen time and declining exposure to natural light, there has been growing concerns over safety of lights emitted by smartphones, tablets, and computers. These electronic devices have become an integral part of our lives and dominate the biggest part of our daily routine. If you are not working on your laptops, you will get smartphones to divert your attention without realising the harmful effects that they may pose to the skin health. The latest phenomenon is also popularly known as tech aging that has contributed significantly to wrinkles, skin stress, and fine lines.

How Screen Time Leads To Skin Aging?

According to a report published in National Library of Medicine, dermatologists believe that the due to the harmful effects of irradiation with electromagnetic fields (EMFs) and visible light (VL), regular exposure to VL and EMFs produced by smartphones can lead to skin damage and accelerated aging.

Dr. Abhilasha Patil, Clear Skin Clinic said, “when you come in contact with your phone, laptop, ipad, and even tabs, the devices emit something known as blue light also known as high intensity or high energy visible light. So when it emits this blue light, it causes oxidative stress and free radical damage to your skin. So eventually, it leads to faster aging and even increased pigmentation of your skin. And, most importantly this blue light penetrates deeper than UV rays.”   

How To Protect Your Skin From Blue Light?

She suggested few tips that can help you protect your skin. It includes applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen everyday even if you are not outdoors. “Use skincare rich in antioxidants like vitamin C and Niacinamide. Reduce late-night screen time to allow your skin to recover,” added Abhilasha Patil.  

Digital screens produce high energy visible light popularly known as blue light. The blue light as the name indicates has a short wavelength about 450 to 490 nm and contains increased amount of energy. Sunlight is the biggest source of blue light when it comes to outdoor. For indoors, LEDs, tv, smartphone, laptops, and computers including gaming systems have emerged as the main sources of blue light. However, the amount of high energy visible light produced by these appliances is extremely less when compared with sun. However, the amount of time that individuals spend with these devices emerged a major source of concern.  

Excessive screen time does not only deteriorate the skin health but also impacts the circadian rhythm, essential for sound sleep and cellular repair, which is highest during night time.  Therefore, we can conclude here that it is ideal to switch off all the digital devices for some hours when you go to sleep. It will not only boost the skin health but improve quality sleep too.

Disclaimer: This content is for general informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions about your health or treatment options.