Your Laptop and Smart Phone Screen Might be Ruining Your Skin

How many screens have you looked at so far today? Two or three is the most likely answer. Your iPhone, your computer screen and perhaps a tablet. While it's long been known that screens don't help your eyes, what is becoming more talked about is the effect they're having on your skin.

For years you've been slathering on sun creams to protect against harmful UV rays from the sun, but there is another light that could be equally as ageing. Bazaar spoke to the pioneering skin expert and cosmetic doctor, Jean-Louis Sebagh about the topic…

Why are screens harmful to your skin?

"Screens, including your smart phone, laptop and tablet emit High Energy Visible Light (HEV), which is the natural source of blue light," explains Dr Sebagh. Excessive exposure to HEV light can increase pigmentation and damage the barrier function of your skin, which is responsible for defending against environmental aggressors and locking moisture in.

Is it more damaging than sunlight?

"In northern climates, you have less exposure to UVA and UVB and more blue light, so it is important to protect against HEV light as, research has shown that over time this can accelerate photo ageing of the skin," says Dr Sebagh.

How can you defend against it?

While a lengthy digital detox might not be possible for everyone, the best approach is to limit the time you spend looking at a screen. Putting a 9pm curfew on your phone and tablet can help though, and it's likely to give you a better night's sleep too. Fortunately, there are other methods of defending your skin against HEV light..

​Via