It’s no surprise that your eyes are more sensitive to some types of light over others. Blue light (and we’re not talking about decorative blue light bulbs) is especially harsh on your eyes, and the issues associated with this light and how it affects your eyes is a growing problem.

So, what is blue light? Blue light is the light coming from your computers, televisions, smart phones, and tablets. Adults have a hard enough time “unplugging” due to work commitments, email, and keeping up with family but kids of all ages may find it even more difficult to put down the phone. So many children have grown up with technology in hand, even during class time, that many find it impossible to disconnect; to stop liking, commenting, and textin

What’s this doing to their eyes? Let’s look at some science behind blue light offered by Dr. Danny Clarke in a recent FRAMED! blog post.

Blue light is the only light in the visible light spectrum that scatters, causing a mild lack of focus. The eyes will fatigue while trying to constantly clear this blur. This condition is most commonly referred to as digital eyestrain.

Unfortunately, the harmful effects of blue light can be much more serious than eyestrain. Numerous studies have proven that blue light increases the risk for macular degeneration (AMD), a condition that causes central vision loss and is the leading cause of blindness in people over 65 years of age in the United States. Unlike UV, which is absorbed by the front of the eye, blue light goes through the front of the eye and ends up affecting the retina, which is at the back of the eye. This is why blue light can increase the risk for macular degeneration.

How can your protect your children’s eyes from these risks?

The simplest way to cut down on the harmful effects of blue light is to cut down on how much kids are exposed to. Unless you physically take their phones and tablets away from them while they are at school, it’s difficult to prevent them from using their technology while you are away. Instead, make an effort to have a technology free dinner or a family game night once or twice a week that requires no television, no computers, and no cell phones. This not only helps keep their eyes safe but it also helps you all bond as a family!

If cutting down on technology use and unplugging is just not an option for your family, ask your optician about lens options for your child’s glasses and sunglasses that help cut down on blue light damage and better protect their eyes.