When most people think of skin damage, UV rays typically come to mind. But did you know the damaging effects of high-energy visible (HEV) light can be as harmful as the damage caused by UVA and UVB light combined? HEV is a different spectrum of light than what’s emitted by the sun. It includes the light from the screens of technological devices says Dr. Julie Russak, dermatologist and founder of the Russak Dermatology Clinic.
If you’re not careful, HEV light and infrared (IR) light, commonly known as photo light, can lead to premature aging and skin damage. It’s all thanks to the blue-violet and invisible light emitted from your tablet, computer and yes, even your smartphone. The good news is that there are products to minimize the damage. Or prevent it before it happens.
Scroll through the gallery to see our favorite products that protect against blue light damage.
[ Next: Anti-Pollution Skin Care Is the Beauty Breakthrough You Never Knew You Needed ]
Here's How to Protect Against Blue Light Damage
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Volition Beauty
Screen Time Hydrating Mist, $29 at Sephora
This super-fine mist boasts marigold extract to help protect your complexion from blue light emitted from any and all screens. The ingredient is also responsible for minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. But it doesn’t stop there. Sunflower extract hydrates and nourishes, while Indian ginseng soothes stressed skin.
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Goodhabit
Rescue Me Texture Magic Exfoliating Toner, $66 at Goodhabit
A powerful yet oh-so-gentle toner that minimizes pores, evens out texture and sloughs away dead skin cells. Plus, it includes the brand’s proprietary BLU5 technology to block future signs of aging caused by blue light. Leaving you with a noticeably younger, more radiant complexion.
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Supergoop!
Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40, $34 at DermStore
Looking for protection from the sun and blue light? This sunscreen has you covered. Its oil-free formula uses red algae to block blue light and frankincense to help your skin become more resilient. It also serves as a makeup-gripping primer.
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Murad
City Skin Overnight Detox Moisturizer, $74 at Murad
Murad’s City Skin Overnight Detox Moisturizer is a favorite among editors for good reason. Its botanical blend derived from sunflower, cucumber and barley nourishes skin’s moisture barrier while you sleep to reverse pollution-related dehydration, restore youthful texture, ward off high-energy visible (HEV) lights and smooth lines and wrinkles.
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SkinCeuticals
Phloretin CF, $166 at SkinCeuticals
This vitamin C face serum not only diminishes the appearance of fine lines and discoloration, it kills environmental aggressors and premature signs of aging caused by free radicals from UVA/UVB, infrared radiation and ozone pollution.
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MAKE
Moonlight Primer, $55 at MAKE
We guarantee this lightweight primer is unlike any other primer you’ve ever experienced. Sure it smooths your skin and preps it for makeup, but it also addresses environmental stress and light-related skin damage, delivering pre-aging as well as anti-aging protection and nourishment. If you aren't sold on primers yet, you are now.
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Dr Sebagh
Supreme Day Cream, $200 at Net-a-Porter
Dr Sebagh Supreme Day Cream's fractionated melanin compound is formulated to shield skin from HEV light, but it takes things one step further. The pearlescent pigments achieve a light-reflective effect, illuminating skin for an instantly glowing complexion.
