How screen time impacts the skin, and what you can do about it!
Watching a Netflix movie or a quick check of work emails before bed has become the norm for many of us. But what many of us aren't told about our digital culture is that LED 'blue light' emitted by devices is having a serious impact on the skin. And, perhaps more significantly, overall health. But let’s back up. First, we're answering the question, 'what on earth is blue light and how does it affect the skin?'
Blue light is one of seven colours of the rainbow that makes up sunshine. As all colours of the visible light spectrum emit different wavelengths, ongoing exposure to each colour impacts the body a little differently. With a wavelength of between 415 and 455 nanos, when exposure to blue light is from the sun, the body has higher energy, increased focus and improved mood.
In short, the body loves blue light. To a point. Blue light is also emitted from LEDs found in devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and the TV. Instead of winding down for aptly named’ beauty sleep’, too much blue light from artificial sources after daylight is now known to interrupt the circadian rhythm essential for a healthy sleep cycle. Instead of winding down into a deep slumber, blue light exposure can signal to the brain that it should be energised and ready to achieve! The last thing you need before a big day in the office!
The impact of blue light on sleep
Quality sleep is essential for cellular and overall health. Here are some of the physical signs of blue light interrupting sleep patterns:
Poor cellular regeneration
Skin cells grow, divide and repair during a process called cellular mitosis. Mitosis takes place at all hours of the day, but during sleep, the process is enhanced with two identical cells doubling and replacing them with healthy cells for glowing skin. When sleep is interrupted, so is mitosis and the growth of fresh, healthy new cells is also disturbed.
Cortisol increase
The stress hormone is released when the body feels under threat. When sleep is disturbed, cortisol increases leading to inflammation, dry skin and sensitivity. Too much cortisol flowing through the body can also lead to cells thinning and increased visibility of blood vessels (or dark circles) under the eyes.
Melatonin decrease
The sleep hormone naturally builds an antioxidant defence against free radical damage caused by the environment. When sleep is disturbed, the skin’s natural defences are weakened leading to an increase in dehydration, inflammation, and the visible signs of ageing.
What can we do to counteract blue light exposure?
While it’s hard for most of us to completely avoid devices, there are some practical steps we can take to minimise blue light exposure and increase cellular health:
Set boundaries with devices
There's no denying we live in a 24/7 culture, but it’s up to the individual to set boundaries with screen time. Try to leave the mobile phone out of the bedroom where possible and switch off devices for a minimum of two hours before bed. Turn on the 'out of office' reply and avoid the temptation to scroll socials or reply to work emails past this time. Melatonin production begins at approximately 9.00 pm so avoid devices well before then to aid winding down so the skin can feel a natural benefit.
Build antioxidant protection
Antioxidant protection is essential to combat oxidative stress caused by lack of sleep due to blue light exposure. You can eat antioxidants but the most effective way to build antioxidant protection is by applying pure plant nutrients such as vitamin C and flavonoids directly to the skin.
Biologi’s NEW revolutionary serum – Bg Defence Anti-Pollution Serum
Biologi has recently released the most advanced form of defence against environmental stressors including blue light which can impact sleep and directly impact the quality of the skin. Extract of strawberry gum leaf, Bg Defence harnesses the potent power of active plant nutrients to provide a superior level of skin protection, repair and nourish the cells and strengthen the cells and give an overall glow.
Bg Defence contains a powerful combination of phytonutrients that all work together to build antioxidant protection, reduce redness and irritation, and balance the complexion. Suitable for even sensitive skin types, Biologi's revolutionary extraction system keeps nutrients active and stable, so they work on the skin as they do in their purest form.
Strawberry gum leaf extract active nutrients include
- Vitamin C
- Salicylic acid
- B group vitamins
- Protocatechuic acid
- Genistein
- Phenolic acids
- Flavanoids
Using Bg Defence Anti-Pollution Serum in a skincare routine:
The Biologi routine to counteract oxidative stress and the impact of blue light exposure couldn’t be simpler.
AM
- Wash face with Bc Refresh Cleanser
- Apply Bg Defence Anti-Pollution Serum
- Apply sunscreen and makeup
PM
- Remove makeup with a microfibre cloth
- Cleanse the face with Bc Refresh Cleanser
- Apply serum of choice
- Follow with Br Organic Rosehip Oil for extra nourishment if required
Blue light and other environmental stressors are hard to avoid but we can now provide a complete skincare routine to strengthen the skin and provide the full protection the skin needs.
Shop This*Disclaimer: Bg Defence Anti-Pollution Serum is an excellent source of antioxidants but is no replacement for sun protection. We recommend applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to protect against harmful UVA and UVB rays.