Blue Light & Blue Light Blocking Glasses: Answering Your Top Questions

Blue light exposure is a widespread concern for people who frequently use electronic devices. This type of light is emitted from electronic displays and other sources and is known for its high energy and visibility. Long-term exposure to blue light can lead to eye strain, disrupt sleep patterns, and have other detrimental effects on health. Fortunately, there are remedies available, including blue light glasses.

We’ve rounded up some of the most frequently asked questions about blue light and blue light blocking glasses to help you make an informed decision when considering purchasing them.

Blue Light Glasses FAQs

What are blue light glasses?

Blue light glasses are glasses that contain lens technology that helps block high-energy visible light or HEV, also known as “blue light.” They assist with overexposure to blue light which may improve eye fatigue and interrupted sleep.

How do I know if my blue light glasses are working?

You can determine if your blue light glasses are working by observing if they reduce eye strain and fatigue symptoms while using digital devices, such as computers, tablets, and smartphones. The level of protection from blue light will depend on the lens technology of your glasses. For instance, Zenni’s Blokz® lenses are made with an advanced blue-light-blocking polymer that is incorporated into the lens for blue light protection that won’t wear away. All Blokz® lenses block 100% UV light and nearly 100% HEV blue light up to 415-420 nm, while Blokz® Plus lenses are designed to block nearly 100% HEV blue light up to 450 nm, where digital devices peak in blue light.

How long does it take for your eyes to get used to blue light glasses?

Most of my patients get used to blue light glasses immediately. Blue light glasses have variable tinted yellow lenses (some may be tinted a deeper yellow color than others). This yellow tint may impact your color perception and should be considered for certain occupations such as graphic designers, photographers, and videographers.

Are blue light glasses bad for your eyes?

Blue light glasses are not bad for your eyes. Blue light glasses can help reduce the symptoms of eye fatigue and improve sleep quality by blocking high-energy visible (HEV) blue light. Advanced blue-light blocking technology can also protect your eyes from the harmful effects of blue light overexposure. So, wearing blue light glasses can be a beneficial and healthy option, especially for those who spend extensive amounts of time using digital devices.

Zenni’s Blokz® blue-light blocking lenses can be worn for all-day protection in front of your digital device. ll Blokz® lenses block 100% UV light and nearly 100% HEV blue light up to 415-420 nm. Blokz® Plus lenses are designed to block nearly 100% HEV blue light up to 450 nm, where digital devices peak in blue light.

Can you wear blue light glasses all day?

It is beneficial to wear your blue light glasses when working in front of any digital device. This includes your computer screen, tablet, and cell phone.

Do blue light glasses help with headaches?

Blue light glasses may help with eye fatigue that often precedes headaches. Not all headaches are related to eye fatigue. I recommend consulting with your eye doctor and/or PCP to discuss the source of your headaches.

Blue Light FAQs

What is blue light?

Light is made up of particles that travel in waves. These waves emit energy and range in length and strength. The shorter the wavelength, the higher the energy. Blue light is one of the shortest, highest-energy visible (HEV) wavelengths. Blue light is everywhere in our world. Some examples of blue light sources include the sun, televisions, computers, and cell phones.

Is blue light bad for your eyes?

Unfortunately, our eyes are not good at blocking blue light naturally. Blue light can reach the back of our eyes. Research is not conclusive at this time for the specific effects and long-term impact of HEV blue light exposure over time.

What does blue light do to your eyes?

Blue light glasses may help decrease symptoms of eye fatigue and improve sleep. It has been shown that increased exposure to blue light especially before bedtime disrupts melatonin and sleep quality. Wearing blue light glasses, especially in the evening, when using digital devices may be beneficial in improving your body’s circadian rhythm.

Buying Blue Light Glasses FAQ

What to know before buying blue light glasses?

You should know that not all blue light glasses are created equal. Lenses with an advanced blue-light blocking polymer incorporated into the lens so it can never wear away or scratch off are especially effective.

Zenni Optical’s Blokz offers this type of advanced protection. All Blokz® lenses include an anti-reflective coating to reduce glare to improve visual clarity and cosmetics. Zenni’s Blokz® product suite offers various lenses to protect your eyes indoors and out.