Why is Blue Light Bad for Eyes?

We just got back from our Bintan family getaway and I'm finding it so hard to get back into my work mode!! :P It was nice to get away from my desk and computer, and enjoy some sun, sand and sea with the family :) If you've seen some of my updates and saw that my glasses during the trip look a bit different from before, you're right {and very observant!} because I just got a new pair fitted with the latest Crizal Prevencia lenses and wore it to Bintan *grins*

Everybody knows too much UV light can cause damage to the eyes, particularly the cornea and the lens. However when we talk about bad light to our eyes, we also need to be aware of blue light, which reaches deeper into the eye and can cause long-term damage to the retina. Well, not all blue light is bad. Specifically, blue-violet light is the harmful part and cumulative exposure can also lead to the development of age-related macular degeneration {AMD} that causes vision blurring and vision loss. Eeeks!

Since I use my computer, iPad and mobile so much for work and blogging, I am pretty worried about my eye health. Electronic devices like these have drastically increased our exposure to blue light. Although the lens inside the eye and the pigment in the back of the eye offer some protection against blue light, this natural protective mechanism only lasts for a short period of exposure to the intense blue light.

Recently, Essilor developed Crizal Prevencia, the first preventive spectacle lenses in the world to offer selective protection against harmful blue light. The Crizal Prevencia lenses lets in essential light which we need to function properly, while filtering out the harmful lights that can lead to serious eye conditions. It works for dazzling outdoor blue light and indoor digital screens.

Like my Crizal Forte UV Transitions lenses {which I'm still using by the way}. Crizal Prevencia is equipped with E-SPF 25 {means the wearer is 25x more protected against UV than without any lens} to filter away harmful UV exposure from the front and back. It is very clear and there's no colour tint. Like all Crizal lenses, it also combats the usual problems eg. scratches, smudges etc. and even in the pool, the water droplets just slide off easily!

Of course, protecting my eyes against harmful blue light isn't just about getting the right pair of lenses, but it definitely helps since I use digital devices on a regular basis. Taking care of my eyes is also about eating right {more Vitamic C, Vitamin E & Omega-3 fatty acids etc.}, getting enough rest {read my tips on how to sleep better here}, and going for regular check-ups.

I'm glad Lil Pumpkin's eyesight is still pretty good but if she ever needs a pair of glasses *touch wood*, we'd definitely consider Crizal Prevencia for her lenses. Children's eyes are not developed fully to protect them against the harmful UV and blue light and are particularly vulnerable so extra care need to be given. Even if she doesn't use digital devices as much as I do, another source of blue light is energy efficient technology in the form of fluorescent light bulbs and LED lights. Most classrooms and shops use fluorescent light bulbs, so her eyes will still be at risk if unprotected.

If you're interested to check it out or get your own pair, Crizal Prevencia is available at all major optical stores island-wide now. Prices start from S$170/pair. The boy will probably get it for his next pair of specs since he needs it as much as I do haha.

P.S. Look out for my Angsana Bintan weekend getaway post coming up next week or so! 

* Disclosure: Crizal Prevencia spectacles was partially sponsored by Crizal. No monetary compensation was received, and all opinions are my own.

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