As someone who stares at a computer screen for an obscene amount of hours per day, I apply protective skincare products like it’s my damn job. Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen application is an obvious must, but I also use formulas that protect the skin from high-energy blue light—and you should, too.
Our most significant source of blue light comes from the sun, but it’s also emitted from artificial sources like your laptop screen or smartphone. Why it’s feared so intensely is that prolonged exposure can lead to premature skin aging like fine lines and wrinkles. “It can also increase melanin production in a process called melanogenesis, which means that the skin can become discolored,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Mona Gohara. “Blue light creates free radicals, which are little chemical particles that wreak cosmetic havoc in the skin by binding to and weakening collagen and elastin.”
Per Dr. Gohara, not all sunscreens protect against blue light, which is worrying given the laundry list of ways it can potentially harm your skin. “While sunscreen protects your skin from further damage, it won’t repair in the same way these blue-light protection products will,” she says. When looking at product ingredient lists, she recommends those containing iron oxides, which, in simpler terms, are pigments that help protect the skin from visible light.
Not to make things more complicated, but it’s important to note that in some very specific medical cases, blue light can be more helpful than harmful to the skin. “Blue light can be beneficial to treat acne and even precancerous spots,” says Gohara, who adds that you should always consult with your dermatologist before committing to a light therapy treatment of any kind.
Ahead, I’ve rounded up seven blue light skin-protecting skincare and makeup products you need to know about—and why.
Goodhabit launched in May 2020, and the company is built on the mission of protecting people’s skin from blue light. This innovative mask-moisturizer hybrid is one of the brand’s newest launches. It’s the perfect weekly treatment for those of you who want to combat any damage caused by staring at a screen for hours on end.
If you’re willing to splurge on top-rated skincare, these anti-pollution drops are super easy to apply and feel weightless on the skin. Press a few drops into your skin as the second to last step in your skincare routine before applying SPF. And if you haven’t tried Dr. Sturm’s Sun Drops, we highly recommend considering scooping up this set containing both bestsellers.
This tinted serum is, hands-down, my number one can’t-live-without beauty product of the moment. I love the light coverage so much that I’ve replaced it with my everyday foundation. This formula features SPF 40 coverage with Non-Nano Zinc Oxide to safely shield skin from UVA, UVB, UVC, blue light, and infrared rays. Seriously, what more could you ask for?
As told by Dr. Mona Gohara, not all sunscreens protect against blue light. This one, however, sure does, and it has nearly a perfect five-star rating across the board. It’s what I reach for when makeup (er, tinted serum) just isn’t in the cards for the day. Ensure your skin is protected with the full SPF value by dispensing it onto your skin—or easily mix it into your makeup or skincare products.
I’m loving everything PYT Beauty’s launched since its sustainability-focused rebrand, but this is my favorite. As someone who’s always reaching for face mist as a mid-day pick-me-up, I love that this one is rich with vital antioxidants.
Acaderma’s facial serums need to be in your vanity if they aren’t already. The cosmetic scientist-founded brand offers a wide variety of actives-packed formulas created to tackle specific skin concerns. For example, its daily Defense Serum is a must if you’re frequently subject to environmental stressors.
Yes, blue light-protecting makeup products exist, and this high-shine lip gloss is one of the best ones out there. It contains the plant-based pigment xanthophyll, which protects from blue light.
All products featured on GRAZIA are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, Grazia may earn an affiliate commission.
