When you were shopping for glasses to fit your prescription, did you ever come across something referred to as a "blue filer"? In fact, it is something that will be of great use to you, despite the fact that we may be under the impression that it is a scam and merely a sales strategy designed to get us to spend more money. Simply put, it is to shield your eyes from harmful direct sunlight and the blue light emitted by all types of electronic devices like smartphones and tube lights! Hence, a blue filter is not a ‘slap’ but ‘a cap’!

This blog post will explain what a blue filter is, how it can help protect your eyes, and, most importantly, how to care for your glasses while using a blue filter.

What Is A Blue Light?

Let's get an insight on blue light before we attempt to comprehend what exactly a blue filter is. Sunlight and artificial sources, including fluorescent lights, LEDs, computer screens, and smartphone screens, are all good examples of blue light. Blue light is harmful to our eyes. It is causing both visual tiredness and alterations in otherwise healthy visual functions. Infact long-term use of digital devices affects a person's eyesight  leading to a condition called "computer vision syndrome" .

As a result of the blue light that is given off by our modern digital devices, users are experiencing a number of unsettling side effects, such as:

• Watery eyes
• Dry eyes
• Itchy eyes
• Blurred vision
• Headaches
• Backaches
• Neck aches

💡 Did You Know?

Up to 90% of people who use computers report experiencing symptoms such as dry eye, blurred vision, headaches, and eye fatigue.

Applications of Blue Filter

It is a common practice to include blue filters in prescription glasses to reduce the amount of harmful ultraviolet (UV) and short-wavelength visible light entering the eyes.

Since the past year, blue-light-blocking spectacles have become increasingly fashionable. With remote learning and working due to pandemic, increased screen time has led to a surge in blue filter demand.

• Blue light filter options are now available in contact lenses. 
• You can use blue-filtered reading glasses even if you don't have a prescription.
• Anti-blue-light screen protectors are another option for blocking the harmful effects of blue light on your computer or mobile device.
• The most important thing you can do to shield your eyes from the sun is to install anti-sun protectors on your automobile windows and home windows. However, don't forget to bring your sunglasses!

Benefits of Blue Filter

Individuals who wore glasses with blue filters had major alterations that are quite beneficial

• Improved visual comfort
• Improved critical fusion frequency (CFF)
• Improved macula
• Improved colour discrimination
• Improved sleep quality

💡 Did You Know?

The circadian cycle (nature's alarm clock)  is disrupted by blue light, making it difficult to go to bed at a reasonable time.

According to research conducted at Columbia University, people who wear glasses with blue light filters may sleep for an additional fifty minutes each week. This is because the blue light-blocking filter causes the body to make more melatonin in the evening, which improves both sleep and mood.

Protect Your Eye with the 20-20-20 Rule!

Put down the phone and computer every so often. In addition to giving your eyes a break, it also protects them from blue light.

1. Take a 20-second break every 20 minutes.
2. Look away from the screen and focus on an object that is at least 20 feet away.

Other ways to protect your eyes include using dim lighting, switching to light bulbs that emit less blue light, and wearing sunglasses outside. Get an eye drop if your eyes feel dry, but if you have any doubts, see an eye doctor first!

🕵️ Check it Out!

These days, we all have a ‘blue filer’ already preinstalled on our smartphones and laptops (both apple and windows). Have a look at them right away!

Final Note

Hope the blog cleared the air that blue filter is not a slap but a cap! Are you going to protect your eyes now that you know why a blue filter is so crucial? Learn about the various options of blue filters available and more importantly which option suits you best.

So stop worrying as it can only aggravate the symptoms and consult an ophthalmologist today.

Consult an Ophthalmologist

Medically reviewed by Dr. Dhanunjay Reddy B