Relative Efficacy of blue light blocking products

Background: Due to the extensive role computers, smartphones, and tablets play in the lives of most Americans, the effect of prolonged exposure to electronic devices on the human visual system is currently a topic of great importance. In particular, the effect of blue light on the human eye has sparked debate in the scientific community. Many technologies, including lenses, screen covers, and computer software, have been developed in an effort to minimize the transmission of potentially harmful short wavelength light into the user’s eyes. The goal of this study was to determine which devices are the most effective in blocking the wavelengths of visible light that have been shown to be most harmful to human vision (380 nm – 460 nm) under various working conditions. Methods: Using the Sekonic Spectromaster C-700, we measured the wavelengths of light emitted from a computer screen and transmitted through eight different products that claim to minimize transmission of blue light. This was conducted using three different light sources, simulating three unique working environments: 1) no additional light source, 2) industrial fluorescent lighting, and 3) natural sunlight. Results: When comparing the performance of each product in its ability to block the transmission of blue light across various lighting conditions, no product performed consistently well or poorly. Conclusions: Since no consistent trends could be drawn from the data results, it can be concluded that despite the use of products that claim to block blue light, blue light will still enter the eye under certain lighting conditions. The next step would be to examine products that sit directly upon or within the eye, which would minimize the amount of unwanted stray light that enters the eye.