The potential role of UV and blue light from the sun, artificial lighting, and electronic devices in melanogenesis and oxidative stress

Authors: Enrique Navarrete de Gálvez, José Aguilera, Alba Solis, María Victoria de Gálvez, José Ramón de Andrés, Enrique Herrera-Ceballos, Alfonso Gago-Calderon

Year: 2022 Feb 4

Category: Dermatology

Journal: J Photochem Photobiol B

DOI: 10.1016/j.jphotobiol.2022.112405

URL: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1011134422000197

Abstract

Overview

The study examines the effects of blue light from artificial sources like LED lights and electronic devices compared to natural sunlight. The significant increase in exposure, especially during the COVID-19 lockdown, raises concerns about potential skin damage and disorders.

Findings

  • Blue light constitutes a crucial part of the radiation we are exposed to daily, with significant contributions from both natural and artificial sources.
  • Artificial blue light exposure levels, while substantially lower than those from the sun, can still accumulate over time, increasing the risk of skin hyperpigmentation, especially in sensitive individuals.
  • The study illustrates differences in the percentage of blue light emitted by various sources and discusses its role in skin pigmentation and oxidative stress.

Conclusion

Exposure to artificial blue light, though minor compared to sunlight, has discernible health implications like photoaging and hyperpigmentation over time. Special considerations are necessary for photosensitive individuals and those with high skin phototypes who are more vulnerable to the effects of blue light exposure.

UV light blue light melanogenesis oxidative stress LED technology
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