Introduction
If screens were people, we would be in a very toxic relationship by now. The only difference would be that here the red flags would look blue. Because all the digital devices we use emit high-energy visible (HEV) blue light that is harmful for our eyes. Prolonged exposure to this blue light leads to computer vision syndrome (CVS).
Although it was mostly observed among software developers, CVS is no longer a techie problem; it is everyone’s problem. According to a survey conducted by Pune’s National Institute of Opthalmology (NIO), 37% of 3000 people suffer from dry eye symptoms caused by excessive screen time.
The Dark Side of Blue Light
Since we have more screens in our homes than people, we are constantly exposed to blue light. This blue light has a dark side that can affect our mental and physical health. Here are some red flags of the omnipresent blue light.
-
Blurred vision
-
Dry eyes
-
Headache
-
Irregular sleep
-
Mood disorders
-
Visual fatigue
Hence, it is essential to protect our eyes against the negative effects of blue light from digital devices. Now before you press the panic button, let us give you a modern solution to this modern problem.
Computer Glasses for Screen Time
Gone are the days when wearing glasses meant being teased or called names. Now they protect your eyes and also get you compliments. From correcting your vision to blocking blue light, there is a pair that gives you functionality with style.
While regular glasses are used to correct vision conditions like myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism, computer glasses are designed to filter HEV blue light emitted from screens. They protect our eyes from the negative effects of blue light and reduce digital eye strain. They are also said to improve the quality of sleep by regulating the body’s circadian rhythm.
The Perfect Pair of Glasses for Long Time Computer Use
Now, just buying a pair of glasses for long time computer use isn’t enough unless they are effective and durable. So when you are looking for the perfect pair, these are the features that you need to look for
1. Blue Light Filtering Lenses
The lenses used in the computer glasses are called digital lenses. They are meant to reduce the exposure to high-energy visible (HEV) blue light emitted by screens. That is why these glasses are also called blue blockers.
2. Anti-Reflective Coating
The anti-reflecting coating is a thin, invisible layer applied to the lenses to eliminate the glare from screens. Whether you are in an endless Zoom meeting or have to go through a marathon coding session, this small feature can give your eyes the big comfort they deserve.
3. Scratch Resistant Lenses
What is the point of getting high-quality computer glasses if all you can see are scratches?
Scratch-resistant lenses ensure that your vision stays clear and your glasses look new. It is an important feature for the longevity of your glasses—something that makes you want to actually wear your glasses.
4. Durable Frames
Whether you are someone who finds their glasses deformed in a backpack or someone who wears them all day long, durability is non-negotiable. You can have the most stylish frames, but if they are not built to last, they are not worth it. Hence, it is important to have durable frames made from titanium or flexible polymers.
5. UV Protection
Indoor or outdoor doesn’t matter when your glasses are UV protected. On a hot summer when people avoid the sun, you can step out in style because your eyes are shielded from the intense rays.
So, that was all about the design and purpose of computer glasses. We got to know what computer glasses are and how they are made. Now let’s get to the why of it, or, in simple terms, the benefits of these glasses.
Benefits Of Computer Glasses
The main purpose of computer glasses is to protect our eyes from the high-energy visible (HEV) blue light. But there is more to it than what meets the eye.
1. Reduced Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS)
A super high screen time might seem harmless at first, but over time it can lead to a vision condition called CVS. Blurred vision, dry eyes, headaches, and fatigue are some of the symptoms caused by HEV blue light. Computer glasses reduce the impact of CVS by filtering out the HEV blue light, keeping our eyes calm. Hence, it is essential to wear computer glasses while using digital devices, especially in today’s digital age.
2. Better Visual Comfort And Clarity
If you have vision issues combined with an insanely high screen time, then customised computer glasses are all you need. They correct your vision condition and filter out the blue light to protect your eyes and give them the clarity and comfort they deserve.
3. Regulated Sleep Cycle
The constant exposure to blue light can affect the natural production of melatonin (a sleep hormone) in the body. This disruption makes it difficult to fall asleep and can lead to issues like mood disorders and insomnia. Computer glasses are said to reduce the impact of blue light and, as a result, improve the quality of your sleep.
Now that we know all the benefits of wearing glasses for long time computer use, let us cut to the chase and talk about,
Effectiveness of Blue light glasses
“Do blue light glasses actually work?” is one of the hottest questions in research right now. While many users swear by their benefits, the literature surrounding blue light glasses is still evolving.
-
According to a study from the University of Melbourne, there wasn’t any clinical evidence that blue light glasses reduce visual fatigue caused by excessive screen time.
-
However, computer glasses users have reported subjective improvements in visual comfort and sleep quality.
-
So while blue light glasses aren’t the ultimate shield, they can help. Especially when you keep your phone habits in check and combine that with healthy vision habits.
Healthy Vision Habits
Although computer glasses can protect your eyes from HEV blue light, you need to practice healthy vision habits to keep your eyes safe.
-
Follow the 20-20-20 rule, i.e., every 20 minutes look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
-
Position your laptop screen 26–28 inches away from your face and slightly below eye level.
-
Keep your screen brightness and contrast low.
-
Use eye drops to protect your eyes against dryness.
-
Blink more often, yes it is that simple. Simple, not easy. Blinking is something we often forget when we are using digital devices.
-
Get regular eye exams. Yes, an optometrist is a vision care expert for a reason.
Specsmakers
Specsmakers is a leading eyewear brand in India that offers style with functionality. We are renowned for being South India’s largest retail optical chain with 250+ stores. At Specsmakers, you get a wide range of stylish and affordable eyeglasses, sunglasses, and contact lenses for all age groups.
The endless aisle model makes it easy for customers to shop and drop in the cart. The website offers a 3D try-on feature, which helps the customers to make a proper decision.
Conclusion
One this is for, digital devices are here to stay and so is digital eye strain. Hence, it is important to protect our eyes from the dark side of blue light by using computer glasses and practising healthy vision habits. While the research on blue light glasses is still catching up, the users are pretty much satisfied with the effect of these glasses on visual comfort and sleep. So what are you waiting for, give your eyes the VIP treatment they deserve.
FAQs
1. What are computer glasses and how do they work?
Computer glasses are specially designe eyewear that filter out the HEV blue light emitted from digital screens. This reduces the digital eye strain and improves the sleep cycle.
2. What features should I look for in glasses for long time computer use?
-
Blue light filtering
-
Anti-reflective coating
-
Scratch resistant lenses
-
UV protection
-
Durable lightweight frames.
3. Can computer glasses be used for reading and outdoor use?
Yes, absolutely. However it depends on the lens type and the quality of your glasses. Some computer glasses offer reading power and UV protection which makes them perfect for indoor and outdoor use.
4. Are there prescription computer glasses available?
Yes, many eyewear brands offer customised computer glasses that offer both correction and protection to the eyes.
5. How long do computer glasses last?
Although it depends on the features of the eyewear, typically they last for 2 or more years.
