Electronic Devices: The HEV Culprit

46 – the number of times we look at our smartphones each day, according to a survey by Deloitte.

And phones aren’t the only device we are glued to, either. We spend around 10 hours each day on our computers, smartphones and tablets, Nielsen Company audience reports.

There has been much research about the damaging effects of the blue or high-energy visible (HEV) light emitted from these devices on our vision and sleep patterns.

Now there is a small, but convincing, body of evidence suggesting that such exposure may also lead to pigment changes and accelerate the development of fine lines and wrinkles.

Here’s the deal: Exposure to HEV light impairs the skin’s natural barrier function. It doesn’t cause burning or redness. Instead, it goes deeper than the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) light, striking our collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid supplies. These are the very substances that give our skin the elastic and supple properties most associated with youth. HEV also zeros in on the pigment that gives skin, hair, and eyes their color (melanin), which likely plays a role in pigment issues that can occur with over exposure.

HEV Blockers

Many skin care companies are working feverishly to add HEV blockers to their sunscreens so they serve double duty and prevent skin cancer, wrinkling and brown spots, but ZO Skin Health is ahead of this curve, offering a full line of UV and HEV-blocking sunscreens including:

ZO Sunscreen + Primer SPF 30

This combination product shields skin from UVA/UVB, HEV light, and IR-A (infrared rays), all while smoothing skin and minimizing the look of lines and wrinkles. It can be used alone or worn under makeup for a more even, long-lasting application. It has exclusive 12-hour time-release antioxidant complex guards against photodamage. It also features a universal tint.

ZO Sun Spray SPF 50

For those who prefer a spray, this product shields skin from both UVA/UVB, HEV and IR-A via a one touch, all-angle spray system.

Benefits:

Broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection
Provides additional protection against high-energy visible light
Non-greasy, weightless feel
Exclusive 12-hour time-release antioxidant complex guards against photodamage

Prevention is key, and sunscreens that block HEV light can help protect skin from damage, but if you are already noticing brown pigment spots, ZO skin health has you covered:

The super-potent Melamin™ Skin Bleaching & Correcting Crème contains 4% hydroquinone to bleach and lighten skin. Brightenex, available in three strengths, helps even skin color and tone. It can be used as a first step in treating hyperpigmentation or a maintenance product. Another best-seller is Ossential® Brightalive Non-Retinol Skin Brightener which treats hyperpigmentation without the use of retinol and hydroquinone, making it an ideal choice for sensitive skin.

“If you are concerned about pigment changes such as melasma or brown spots on your face, check in with a dermatologist to discuss all of the available options,” says Jill Leziac, MD, of Laser Skin Solutions Jacksonville, in Jacksonville Beach, Florida. “We are fortunate that we have so many choices to offer patients today.”