Blue Light Glasses Benefits for Students: Are Blue Light Glasses Worth It?

Published on December 20th, 2024

Blue light glasses have become a popular eyewear choice due to the influx of screen time among students, whether it’s for study or socialising. Blue light glasses are specialised eyewear designed to block a certain amount of blue light that emits from digital screens, potentially reducing eye strain and minimising sleep disruptions. But are blue light lenses worth it? Read on for blue lens glasses benefits and how they can become a potentially effective solution for ensuring students’ optimal eye health.

What are the Benefits of Blue Light Glasses for Students?

The benefits of blue light glasses for general use, by both adults and students, may include improved sleep quality and work productivity, according to a study done by Guarana, C. L., Barnes, C. and Ong, W. Some additional reported benefits of blue light glasses have included reduced eye strain and a reduction in headaches, however, the benefits are still being studied via clinical results. It is important to know that there is limited evidence to suggest that blue light is harmful to our eyes and health. In saying this, several studies have suggested that blue light-blocking glasses can help block a certain amount of blue light, which may help to improve sleep quality and work performance.

Does My Kid Need Blue Light Glasses?

Kids might need blue light glasses if they spend long hours on screens. Their screen time might be a result of studying, and/or hobbies such as gaming. Regardless of the reason, blue light glasses may help reduce eye strain that results from digital device use. Signs of eye strain include frequent blinking, headaches, dry eyes, and trouble focusing. These may indicate a need for blue light lenses if your child spends long periods looking at screens.

How to Choose the Best Blue Light Glasses for Your Kids?

To choose the best blue light glasses for your kids, you should consult an optometrist, pick glasses based on material and design, and then add a blue light filter to your desired glasses. The steps to choose the best blue light glasses for kids are listed below.

Consult an optometrist: Consult an optometrist before purchasing glasses with blue light lenses. This will ensure that your child doesn't have any underlying vision issues or eye conditions that need attention.
Pick Glasses based on material and design: Pick glasses based on material and a design your children will like. Frames made from lightweight, flexible materials such as TR90 are common for children’s glasses as they accommodate little faces and are more resistant to wear and tear. There are plenty of kids’ glasses with fun colours and patterns for them to choose from.
Add a blue light filter: Add a blue light filter to your desired kids' glasses. This can often be done at the checkout whether online or in person where you will be asked if you want a lens add-on.

Are Blue Light Glasses Effective for Reducing Eye Strain?

Blue light glasses can be effective for reducing eye strain depending on the individual. Studies are mixed on whether blue light glasses are truly effective in reducing eye strain. It can provide relief for some people, but it is ultimately up to the individual to gauge how effective blue light lenses are in reducing eye strain.

Do Blue Light Glasses Help with Headaches?

Blue light glasses may assist with headaches that can come with prolonged screen exposure. Blue light glasses may help mitigate potential headaches by filtering out blue light that emits from screens. Added antireflective coatings reduce glare, which in combination allows for lessened visual fatigue. This combination may help to alleviate oncoming headaches that can be caused by screen time.

Should I Wear Blue Light Glasses When Using My Phone?

It is a good idea to wear blue light glasses while using your phone and other devices during the day and at night. Whether you’re leaning forward to read your computer screen or scrolling on your phone, the blue light exposure can negatively affect your sleep quality and daily routine. According to the National Sleep Foundation, devices should not be looked at an hour before bed which should be a daily practice for students. However, if this is unattainable in times such as exam periods, blue light glasses can be a good protective barrier to filter out harmful blue light.

Are Blue Light Glasses Worth It for People Using Screens for a Long Time?

Blue light glasses can be worth it for people using screens for a long time. There is an additional cost to include a blue light filter to your glasses however, your child may reap the potential benefits, such as improved sleep and fewer headaches.

Do Blue Light Glasses Improve Sleep Quality?

Blue light glasses can improve sleep quality as they serve to reduce blue light exposure. Blue light may interfere with melatonin production, a hormone in your body that regulates sleep. This reduction can help your body maintain a regular circadian rhythm, which refers to the physical, mental and behavioral cycles the body undergoes in a 24-hour period.

When Should You Wear Blue Light Glasses?

You should wear blue light glasses when using screens for extended periods of time, especially in low-light conditions. This includes activities like scrolling on the computer, watching TV, playing video games, and studying, which students do frequently.

A younger person in front of a laptop screen while wearing blue light glasses.

How to Identify High-Quality Blue Light Glasses?

To identify high-quality blue glasses, it is best to investigate popular and reputable eyewear brands. Look online at reviews for eyewear stores and see if the most highly rated ones offer blue light lenses as add-ons to glasses. At Oscar Wylee, we offer a range of high-quality glasses, most of which come with the option to add blue light lenses. We have glasses designed for children and options that appeal to teens.

Can Blue Light Glasses Be Worn with Contacts?

Yes blue light glasses can be worn with contacts. Blue light glasses function to filter out blue light from digital devices independently from your contact lenses.This means they will not impede the purpose of contact lenses for vision correction.

Are Blue Light Glasses Good for Light Sensitivity?

Blue light glasses can be good for light sensitivity, particularly artificial light. By filtering out this harsh artificial light, namely from digital devices like phones, they reduce discomfort like headaches and eye strain.

Should You Wear Blue Light Glasses All Day?

Blue light glasses can be worn all day. They will be particularly helpful if you are using digital devices for the majority of the day, such as at school or in the library.

What is the Difference Between Blue Light Glasses and UV Protection?

The difference between blue light glasses and UV protection is the type of light they filter out. Blue light glasses filter out high energy visible (HEV) blue light emitted by screens. UV protection contrastingly blocks ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. While both work to protect eyes, blue light glasses focus on digital strain, while UV protection lenses guard against sun damage.