Research Casts Doubt on Effectiveness of Blue Light Blocking Glasses for Eye Strain and Sleep Quality

Blue light blocking glasses, which gained popularity as a supposed shield against screen-related eye strain, might not provide the anticipated benefits for eye health, according to a recent analysis.

In a comprehensive study published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews journal, researchers meticulously examined data from 17 randomized controlled trials – considered the most reliable evidence available. The results of their investigation suggest that glasses designed to filter out blue light may not significantly alleviate eye strain or enhance sleep quality.

Laura Downie, a senior author of the study and associate professor at the University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, commented on their findings, stating, “We found there may be no short-term advantages with using blue-light filtering spectacle lenses to reduce visual fatigue associated with computer use, compared to non-blue-light filtering lenses.” Downie further emphasized the uncertainty about whether these glasses influence vision quality, sleep-related outcomes, or retinal health in the long run. She advised consumers to consider these findings when contemplating the purchase of such eyewear.

The examined studies varied in scope and duration, ranging from studies involving as few as five participants to others with up to 156 participants, conducted over periods spanning from less than a day to five weeks. The researchers highlighted the necessity for further research with extended follow-up periods and a broader range of participants to comprehensively assess any potential effects.

Dr. Sumeer Singh, a postdoctoral research fellow in the Downie Laboratory and one of the study’s authors, recommended future research to explore how efficacy and safety outcomes might differ among diverse groups and with different types of lenses.

The blue light emitted by computer screens and smartphones does stimulate the eyes, potentially leading to sleep disturbances. During the pandemic, healthcare professionals reported an increase in vision-related issues linked to prolonged screen usage, including eye strain, headaches, and dry eyes.

As concerns about the impact of increased screen time mounted, blue light blocking glasses and filters emerged as potential solutions. However, skepticism about their effectiveness has been voiced by experts in the field.

Optometrist Dr. Robert Johnson expressed doubts about the efficacy of blue light blockers, stating that “This blue-blocking situation has been bogus basically from the get-go. … It’s one of the absurdities that come from advertising.”

While these glasses might not deliver as promised, they are unlikely to cause harm. Dr. Johnson noted that they “cause absolutely no damage.”

Rather than investing in specialized glasses, experts advise incorporating regular screen breaks into one’s routine. Dr. Christopher Starr, an ophthalmologist at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York, emphasized the importance of taking breaks from screen time, suggesting that the “20-20-20 rule” – looking away from the screen at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes – can help relax the focusing mechanism of the eyes and improve comfort.