If you use a computer, phone, or tablet daily, you’ve probably heard about blue light glasses — and wondered whether they’re actually worth it.
At ERC Optometry, this is one of our most common questions. Here’s the short, evidence-based answer.
What Is Blue Light?
Blue light is part of the visible light spectrum and is naturally emitted by the sun, LED lighting, and digital screens. It plays an important role in alertness and regulating our sleep–wake cycle. The concern isn’t blue light itself, but the amount of screen time many of us now have, especially later in the day.
What Are Blue Light Glasses?
Blue light glasses use special lens coatings or materials to reduce a portion of blue light from screens. They’re available with or without prescription and often look completely clear, with no obvious tint.
Do Blue Light Glasses Help?
For some people, yes — but they’re not a cure-all.
Blue light glasses may help improve comfort during prolonged screen use and may reduce eye fatigue for people who experience digital eye strain. They can also be helpful in the evening by minimizing blue light exposure that can interfere with melatonin and sleep quality.
However, research shows that most digital eye strain is actually caused by reduced blinking, prolonged near focus, and poor ergonomics — not blue light alone.
What Blue Light Glasses Don’t Do
There is no strong evidence that blue light from screens causes permanent eye damage or diseases such as macular degeneration. Blue light glasses also won’t fix an outdated prescription, dry eye disease, or poor screen habits.
Who Might Benefit Most?
You may find blue light glasses helpful if you spend several hours a day on screens, notice eye fatigue or headaches by the end of the workday, or use screens late into the evening. Students, office workers, and remote professionals often report the most benefit.
Our Professional Take
Blue light glasses can be a useful tool when paired with the right prescription, anti-reflective coatings, and healthy screen habits. They work best as part of a personalized approach — not as a one-size-fits-all solution.
During your eye exam at ERC Optometry, we look at your prescription accuracy, focusing system, dry eye symptoms, and daily screen use before making recommendations.
The Bottom Line
Blue light glasses aren’t a gimmick — but they’re not magic either. For the right person, they can improve comfort and support better screen habits. The best solution is always individualized eye care.
📍 Visit ERC Optometry in Brooklin / Whitby to find out whether blue light lenses make sense for you and your lifestyle.
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At ERC Optometry, we proudly serve patients from Brooklin, Whitby, Oshawa, Ajax, Port Perry and surrounding Durham Region communities with comprehensive, personalized eye care.
Book your annual eye exam today and take the next step toward clear, healthy vision for years to come.
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