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Did you know there is another spectrum of light other than UVA and UVB?
It's called HEV light. Your average sunscreen does not fully protect you from HEV. It's also known as near UV (NUV.)
HEV stands for high energy visible light. This high-frequency high-energy light is in the violet/blue spectrum band. With a measurable nano meter between 400 and 500
Exposure to HEV can cause long-term skin damage just a significant as UVA and UVB combined. Understanding HEV light has expose the harsh reality that we are all exposed to some form of HEV light every day of her life.
Flatscreen TVs, mobile phones, computer monitors, energy-efficient or full spectrum light bulbs, reflective surfaces like buildings, water, glass, sand or even sitting near car windows provide constant exposure to the damaging effects of HEV lights.
There may not be immediate signs of damage such as redness/burning or swelling like your average sunburn. What's most important to acknowledge is that overtime repeated exposure can lead to premature aging and even cancerous lesions.
HEV harmful effects include:
• Destruction of dermal fiber network causing wrinkles • Hyperpigmentation
• Week barrier function and fragile exterior
• Increased dryness and sensitivity
• Break down of the essential proteins causing depressed immunity
• Also (1) Has strong links to age related
macular degeneration
On a side-note regarding sunscreens – it is no longer legal to advertise sunscreens using the words sweat-proof, waterproof or to advertise sun protection factor (SPF) rating higher than 50. Even an SPF 50 will not completely block you from ultraviolet (UV) light which is why the FDA no longer allows the term sunblock. Manufacturers have been given a grace period to comply and remove the word from the packaging, but please note that it takes some time to fully comply, so just because there are a number of products out there claiming to be sunblocks it does not mean they provide superior performance over sunscreens. Much like the screen on your window some HEV, UVA and UVB rays will get through your sunscreen.
Additionally combined sunscreens such as a daily moisturizer, BB or CC creams and foundation do encourage daily use. But the first problem with customizing sunscreens is that it's illegal. Sunscreens are not cosmetics. (2) They are over the counter drugs (OTC) and regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA.) The second problem is that in order to obtain specific sun protection factor stated on the packaging, a specific amount of the product needs to be applied. Therefore sunscreen should always be applied separately on top of the moisturizer or treatment product but never blended with other products prior to application. Most people already apply less than what is needed for proper protection.
In conclusion it is most important to wear sunscreen that has a broad spectrum of UVA and UVB and antioxidant protection from free radical damage. My favorite to promote are always physical sunscreens containing Zinc and/or Titanium Dioxide (9% higher.) Lastly, further protect your self from environmental damage with Niacinamide (vitamin B3.) This amazing vitamin is a high potency antioxidants that can protect you from free radical damage.
References – 1. Remi C. "Blue light and the retina: good and bad?". Soc light Treatment Biol Rhythms. Abstracts 2005, 17:46.
2. Irena James. "Sunscreens: Myths, Controversy and Photoprotection be on UV" Dermascope the encyclopedia of a static and spa therapy.
3. Sunscreen promotes repair of ultraviolet radiation induced dermal damage, Klingman LH et al., J Invest Dermatology 1993 Aug;81 (2) 98-102