Is Netflix Aging Your Skin?
If you’ve been indulging in a few too many sessions of “Netflix and chill,” your skin could be aging a little faster than you might think. The high-energy visible light that cellphones and computers emit may contribute to accelerated collagen breakdown, which can cause lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin. So if you’re binge-watching your favorite show via your computer screen, you might want to give your skin a much-needed break, and here’s why.
How High-Energy Visible Light Affects Your Skin
Research has shown that visible light is harmful to your skin’s health (PLOS One). While research is still underway regarding the link between “screen time” and your skin’s health, preliminary theories are that the high-energy visible (HEV) light that we’re constantly exposed to through our phones, tablets, and computers may be just as damaging, if not more so, as the sun’s UV rays.
Initial speculation is that the HEV light emitted by these screens has the potential to penetrate the skin more deeply than UV light from the sun. And as we’re spending more and more time behind these devices, harmful HEV light could negatively alter the DNA of our skin cells, which may accelerate the aging process and increase the risk of skin diseases like melanoma (The Sun). It may be that the longer we’re spending staring at our screens, whether to wind down with Netflix or work eight-hour days, the more likely it is that we could experience negative effects on our skin.
Another study even suggests that using computers, tablets, or smartphones outdoors may reflect more UV light onto the skin than would be the case without these devices, which could also contribute to skin damage and an increased risk for skin cancer (Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology).
Screen Time Tips for Better Skin
While it’s probably not very practical to suggest that we all ditch our devices, there are a few things we can change about the way we use them to help keep our skin healthy. These include:
- Taking frequent breaks from looking at your screen, even if for only a few minutes while at work.
- Getting up and walking around, getting away from your computer or phone altogether.
- Trying an anti-glare screen that reduces HEV exposure
Professional Treatment Methods to Counteract Aging Skin
When the effects of sun damage, the aging process, and maybe a little too much screen time show up on your face, all hope isn’t lost. There are a number of professional treatment methods that can help you look and feel younger and rejuvenated. Consider talking to your dermatologist about skin care treatments like:
- Professional skin care products. Sometimes, the best defense is a good offense. When it comes to skin care, using the right professional-grade products can help to protect your skin against further damage, while also restoring a smoother complexion. Wearing a daily sunscreen is one of the best ways to keep your skin healthy and protected, especially if you’re using your computer, tablet, or smartphone outside.
Skinceuticals Physical Fusion Defense SPF 50 and Physical Matte UV Defense SPF 50 are excellent professional-grade sunscreens that contain titanium dioxide and zinc oxide to offer 100 percent UVA and UVB protection.
- Laser skin resurfacing. Professional laser treatments like Halo can help to reverse the signs of aging caused by environmental factors and the skin’s natural aging process. Halo combines deep dermal rejuvenation with epidermal renewal for comprehensive skin resurfacing results while remaining gentle on the skin.
- Injectables. When lines, wrinkles, and loss of facial volume become a cosmetic concern, injectable treatments like Botox and Juvederm can help to restore a fuller, smoother complexion. Although the results of these procedures are temporary, lasting anywhere from several months to a year, they typically take less than 20 minutes to perform, making them convenient to schedule around your busy day.
The Bottom Line
While taking a break from your favorite Netflix marathon might be one way to help keep your skin smooth and healthy, it can also be a good idea to pair great lifestyle habits with the right skin care routine. Work closely with your dermatologist or other skin care professional to help you assess your unique skin type and condition, as well as determine the best treatment options for your skin concerns.
At Acqua Blu Medical Spa in Pittsburgh and Wexford, we carry a variety of Skinceuticals skin care products in our retail boutiques to meet the unique needs of our clients. We also offer consultations and professional treatments performed by our team of experienced, knowledgeable experts.
Our board-certified dermatologist Dr. Ana Busquets has ample experience in her field and would be happy to meet with you to discuss your skin care needs and goals. Additionally, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Brian Heil is well qualified to administer injectable treatments. He is often called upon to train other physicians on the most effective Botox and Juvederm injection strategies.
If you’d like to schedule a consultation, please contact us at (724) 933-1800 and take the next step toward achieving the healthy, glowing skin you want.