by
Mamisoa Andriantafika
A Cochrane organization review critically examines the usefulness of blue light filters.
Blue light filtering glasses have become a common accessory, especially for those who spend a lot of time in front of screens. However, a recent Cochrane study raises questions about their actual effectiveness.
Cochrane review published in 2023 do not show a reduction of eye strain using blue light filters.
This study examined the impact of blue light filtering glasses on eye strain and observed side effects after one month of use. With 17 studies involving 619 people in six countries, the analysis conducted so far has been substantial and extends to March 2022. However, the results are far from being in favor of their real utility. It seems that there are no short-term advantages to using blue light filtering lenses to reduce visual fatigue during computer use, compared to lenses without a filter.
The potential adverse effects associated with these glasses, although generally mild and temporary, deserve attention. Some users reported headaches, increased depressive symptoms, lowered mood, and discomfort while wearing the glasses.
These effects were similar to those observed with non-filtering lenses, suggesting that the problems might be more related to the glasses themselves than to the blue light filtering lenses.
Headaches and depressive symptoms were observed but not clearly linked to the use of blue light filters.
Other parameters need to be studied to better evaluate their impact
The studies did not focus on visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, color discrimination, discomfort glare, macular health, serum melatonin levels, or overall patient visual satisfaction.
These parameters could help better understand the actual relationship of blue light filtering glasses with the observed side effects, particularly in terms of visual quality, depression, or sleep.
The Cochrane systematic review highlights the need for high-quality research to more clearly define the effects of blue light filtering lenses on visual performance, macular health, and sleep in adults.
Until such information is available, it seems prudent to consider blue light filtering glasses with a certain skepticism and not to expect miracles in terms of reducing eye strain.