High Energy Visible light (HEV light)

High Energy Visible (HEV) light, often called blue light, refers to the high-frequency, short-wavelength (400-500 nm) portion of the visible light spectrum (Arjmandi et al., 2020, PMID: 32154666). Unlike ultraviolet radiation, HEV light penetrates deep into the skin's dermis, where it triggers the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to oxidative damage and collagen degradation (Liebel et al., 2012, PMID: 22318388). This process contributes significantly to premature skin aging and the formation of wrinkles. HEV light is also known for inducing intense and persistent hyperpigmentation, particularly in individuals with darker skin phenotypes, by stimulating melanogenesis (Mahmoud et al., 2010, PMID: 20410914). In the ocular system, chronic exposure to HEV light can reach the retina and potentially contribute to photochemical damage of retinal pigment epithelial cells (Tosini et al., 2016, PMID: 26955230). This damage is a recognized risk factor in the progression of age-related macular degeneration. While HEV light is not a biological molecule or receptor, it is a critical environmental factor addressed by topical photoprotectants. Protective agents like iron oxides reflect the light, while antioxidants such as Vitamin C or Niacinamide neutralize the resulting oxidative stress (Bernstein et al., 2021, PMID: 33247615).

Other names

Blue lightBlue-violet lightVisible blue lightNear-UV light

Protective agents against HEV light function through physical reflection or absorption of wavelengths in the 400-500 nm range, or by biochemically neutralizing the reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated upon tissue exposure (Bernstein et al., 2021, PMID: 33247615).