Both Khurana and Garg told
Marketplace there's no research that suggests blue light filtering lenses are necessary.
Phillip Yuhas, an assistant professor of optometry at Ohio State University, agrees. He said studies have shown
people blink far less during computer use and that blue light filters have not shown any improved "visual comfort" for
digital eye strain.
Khurana said if the problem people are having is from digital eyestrain, then blue light filters are doing nothing to address the core issue and "could be doing more harm than good."
Dr. John O'Hagan, an optical radiation expert who works for Public Health England, conducted a study into blue light and found that light levels from digital devices are 'not harmful' and 'considerably below the levels that we experience outside, even in winter.' (Pascal LeBlond/CBC)
But that hasn't stopped eyeglass retailers from promoting them. One optician told
Marketplace the blue filter lens is like an "extra shield on top of your eyes to protect your eyes from harmful rays."
The lenses can be purchased with or without a prescription and range in price from $20 to more than $100.
Global sales of the lenses reached $18 million US in 2019, according to
Marketwatch.com, and are projected to exceed $27 million US by 2024.