Are blue light glasses worth it in Nigeria?
Blue light glasses can make long screen sessions feel more comfortable for some people, especially at night, and they cost little more than regular glasses. They are not a medical treatment. Research has not shown that they prevent eye disease, and most digital eye strain comes from focusing on a screen for long periods and blinking less. They work best alongside regular screen breaks.
What blue light glasses do
Blue light glasses have lenses with a coating that filters part of the blue-violet light from phones, laptops, TVs and LED lighting. Many people say screens feel less harsh with them, particularly in the evening.
What the research says
A 2023 Cochrane review of the available studies found that blue light filtering lenses may make little or no difference to eye strain in the short term, and that the evidence on sleep was limited. Eye health organisations, including the American Academy of Ophthalmology, say the blue light from screens has not been shown to damage the eyes. In short, think of blue light glasses as a comfort choice, not a cure.
Who they suit best
- People who work on a laptop most of the day, including remote workers and office staff.
- Students who study on phones and laptops, often late at night.
- Anyone who scrolls in bed and prefers a softer, less glaring screen.
- Commuters who move between screens and strong sun, who may prefer photochromic blue cut lenses.
Habits that reduce eye strain
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something about 20 feet (6 metres) away for 20 seconds.
- Keep your screen at arm's length and slightly below eye level. A laptop stand helps with this.
- Match screen brightness to the room, and turn on night mode in the evening.
- Blink often. We blink less when we stare at screens, which dries the eyes.
When to see an eye care professional
If you get frequent headaches, blurred vision or eye pain, get your eyes tested by a qualified optometrist. You may need prescription lenses, and those can be combined with a blue light filter.
What they cost at Lens & Co
Our anti blue light glasses start from ₦5,000, and photochromic blue cut glasses start from ₦12,000. We deliver within 24 to 48 hours in Lagos and in 3 to 7 working days to other states after production.
Frequently asked questions
Do blue light glasses prevent eye damage?
There is no good evidence that they prevent eye damage, and screen blue light has not been shown to harm the eyes. People choose them for comfort.
Can I wear blue light glasses all day?
Yes. Anti blue light lenses are clear, so you can wear them indoors all day. For time outdoors too, photochromic blue cut lenses darken in the sun.
Do I need a prescription for blue light glasses?
No. You can buy them without a prescription. If you already wear prescription glasses, we can add a blue light filter to your prescription lenses through our partner opticians.
