Blue cut lenses: what they really do

Part of our guide: types of eyeglass lenses explained.

Blue cut lenses are one of the most asked-about lens options. This guide explains what they do and where the evidence is weak, so you can decide for yourself.

What is blue light?

Blue-violet light is part of visible light. The sun is the biggest source. Phone, tablet and computer screens, and LED lighting, also give off a small amount.

What blue cut lenses do

They filter part of the blue-violet light before it reaches your eye. Some have a faint tint, and many are combined with an anti-glare coating. See our blue cut lenses page for options.

What the evidence says

• Many people feel more comfortable with them on long screen days.
• Research on whether they reduce eye strain is mixed. Professional bodies such as the American Academy of Ophthalmology do not recommend blue-blocking glasses for eye strain.
• They are not a treatment, and they do not replace a correct prescription.

What really causes tired eyes at a screen

• We blink less when we look at screens, so eyes get dry.
• Focusing on something close for hours tires the focusing muscles.
• An out-of-date prescription, glare and poor lighting add to it.

Habits that help

1. Every 20 minutes, look at something about 20 feet (6 metres) away for 20 seconds.
2. Blink often, and use artificial tears if your doctor suggests them.
3. Place the screen slightly below eye level, and match its brightness to the room.
4. Get your eyes tested. If you often have headaches or tired eyes, an eye test is the right first step.

Who may like blue cut lenses

People who spend most of the day on a screen, and who want a filter on their everyday glasses. They are also available for people with no prescription, as computer glasses.

Next steps

• Compare lens options with our lens comparison.
• See how lens pricing works.
• Order prescription glasses online.