HEV Protection with Iron Oxide: An Unknown Defense for the Skin

Iron oxide is an essential ingredient in skincare products that provides protection against high-energy visible light (HEV), better known as blue light, which comes from both natural sources such as the sun and artificial sources such as smartphones and computer screens. While much attention is paid to the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) light, it is important to also recognize the impact of HEV light on the skin.

What is HEV light

Visible light, which includes wavelengths from about 380 to 750 nanometers, is the part of the electromagnetic spectrum that people can perceive with the naked eye. Within this spectrum is the HEV light (high-energy visible light), also known as blue light, which specifically covers wavelengths between about 380 and 500 nanometers.

HEV light plays a crucial role in our perception of the world and also influences important biological functions, such as regulating our sleep-wake cycle. Moreover, research has shown that HEV light is also important for our overall well-being and that it can have potential effects on the skin.

Map of UV Rays

UVA Rays

UVA, or ultraviolet A rays, have a wavelength of 320 to 400 nanometers and make up about 95% of the UV radiation that reaches the Earth’s surface. These rays are present all year round and can penetrate through clouds and glass. UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin than UVB rays and play a significant role in skin aging and wrinkle formation. Prolonged exposure can also contribute to some forms of skin cancer.

UVB Rays

UVB, or ultraviolet B rays, have a shorter wavelength (from 280 to 320 nanometers) and are primarily responsible for causing sunburn. They are most intense between 10 o’clock in the morning and 4 o’clock in the afternoon during spring and summer. UVB rays play a significant role in the natural production of vitamin D in the skin, but excessive exposure can lead to skin cancer and accelerated skin aging.

Difference in Impact between Natural vs. Artificial HEV Light

Both natural and artificial blue light (HEV light) can cause oxidative stress in our skin, which means it can cause damage. The sun emits much more blue light than our electronic devices like smartphones and computers. Therefore, the damaging effects of natural blue light, especially if you spend a long time outdoors, can be more severe than the light from your devices. However, we must not forget that we often spend many hours a day looking at screens. The cumulative exposure to this artificial blue light can also be harmful. Researchers are still trying to figure out exactly how artificial HEV light affects us.

How does it affect the skin?

Oxidative stress: HEV light contributes to the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the skin. These reactive molecules can cause oxidative stress, leading to cell damage. The main targets are lipids, proteins, and DNA in the skin cells. Prolonged exposure to HEV light can result in significant damage, similar to the effects caused by UVA and UVB radiation.

Premature skin aging: The ROS induced by HEV light can accelerate the breakdown of collagen and elastin, the proteins that are essential for the structural integrity and elasticity of the skin. This leads to accelerated signs of aging, such as wrinkles, loss of firmness, and rough skin texture.

Pigmentation: Research indicates that HEV light can also affect melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin. It can lead to an overproduction of melanin, especially with prolonged exposure, resulting in hyperpigmentation. This can manifest in conditions such as melasma or aggravated sunspots.

HEV-protection for different (Fitzpatrick) skin types

The Fitzpatrick scale, developed in 1975 by Thomas Fitzpatrick as a way to classify the reaction of different skin types to ultraviolet light, ranges from type I to type VI. This system is extremely useful for dermatologists to assess risks and prescribe suitable sun protection.

Type I represents very light skin that always burns and never tans, while type VI refers to very dark skin that rarely or never burns. People with a darker skin type have more melanin in their skin, a natural pigment that offers some protection against the harmful effects of UV radiation by absorbing and dispersing it. Melanin acts as a natural sunscreen by filtering UV radiation, which reduces the cellular damage that leads to skin aging, pigmentation spots, and skin cancer.

More about People with dark skin: Dermatological features, skin conditions, and care tips

However, the protective role of melanin against HEV light is less clear. HEV light penetrates deeper into the skin than UV radiation, where it can potentially cause damage to the deeper layers of the dermis. This light can lead to oxidative stress, which contributes to skin aging and can damage the skin cells in ways similar to UVA and UVB radiation.

Although dark skin types have a natural protection against UV radiation, the higher concentration of melanin does not provide complete immunity from the effects of HEV light. This means that regardless of skin type, everyone should consider using protection against HEV light, especially if they are exposed to sunlight or screens for significant periods of time. It is a misconception that darker skin types do not require protection against HEV light; in fact, additional protection can help prevent photo-aging and other potential damage caused by HEV light.

Iron Oxide in Skincare

For effective daily protection, it is recommended to use skin care products with iron oxides. This mineral substance is particularly effective in blocking and scattering HEV light and other visible light over a broad spectrum. This is especially important for people who spend a lot of time outdoors or are exposed to digital screens for prolonged periods.

IJzeroxide not only helps to block HEV light, but also offers protection against other forms of visible light that can lead to hyperpigmentation, such as in conditions like melasma or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, also known as dark spots after acne, eczema or psoriasis. In addition, prolonged exposure to HEV light can result in accelerated signs of aging such as wrinkles and loss of skin firmness.

A study by Lyons et al. from 2021 assesses the effectiveness of tinted sunscreens for protection against ultraviolet light and other types of light such as visible light. The research emphasizes the importance of comprehensive photoprotection, as traditional sunscreens mainly provide protection against UVA and UVB radiation. For protection against visible light, sunscreens need to be visible on the skin. Tinted sunscreens provide, thanks to added iron oxide, additional protection by also blocking a part of the visible light, which can contribute to better skin health and prevention of skin aging.

Due to the broad protection that iron oxide provides, it is an essential ingredient in skincare products that are not only aimed at maintaining healthy skin, but also at effectively combating skin damage induced by HEV light.

Iconic Elements Tinted Mineral Sunscreen – SPF30

We are excited to introduce our latest innovation: Iconic Elements Tinted Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30. This product, developed after thorough dermatological research and testing in an independent laboratory, is now available. Our tinted mineral sunscreen offers excellent protection against UV and HEV radiation with an active formula comprising non-nano zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, and iron oxide.

Specially developed to meet the needs of all skin types, it is particularly beneficial for those with sensitive skin or acne. A unique feature of our sunscreen is the subtle tint provided by the iron oxide, which eliminates the typical white haze.

We do advise caution when wearing light-colored clothing.

A significant advantage is that our mineral sunscreen works superficially by providing immediate protection upon application, without penetrating the skin. Moreover, our formula is environmentally friendly, aligned with our commitment to sustainable and responsible skincare.

Choose Iconic Elements Tinted Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 for daily protection and a radiant, healthy skin.

In other words

Understanding the risks of HEV light and the available protection is essential for anyone aiming for healthy skin. By using products with iron oxide, we can effectively minimize the harmful effects of both natural and artificial blue light and protect our skin from the invisible dangers of our environment.