ZEISS, one of the most notable names in optical innovation, has introduced a cutting-edge solution to address digital eye strain and protect against harmful blue light.

ZEISS BlueGuard is a new generation of blue light blocking lenses; it addresses today’s technology and digital media usage in the “new normal”. The blue light blocking properties are incorporated into the lens material with a specialised coating developed by ZEISS. As a result, ZEISS BlueGuard Lenses provide excellent lens clarity and block up to 40% of the potentially harmful and irritating blue light in the wavelength between 400 and 455 nm, known to be linked to digital eye strain.

ZEISS BlueGuard blocks a part of the blue light spectrum that could exacerbate symptoms of digital eye strain, including tired eyes, blurred vision, sleep disturbances and dry or irritated eyes. The positive properties of blue light, ranging from about 455 to 500 nm, remain unaffected.

“While the scientific discussion about blue light exposures continues, ZEISS BlueGuard incorporates the latest organic-chemical technology to make the blue light blocking an integral part of the chemical structure of the lens material. Built on the foundation of our UVProtect technology, ZEISS BlueGuard additionally offers full UV protection up to 400 nm,” said Bryan Rossi, President at Carl Zeiss Vision Canada Inc. “By reducing glare, our new material-based approach contributes to preventing eye strain while providing comfortable, relaxed vision and increased contrast.”

ZEISS BlueGuard is designed for all-day use and offers an additional comfort aspect that reduces eye strain and allows relaxed working conditions.

As blue light blocking properties are now incorporated into the lens material, ZEISS BlueGuard Lenses come standard with ZEISS DuraVision Platinum UV. This premium anti-reflection coating with its subtle blue residual reflection ensures the wearer will not become annoyed by irritating reflections, and the eyes are visible behind the lenses.

Compared to the current blue light coating ZEISS DuraVision BlueProtect, the reflections of digital blue light are reduced by up to 50%. The result is high lens clarity with significantly lower visible reflections of digital blue light.

What is ZEISS BlueGuard?

ZEISS BlueGuard Lenses are the latest innovation from ZEISS in blue light protection. Designed for our “new normal” world, it has resulted in spending more time exposed to artificial light sources that emit a relatively high intensity of blue light. Using the latest organic-chemical technology, ZEISS BlueGuard Lenses are an “immaterial” solution, blocking up to 40% of potentially harmful blue light in the wavelength between 400 and 455 nanometers (nm). 1 Based on proven UVProtect technology, ZEISS BlueGuard Lenses additionally ensure full protection from ultraviolet radiation (UV) up to 400 nm.

Where is the difference between ZEISS DuraVision BlueProtect?

Blue light blocking coatings are designed to block blue light by reflecting it, which is why its residual reflections are higher. The reflection on the lens surface can cause cosmetic irritation to observers and may distract the wearer, creating visual disturbance. Especially indoors, displays or light-emitting diodes (LED) are the main sources of illumination. These reflections also tend to be more visible. As blue light blocking properties are incorporated into the lens material, ZEISS BlueGuard Lenses come standard with DuraVision Platinum UV anti-reflective coating. This premium anti-reflection coating, with its subtle blue residual reflection, ensures the wearer won't become annoyed by irritating reflections.

Compared to the current blue light coating ZEISS DuraVision BlueProtect offers, the reflections of digital blue light are reduced by up to 50%. This is more relevant today as we spend more time in front of digital devices. For example, when participating in video calls and online meetings.

How does ZEISS BlueGuard address digital eye strain?

Extensive exposure to artificial blue light can lead to symptoms like blurred vision and visual discomfort, which can also play a role in the perception of digital eye strain. Digital devices and LEDs emit a disproportionally high amount of blue light compared to previous light sources, such as incandescent bulbs. Shorter wavelength blue light can induce opto-physical effects while entering the eye on its way through the ocular media to the retina. The two main effects are wavelength-dependent light scatter and longitudinal chromatic aberration. ZEISS BlueGuard Lenses are designed to counteract these negative effects of blue light and thus reduce digital visual stress. In doing so, they master the complex challenge of balancing the positive and negative characteristics of blue light by, on the one hand, blocking up to 40 per cent of the blue-violet spectrum between 400 and 455 nm and, on the other hand, leaving the positive effects of higher wavelength blue light in a range of 455 to 500 nm unaffected.

Key Features and Benefits of ZEISS BlueGuard:

• Selective Blue Light Filtration: ZEISS BlueGuard employs selective filtering to block a significant portion of blue-violet light emitted by screens, minimizing the potential risk of digital eye strain and sleep disruption.

• Preservation of Natural Light: While reducing harmful blue-violet light, ZEISS BlueGuard ensures that essential natural light wavelengths still reach your eyes, maintaining the balance necessary for well-being.

• Enhanced Clarity: The anti-reflective properties of ZEISS BlueGuard not only reduce glare but also contribute to enhanced visual clarity, making screen time more comfortable and enjoyable.

• Versatility: ZEISS BlueGuard can be incorporated into various types of lenses, including single-vision, progressive, and prescription lenses, catering to different visual needs and preferences.

• Digital Well-being: By minimizing blue-violet light exposure, ZEISS BlueGuard supports long-term digital well-being, helping to mitigate potential risks associated with excessive screen time.

• UV Protection: In addition to blue light filtration, ZEISS BlueGuard offers UV protection, safeguarding your eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays, both indoors and outdoors.

By choosing ZEISS BlueGuard, you're committing to balanced visual experiences and the long-term well-being of your eyes. ZEISS BlueGuard exemplifies ZEISS's dedication to optical innovation. With its selective blue light filtration, UV protection, and visual clarity enhancement, ZEISS BlueGuard offers a holistic approach to digital eye strain and overall eye health. As screens continue to shape our lives, investing in technologies like ZEISS BlueGuard becomes paramount for maintaining visual comfort and safeguarding our eyes against the challenges of the digital age.