How Can We Protect Ourselves From Infrared Radiation?

Infrared Radiation, IR, is a ray of light that is emitted by a source and which is considered to be non-thermal. This radiation is capable of penetrating the skin and causing damage. It may lead to conditions such as cataracts, melasma and scotoma. Luckily, we can take steps to protect ourselves and take IR protection seriously.

Eyes

It is a known fact that infrared radiation can be harmful to the eyes. IR light has been found to cause a variety of eye pathologies, including corneal opacities and cataracts.

The first attempt to explain the relationship between IR and cataracts was published in 1912. It was concluded that IR exposure may contribute to cataract formation. However, the interaction mechanisms involved in IR actuation were still unclear.

A recent study performed in rabbits investigated the effect of IR on the lens membrane. The crystalline lens of a rabbit was exposed to various doses of IR for 5 and 10 minutes. The total protein content was estimated and the FTIR spectra of soluble lens proteins were recorded.

The soluble lens protein backbone structure was significantly altered after IR exposure. The main protein secondary structure was dominated by b-turns. The amide I and amide II bands showed significant fold changes, which is indicative of protein folding.

Skin

Infrared radiation is invisible to the human eye, but can be a source of damage to the skin. It can increase the risk of photo-aging and cancer. Its wavelength is 750 nm to 1 mm, and it penetrates deeper into the skin than UVA and UVB rays.

The human body has a natural antioxidant system that is able to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. However, repeated exposure to infrared radiation can lead to inflammation, dehydration, and collagen and elastin degradation. This can accelerate skin aging, cause wrinkles, and increase the risk of skin cancer.

The human body can be protected from UV and IR radiation by wearing a wristwatch. It is also a good idea to apply sunscreens. Some of the sunscreens available on the market today have infrared protection.

Melasma

Melasma is a skin disorder that is caused by overproduction of pigment. The condition can affect anyone at any time. However, its prevalence is highest among women. Fortunately, treatment options are available.

Melasma can be treated with laser and light therapy. The main goal of treatment is to decrease the amount of melanin in the affected area. If you are interested in learning more about this condition, consult your dermatologist.

In addition to the lasers and lights, you can also consider topical products. They can be used to increase the longevity of the lightning effect and reduce the risk of rebound hyperpigmentation.

The FEMMUE Lumiere Vital C Serum is a skincare product that contains safflower seed oil, UV-resistant vitamin C, and a variety of anti-inflammatory ingredients. It is safe and effective for pregnant and nursing mothers.

Cataracts

When IR energy is absorbed by the lens, the heat is transferred to the eye and creates a cataract. The effect is different from that produced by ultraviolet (UV) exposure. The wavelength of IR is shorter, and it only penetrates to a certain depth within the cornea.

It is believed that IR-induced opacities are caused by direct absorption by the crystalline lens. However, recent experimental data have ruled out the photochemical effect of 1090 nm IR in the lens.

The thermal effects of IR exposure may damage the retina, choroid, and cornea. The aqueous humour of the eye may increase, which could lead to cataract formation.

A first attempt to explain IR-induced cataracts was published in 1912. The authors proposed a photochemical process as the cause of cataract formation.

Scotoma

Scotomas are like blind spots; they occur in both the central and peripheral vision. While peripheral scotomas do not cause much trouble in daily life, they can prove to be a real hindrance when it comes to using a smartphone or navigating a dark room. A scotoma is not something you want to have to deal with on a regular basis. Fortunately, there are some ways to protect your sanity.

Among the many possible treatments, sclerotherapy is one of the most effective. The only caveat is that it is not a cheap treatment. A scotoma can last for several years, if not for the entirety of a person’s lifespan. To prevent a scotoma from reoccurring, it is important to prevent the condition from occurring in the first place. This can be done by a series of laser treatments or a combination of laser and sclerotherapy.