Blue light plays an important role in our daily lives. It is essential for the proper functioning of the body during the day – helping us stay focused, alert, and in a good mood. Studies show that it improves concentration, reaction times, and even boosts productivity.¹ However, excessive exposure, especially in the evening and from artificial sources (such as smartphones, monitors, and TV screens), can have the opposite effect – disturbing sleep cycles, straining vision, and negatively affecting overall well-being. 

In today’s digital era, avoiding blue light is practically impossible. We work, study, and relax in front of screens for hours daily. That’s why technology manufacturers are actively looking for solutions to minimize its negative impact, without compromising display quality. How does OLED technology compare to traditional displays in this regard? Let’s find out. 

Blue light and its nature 

Before the invention of artificial lighting, the sun and light of fire were our only sources of natural light. Blue wavelengths, naturally present in daylight, helped regulate our circadian rhythm, keeping us energized and awake. 

However, in the modern world, artificial lighting and electronic devices expose us to blue light long after sunset. While beneficial during the day, this type of light can become disruptive in the evening – delaying melatonin production, interfering with sleep, and putting strain on the eyes. 

“Exposure to light suppresses the secretion of melatonin, a hormone that influences circadian rhythms. Even dim light can interfere with a person’s circadian rhythm and melatonin secretion. A mere eight lux—a level of brightness exceeded by most table lamps and about twice that of a night light—has an effect. Light at night is part of the reason so many people don’t get enough sleep, and researchers have linked short sleep to increased risk for depression, as well as diabetes and cardiovascular problems.”²

OLED vs. LCD/LED in the context of blue light 

OLED technology is often regarded as healthier for the eyes compared to traditional LCD/LED ones, particularly when it comes to limiting the harmful impact of blue light. The difference lies primarily in how these two types of displays produce light. 

LCD panels rely on powerful backlighting that shines constantly across the entire screen. Various sources indicate that between 65% and 80% of this light comes from the blue spectrum. By contrast, OLED panels work in a completely different way: each pixel generates its own light. This allows not only to enhance picture quality, but also reduce the proportion of blue light.

Lower Blue Light Emission 

OLED screensdisplays emit far less blue light than their LCD counterparts. Independent studies and industry tests have shown that OLEDs can release up to three times less blue light compared to LCDs³. What’s more, OLED lighting can produce as little as 10% of the blue light emitted by conventional LEDs, while maintaining the same brightness and color temperature⁴. 

Positive Impact on Eye Health and Sleep 

Excessive blue light exposure is linked to digital eye strain, potential retinal stress, and the suppression of melatonin – the hormone responsible for regulating sleep. By lowering blue light levels, OLED displays help reduce these risks, making them more eye-friendly during prolonged use or evening viewing. 

In fact, research supports these benefits. In July 2024, LG Display in collaboration with Kookmin University carried out a study to measure how different TV technologies affect the human body. Forty adults took part, alternating between watching LCD and OLED televisions for two hours at night. After each session, melatonin levels were measured. The results were striking: melatonin levels dropped by 2.7% after watching LCD TVs, but increased by 8.1% after watching OLED TVs ⁶. 

Self-Emissive Pixels for Greater Control

Because every pixel in an OLED screen produces its own light, the display can regulate brightness with exceptional precision. This makes it possible to achieve deep, true blacks without relying on a strong, always-on backlight. As a result, users are exposed to less unnecessary blue light, while also enjoying superior picture quality. 

Blue light in artificial lighting 

Blue light is also present in artificial lighting. Standard wolfram-based light bulbs emit small amounts of it. However, the problem arises with new types of energy-efficient lighting, such as compact fluorescent lamps and LEDs. Although they have a less harmful impact on the environment, they unfortunately generate much more blue light, which has the same negative effects as displays regardless of the source. 

The simplest solution to reduce it is to use dim red lights as night lighting. Red light disturbs the circadian rhythm to a lesser extent and inhibits the secretion of melatonin.7 

Another solution to reduce blue light emissions is to use special coatings and filters in energy-saving light bulbs, which neutralize blue light. Interesting option is also a human centric lighting, which aims to replicate natural light. Using special lighting fixtures and control systems, it is possible to adjust the level of light emitted (from dimming to brightening) as well as its color. As a result, it can be tailored precisely to the user’s needs and mimic closely the natural ⁸⁹ 

Summary 

When it comes to reducing the harmful effects of blue light, OLED technology clearly outperforms LCD/LED. It offers lower blue light emission, healthier sleep outcomes, and greater visual comfort – all without compromising picture quality. For people who spend long hours in front of screens, especially in the evening, OLED displays can make a noticeable difference in eye comfort and overall well-being. 

That said, it’s important to remember that moderation is still key. Any screen or artificial lighting, no matter how advanced, can cause fatigue if used excessively. But with this knowledge, users are at least one step closer to a healthier balance between technology and everyday life.

¹ https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0031938424003068

² https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/blue-light-has-a-dark-side 

³ https://www.oled-info.com/oleds-emit-less-third-blue-light-lcds

⁴ https://rewa.tech/oled-vs-led-impact-on-eye-health-explored/