Advice! Please! What is Digital Aging and How Can You Avoid It?

Did you know that your skin be compromised just by staying at home and using your TV, computer, phone, smartwatch, or tablet? It might not be a well-recognized phrase just yet, but “digital aging” is a trending phrase. Digital aging refers to the negative impacts of excessive use of digital technologies and devices on various aspects of our well-being.

Tech is great, but it can have some negative effects:

woman with a bunch of phones

I’m not suggesting that you should close your screen right now. But sitting in front of a screen for 60 minutes or more could actually impact your skin. Even a 32-hour work week in front of a computer monitor exposes you to the same amount of harmful light energy as 20 minutes in the midday sun. In other words, seven minutes of sun exposure at 1 p.m. causes enough skin damage to give you a tan.

Beauty and Health?

Studies have found that the blue light from screens causes oxidative stress which shows up as tissue damage. This means hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, or dark spots (digital aging). The sun also emits blue light. Blue light has the highest frequency of any other light on the spectrum. this can help to damage your skin’s protective barrier. Use protective skincare such as sunscreen and products with vitamin C and antioxidants.

1. Physical Health:

stock photo edited chronic back pain digital aginga

Extended periods of sitting in front of screens can lead to a sedentary lifestyle, which is associated with health issues such as obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and muscular problems. Your smartwatch will tell you when to move. Don’t ignore it! If you don’t have a smart reminder, be conscious of how long you have been sitting and get up every hour and walk around (hopefully not just for a snack). I am personally guilty of sitting too long writing for advicesisters.com and my legs and back take a beating. We all need to take a break from screens.

2. Eye Strain and Vision Problems:

stock photo free use man with tired eyes in front of a computera

Staring at screens for prolonged periods can cause eye strain and potentially contribute to long-term vision problems. My eyes get tired and blurry from sitting in front of my computer for hours on end. However, I am suggesting something to take the strain off a little bit: follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break, and look at something 20 feet away to give your eyes a rest.

3. Sleep Disruption:

beauty sleep ADVICESISTERS SELFIE BEAUTY HACKS ARTICLE

Excessive screen time, especially before bedtime, can interfere with sleep due to the blue light emitted by screens, which suppresses the production of melatonin, a sleep-inducing hormone. To prevent this, avoid screens at least an hour before bedtime and consider using “night mode” settings on devices. It can also seriously impact intimacy.

A Shocking (but real) Story:

On the leatherandlaceadvice.com website, there is a story “Her Phone Won’t Leave Us Alone.” A man writes that his girlfriend is addicted to her phone and that she even takes it to bed with her. Could you be guilty of something similar?

4. Mental Health:

Sitting in front of screens as much as most of us: do isn’t just bad for your physical health. You already know that it can affect your mental health and well-being as well. You probably can’t unplug completely. Most of us would find that very challenging and probably impossible.

FOMO:

However, excessive use of digital devices, social media, and online interactions can contribute to feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression. It’s important to set boundaries, take regular breaks, and engage in offline activities that promote mental well-being. We all know about how social media can make us feel including FOMO (fear of missing out) and a false sense that everyone has a better life than yours.

5. Cognitive Effects:

muse meditation APP showing brain waves

Constant multitasking and information overload from digital devices can negatively impact cognitive functions like attention span, memory retention, and critical thinking. Engaging in mindfulness exercises and structured offline activities can help maintain cognitive health. While playing word games won’t help you reduce digital aging at least try to do something that expands your mind and that has some positive outcomes.

6. Digital Addiction:

edited stock photo girl frowning on her phone

Addiction to digital devices, social media, or online activities can lead to a diminished quality of life and interfere with real-world interactions. Practicing digital detoxes, setting usage limits, and seeking support if needed can help manage this.

7. Privacy and Security Concerns:

computer with privacy key

Excessive digital engagement can expose individuals to privacy breaches and security risks. You hear about data hacks all the time. It is really distressing when it happens to you. Think before you click on an email from someone you don’t know. Check the email address. It might look like it’s coming from a major retailer or someone you know. However, you will often see another name or string of numbers or letters. NOT legit at all!

What Else Can You Do to Avoid Digital Aging?

woman wearing glasses in front of computer

To avoid the potential negative impacts of extensive digital technology use, set boundaries for screen time. Consider investing in blue light filters for your or wearing blue light glasses. If you really must leave your phone on at night, try turning on “night mode” which is an option on most phones. I am taking digital aging more seriously. But it is your responsibility to more conscious and informed choices about your digital habits.