Potential impact of colors of filters used in sunglasses on the melatonin suppression process

Abstract

Background: In this article the methods for determining spectral transmittance of optical radiation in the visible waveband range through selected materials used as optical filters against solar glare were described. Material and Methods: Transmittance coefficients specified for the fraction of light passing through tested filters, taking into account the mechanism of eye adaptation to daylight and night vision and the melatonin suppression process were compared for 4 dyed sunglass filters. Results: The values of transmittance coefficients specified for wavelength bands, 380–780 nm (for visible range) and 425–560 nm (for blue light range affecting the melatonin suppression process) were determined. Conclusions: The use of sunglasses with different color filters modifies the spectral characteristics of transmittance (spectrum) of visible light reaching the eye (including blue radiation) in such a way that it may have a potential impact on the melatonin suppression process. Med Pr 2017;68(5):629–637

Keywords

• melatonin
• solar radiation
• health care workers
• transmission coefficients of optical radiation
• protective filters
• sunglasses