LEDs may provide a safe alternative for photosensitive individuals
UK researchers have compared the UV emissions given off by different types of energy saving light bulbs so that people with photosensitive skin can reduce their exposure to UV light. The team found that LED lamps give off the lowest UV levels.
The European Union has legislated that traditional incandescent bulbs should be phased out by the end of 2012 to be replaced by energy saving alternatives. All bulbs produce some UV light and there are guidelines on exposure limits for healthy individuals. However, no limits have been set for people with photosensitive skin conditions.
This lack of data inspired Leona Fenton and her colleagues from the University of Dundee to analyse the UV emissions from different types of energy saving light bulbs. ‘Many individuals are stockpiling incandescent lamps due to worry over there being no alternative that will not put their skin at risk,’ says Fenton.
Read the full article in Chemistry World
Link to journal article
Analysis of energy saving lamps for use by photosensitive individuals
L. Fenton, J. Ferguson and H. Moseley
Photochem. Photobiol. Sci., 2012, Advance Article, DOI: 10.1039/C2PP25035G, Paper
