Energy-saving lamps trigger skin problems

Energy-saving lamps trigger skin problems, according to a study

20/11/2013

Energy-saving lamps emit UV light. In some dermatological patients this causes health problems. The energy-saving lamps are usually compact fluorescent lamps (KLL). They belong to the low-pressure mercury vapor lamps, which have a content of mercury and are therefore always in the criticism. Now there is another disadvantage: these lamps emit radiation in the UV range.

People with certain skin conditions could be endangered by this radiation. Photobiologists at the University of Dundee in Scotland have studied how certain types of single or double envelope (KLL) light-emitting diode (SLL) light-sensitive and healthy skin behave.

For the study, 200 light-sensitive patients were initially exposed to the light of a single-enveloped KLL (15 watts) for up to 30 minutes. Within 24 hours, 31% of patients developed erythema. When irradiated with light-emitting diodes (10 watts), the subjects showed no skin reactions.

The scientists came to the conclusion that UV emissions of KLL can provoke skin reactions in photosensitive persons. Double enveloped KLLs contain the risk. Even light-emitting diodes could be an alternative. (Source: Fenton L et al., Energy-saving lamps and their impact on photosensitive and normal individuals., Br J Dermatol 2013, 169: 4)

Image: Viktor Mildenberger