In this White Paper experts review the current state of research and development, focusing on the role of oxidative stress in retinal photoaging. They present the new lens solutions put forward by Essilor through their collaborative research with the Paris Vision Institute.

Light is a driving force of life, from the most basic function of producing cellular energy to permitting highly sophisticated processes in intelligent life forms. Essential to visual functioning, it brings an unexpected dichotomy to the eye, concomitantly conferring both beneficial and harmful light. Irreversible eye damage from noxious light exposure, which is exacerbated in our currently aging population, has become a preoccupying public health issue. The major source of light is the sun, emitting harmful ultraviolet (UV) and blue-violet light as well as beneficial blue-turquoise light. Added to this, the development of new sources of artificial light is altering our light exposure profile, increasing exposure to harmful light, with eyes increasingly subjected to potential risks of cumulative retinal damage. Studying light-induced eye damage is invaluable for designing effective light filtering solutions as part of the preventive tools armamentarium. One of the challenges facing the ophthalmic optics industry is to find the balance between protecting our eyes from noxious light while simultaneously allowing essential light to reach the retina, for both visual and non-visual functions. A better understanding of the biology behind retinal damage is essential for developing refined solutions for adequately protecting our eyes. In this White Paper we review the current state of research and development, focusing on the role of oxidative stress in retinal photoaging. We present the new lens solutions put forward by Essilor through their collaborative research with the Paris Vision Institute.