Are Blue Light Glasses from Costco Worth It? A Pleasanton Optometrist Explains the Science Behind the Hype
Blue light glasses have become one of the hottest eye care products in recent years — and you’ll find plenty of options in optical shops, online and even Amazon . But do they actually work, or are they just another trendy accessory? As an independent optometrist at Costco in Pleasanton, CA, I hear this question from patients almost every day. Let’s break down what the science says, who might benefit, and whether Costco’s blue light glasses are worth buying.
What Exactly Is Blue Light?
Blue light is a high-energy visible light emitted by digital screens (like phones, computers, and TVs), as well as natural sunlight. We’re exposed to it constantly — especially with all the time we spend in front of screens. That’s why many people worry about how blue light might affect their eyes and vision.
Myth vs. Reality: What Blue Light Does (and Doesn’t) Do
✅ True: Blue light can contribute to digital eye strain.
When we stare at screens, we blink less and our eyes work harder to focus. This can lead to dryness, fatigue, headaches, and blurry vision. Blue light filters may help some people feel more comfortable by reducing glare and improving contrast.
❌ Myth: Blue light causes permanent eye damage.
Current research shows no strong evidence that screen-based blue light damages the retina or causes eye diseases like macular degeneration. The discomfort you feel after a long workday is more about how you use your eyes than blue light itself.
💡 Doctor’s insight: I always remind my patients — blue light glasses are a tool for comfort, not a cure-all for eye health.
Are Blue Light Glasses Worth It?
The answer depends on your symptoms and screen habits. If you spend several hours a day on devices and experience tired, achy, or dry eyes, blue light glasses may make a noticeable difference in how your eyes feel.
Here’s what many patients report when they start using them:
Less glare and eye strain during extended screen time
Reduced fatigue at the end of the workday
Better sleep quality when using screens at night (blue light can affect circadian rhythm)
However, not everyone notices a dramatic change — some people feel fine without them, especially if they follow good screen habits like the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds).
Costco Blue Light Glasses: A Smart Buy?
One of the best parts about shopping at Costco is that you can try blue light glasses without breaking the bank. They carry both non-prescription and prescription options, often for a fraction of the price of specialty eyewear brands.
💻 Affordable: Great quality and coatings at lower prices
👓 Customizable: Many prescription glasses at Costco include a built-in blue light filter as an add-on
🪩 Stylish & functional: A variety of frames that work for office, school, or home
If you’re curious about whether blue light glasses help, Costco is an excellent place to test them out without committing to high-end prices.
🩺 My Professional Take
As an optometrist, I don’t recommend blue light glasses to every patient — but for people who spend hours on digital devices and experience strain, they can be a helpful part of your eye comfort toolkit. They’re most effective when paired with healthy habits like:
Practicing the 20-20-20 rule
Adjusting screen brightness and posture
Using lubricating eye drops if your eyes feel dry
👁️🗨️ Final Word: Try Them, But Don’t Skip the Exam
Blue light glasses can make screen time more comfortable, but they’re not a substitute for a comprehensive eye exam. If you’re struggling with frequent eye strain, headaches, or blurry vision, you might need an updated prescription or a check for underlying eye issues.
📍 Book your next eye exam with Dr. Gagan Khela, independent optometrist at Costco in Pleasanton, CA. I’ll evaluate your vision needs and help you decide if blue light glasses — or other solutions — are right for you.
