Are Black Lights Safe?

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What is a black light?

A black light is a lamp that emits long-wave ultraviolet light and very minimal visible light. A black light has a number of different names, being referred to as a UV light, Wood's lamp, blacklight or ultraviolet light and can be used in a number of different ways such as; for artistic and decorative effects, assisting in diagnostics in many medicine arenas, effective detection of counterfeit money and even identifying leaks in refrigerators and air conditioning systems. 

Here we will discuss the FUN uses for black lights such hosting awesome glow parties and offer information around black light safety and quality standards that you should consider when purchasing black lights for your own recreational use. This article will discuss recommendations on the basis that the use of black lights will be used in either a party environment, for one off events or for short periods of time. We recommend that if you were looking to set up black lights as a more permanent fixture (i.e. In a bar, bowling alley or gym setting), that you do further research around the safety standards and requirements for this type of black light use. 

Are UV black lights bad for your eyes?

Most black lights emit UV light that is in the long-wave UV-A range, which is the safest of all of the wavelengths.

Keeping in mind that the use of black lights that we are discussing here is for recreational purposes, one off or short term events only; such as black light glow parties and other glow events. Therefore in this situations, you are very unlikely to be exposed to the UV-A light long enough to cause any negative eye impact. 

UV-A light has the lowest risk of any eye damage, unless you stare at the source for prolonged periods of time, unprotected. Therefore, we do not recommend looking directly into a UV LED black light when it is turned on for an extended period of time, as even though the black light may not look bright, what you are seeing is just a small fraction of the actual UV light that is being emitted. 

If you are worried at all, especially in cases of prolonged exposure, you can always don a pair of sweet neon framed sunglasses to add to your black light glow party outfit and to block out any UV (or worries) that you may have. However we really do not see this as a necessary thing for one off parties. 

Are UV blacklights safe for your skin?

UV-A light is used in our Glowave black lights as UV-A light is safer than UV-B or UV-C lights. This is because it is in the closest region of visible light, which is the least harmful. The exposure from UV-A black lights is typically well below recognized safe limits. If however, long periods of time is spent being exposed to direct UV-A light; such as tanning beds, some studies suggest that it can be linked to cause skin damage. 

This is highly unlikely in the short term, one off black light party scenarios. If you are worried you can always wear a neon colored or white long sleeved shirt and long pants to your black light event. 

Is blacklight harmful to humans?

For glow parties, UV-A black lights used are generally safe for short-term exposure. However, prolonged or direct exposure to UV light should be avoided to prevent potential eye and skin irritation.

Other Types of Black Lights:

  • UV-B Black Lights: These should be avoided as they emit UVB radiation, which can cause sunburn and significantly increase the risk of skin cancer.
  • UV-C Black Lights: The most dangerous type, UV-C radiation can cause severe skin burns and eye damage. Fortunately, UV-C is not typically encountered in everyday settings.

Stick with UV-A black lights for glow parties, and you'll have a safe and enjoyable experience!

Buy Black Lights

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GLOWAVE BLACK LIGHT Glow Party Kit!

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How to set up safe blacklights for parties

Which black lights are the safest?

LED black light strips are the safest choice for glow parties and other events for several reasons:

  • No Breaking Glass: Unlike traditional fluorescent black lights, LED strips don't use fragile glass tubes, reducing the risk of injury from breakage.
  • No Mercury: LED black lights are mercury-free, making them safer for the environment and for human health.
  • Energy Efficiency: LEDs consume less power, which means they stay cooler and are safer to handle and install.
  • Durability: LED strips are generally more robust and long-lasting, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
  • Consistent Light Output: They provide consistent and reliable UV-A light without the flickering often associated with fluorescent lights.

By choosing LED black light strips, you ensure a safer, more reliable, and environmentally friendly option for your events.

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