UV lights are generally considered safe to use, as long as the wavelengths emitted by the flashlight are checked before use. Some UV lights can be dangerous if used improperly, such as “disinfecting sticks” found on the Internet, which can affect exposed skin, eyes, and mucous membranes. The FDA warns of serious, long-term risks from repeated exposure to the eyes or skin while being in the same room with UV lights, such as deadly skin cancers or long-term eye injuries, such as cataracts. UV flashlights are considered to be weak sources of UV radiation compared to direct sunlight or commercial tanning beds.
They are an incredibly effective light source for detecting a wide variety of invisible spots, as well as creating interesting images. The blue light often seen in these devices is decorative or is the visible light emitted by chemicals used to produce UVC radiation; remember that UV light itself is invisible. You should be able to check the effectiveness of UV filtering if you carry a blacklight flashlight with a fluorescent yellow pen that shines very brightly under black UV light. The most ubiquitous source of UV radiation is the Sun, which radiates everything from vacuum UV rays to the distant UVC, UVC, UVB and UVA rays. The potential for damage caused by UV rays varies greatly depending on the type of skin (light or dark), the time of exposure and the type and amount of UV light, among many other factors. When it comes to using a UV flashlight, it is important to take all necessary precautions to protect yourself from potential harm.
It is important to check the effectiveness of UV filtering before using a blacklight flashlight and to limit exposure time when using any type of UV light. By following these simple steps, you can safely use a UV flashlight for a variety of purposes.
