Kamusta, Ka-Optimalliving!

Important disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical or eye care advice.

As a freelance graphic designer and computer technician, my eyes are on a screen for most of the day, and often well into the night when deadlines pile up. Add years of night shift work on top of that, and it is no surprise my sleep and eye comfort both took a hit over time. Here is my short story regretting why I did not choose to wear blue light glasses before.

Back in 2004, when I was still working as a sales assistant and computer technician at a used computer warehouse in Mandaluyong, I used to wear eyeglasses made for my grade from an optical shop in Quiapo, Manila. Then one day I accidentally broke them after they dropped on the concrete floor of our office. I stopped wearing glasses after that. Without them, I had a hard time picking up small screws and struggled to read small markings on motherboards, RAM sticks, and other components, as well as text on bright monitor screens. I forced my eyes to work without glasses for years, not knowing I was slowly damaging them in the process.

Since I was working around computer screens every day — troubleshooting and repairing computers, installing software, and the like — I was constantly exposed to blue light and unknowingly putting my eyes at risk. And honestly, it was not entirely by choice. I was financially challenged during those years, and visiting an optometrist simply was not an option. All I could do was push through, use my eyes as best I could, and accept how things were. But to tell you the truth, it was very hard forcing my eyes to see things clearly every single day. I just got used to it — forcing my vision and relying on instinct — not realizing the damage I was doing. If only I had considered using blue light glasses back then, maybe my eyes would not have taken as much of a beating.

When I finally shifted to working from home as a VA — although I started in 2010 — I only decided to get a proper pair of prescription eyeglasses in 2012. To my surprise, they turned out to be quite expensive, not because of the frames but because of the lenses themselves. I wish I had started using blue light glasses much earlier. If I had, maybe there would have been less damage to my eyes and fewer expenses every year or two. That experience made me realize just how important blue light glasses are for everyone whose life and work depends on screens.

A quick note on transparency: I have not personally tried the CHARMRAY blue light glasses myself, and I would rather tell you that than pretend otherwise. What I can tell you is why the brand earned a spot on my Recommended Wellness Finds page, based on the science behind blue light exposure and what buyers are actually saying about it.


Why Blue Light Exposure Matters for Screen-Heavy Filipinos

Most of us, whether working in BPO, remote jobs, or just scrolling on our phones, spend hours in front of screens daily. Research on blue light exposure shows it suppresses melatonin production more strongly than other light wavelengths, and melatonin is the hormone your body needs to signal that it is time to sleep.

For remote workers and night shift employees especially, screen time often extends right up until bedtime, which means the very light meant to help us finish our tasks may also be quietly working against our sleep quality every single night.


Why CHARMRAY Earned a Spot on My Recommended List

 

Photochromic Design for Indoor and Outdoor Use

What stood out to me about CHARMRAY is the photochromic feature, meaning the lenses adjust automatically between indoor and outdoor lighting conditions. This means you would not need a separate pair for outside errands versus screen work at your desk, which makes it a genuinely practical daily-use option.

Positive Feedback on Comfort for All-Day Wear

Since these are worn for extended hours during screen work, comfort matters as much as function. Buyer reviews consistently mention the lightweight frame holding up well without the pressure marks some cheaper alternatives cause.

Suitable for the Whole Family

CHARMRAY offers styles for both men and women, which makes it a practical option if you are looking to reduce blue light exposure for your whole household, not just the working adults.

👉 I’ve included CHARMRAY blue light glasses on my Recommended Wellness Finds page if you want to check current pricing and styles on Lazada PH.


How to Build This Into Your Routine

Consider wearing blue light glasses starting in the late afternoon through your last hour of work, especially if you are finishing tasks at night. For families, encouraging kids to use theirs during evening screen time can also support a healthier household wind-down routine before bed.


What to Check Before You Buy

Look for a clear description of the blue light filtering percentage on the listing, and check reviews for comfort and durability, since hinge quality can vary between cheaper generic options. Buy from an official store or LazMall listing to ensure you are getting genuine CHARMRAY lenses.


Frequently Asked Questions about CHARMRAY Blue Light Glasses

Q1: Do blue light glasses actually help with sleep? They can help reduce blue light exposure in the hours before bed, which may support your body’s natural melatonin release. They work best as part of a broader wind-down routine, not as a standalone fix.

Q2: What does “photochromic” mean for these glasses? It means the lenses automatically darken or lighten depending on the surrounding light, allowing the same pair to work comfortably indoors and outdoors.

Q3: Can I wear these while doing actual night shift work? No. During your shift, you generally want bright light exposure to stay alert. Blue light blocking glasses are best used after your shift or in the hours before your intended sleep.

Q4: Are these glasses safe for kids to use during screen time? Yes, as long as you choose a properly fitted size. Reducing evening screen exposure can benefit children’s sleep routines as well.

Q5: Do I need a prescription to use CHARMRAY blue light glasses? No. These are non-prescription blue light filtering glasses, though prescription blue-light lens options are also available from some opticians if needed.

Conclusion: A Small Habit for Screen-Heavy Filipino Life

Whether you are a remote worker, a student, or simply glued to your phone in the evening like most of us, protecting your eyes and your sleep from excessive blue light is a small habit worth building. CHARMRAY made that habit easy enough to actually stick with in my own daily routine.

Kung buong araw ka rin sa screen, subukan mong idagdag ito sa gabi-gabi mong routine.

Ingat sa mata at sa tulog, Ka-Optimalliving. 👓

Important: I am sharing my journey and research, but I am not a doctor. Please read our full [Disclaimer] before making changes to your health routine.

You can find CHARMRAY blue light glasses and other sleep-friendly essentials on my Recommended Wellness Finds page – available on Lazada PH.

References

 

 

The Optimal Setup: Gear for Peak Performance

I’m always searching for practical wellness tools for our community. I’ve recently partnered with Kwikcare to bring you special access to their products. While I’m just beginning to explore their range myself, you can check them out here and use my referral code: ftisagun to support the blog!

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Medical Disclaimer

 

I am a student of wellness by passion—but I am not a doctor, nutritionist, or licensed medical professional. The research and practical tips shared here reflect my personal “Search, Share, and Learn” findings and are for informational and educational purposes only. Every individual and every body is unique, so what works for one “Ka-Optimalliving” might not work for another. This content does not constitute medical advice and is not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice, or treatment. Always consult with your physician or a licensed healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your health, diet, or wellness routine.

me

About Thom Sagun

“I’m a Freelance VA, Computer Technician, father, and fur-parent. After 15 years of navigating the ‘Vampire Shift’ for global clients on different platforms where I get jobs to support my family, I founded Optimal Living PH. My mission is to document the journey of reclaiming my health while working on my own terms practically and to share it with everyone. I’m a researcher and wellness student, passionate about helping fellow independent workers find a better rhythm. Let’s fix the room, fix the rhythm, and build a better life together—it’s never too late to start, Ka-Optimalliving!”