Betterlab’s anti-myopia glasses

Brooklyn-based start-up Betterlab is developing glasses to prevent myopia progression using artificial light.

Inspired by studies demonstrating how regular exposure to sunlight promotes healthy eye development, Betterlab’s lead strategist Todd Bracher, a former NASA scientist, set out to create a more fun but effective myopia treatment. A photoluminescent substance has been implanted in the edge of the eyewear’s frame to transmit 480nm-wavelength (blue) light to the eye, replicating the benefits of being in the sun even if the user is at home or working at the desk, said Bracher. Bathing the wearer in a glow without affecting what they see, the light-emitting eyewear activates retinal dopamine release, thus creating a positive effect on reducing axial elongation of the eye, he explained.

After just one minute of sunlight or strong lamplight, the glasses can glow for 25 minutes. Experiencing the wavelength twice a day could be enough to prevent myopia development, said Bracher, who is now seeking a patent for the design.