Migraine Glasses for Light Sensitivity | Avulux at Loom Optical
At Loom Optical, we’re committed to offering meaningful, evidence-informed solutions that support both vision and wellbeing. One such innovation now available at our Torquay practice is Avulux® Migraine & Light Sensitivity Lenses — the first clinically tested lenses designed specifically for people experiencing migraine and light-triggered discomfort.
Migraine: More Than Just a Headache
Migraine is a neurological condition that affects an estimated 4.9 million Australians. While often misunderstood as simply a severe headache, migraine is a complex condition with symptoms that may include nausea, sensory disturbances, and significant light sensitivity.
Currently, there is no cure for migraine. For many, managing the condition involves avoiding known triggers — including certain types of light — alongside medications or lifestyle strategies.
Light and Migraine: What the Research Shows
In recent years, studies have identified a relationship between specific wavelengths of light and migraine pain. In particular, light in the blue, amber, white, and red spectrum has been shown to aggravate symptoms, while narrow-band green light may reduce pain intensity.
This is supported by research from Harvard Medical School and others, where researchers identified that specific light-sensitive retinal cells — called ipRGCs (intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells) — release a photopigment called melanopsin when stimulated by certain wavelengths. This response activates brain regions involved in pain processing in people with migraine (Noseda et al., Nat Neurosci, 2010).
A subsequent 2016 Harvard study put subjects with migraine in a dark room and exposed them to varying colours of light. White, blue, amber and red light increased headache intensity. Low intensity Green light decreased headache pain intensity (Noseda et al., Brain, 2016).
© The Author (2016). Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Guarantors of Brain.
What Is Avulux?
Avulux® Migraine & Light Sensitivity Lenses are designed in alignment with this emerging research. Unlike traditional tinted or blue-light glasses, Avulux lenses use a patented multi-band filter to:
Block up to 97% of blue, amber, and red light,
While transmitting up to 70% of calming green light.
This selective light filtration is intended to reduce the likelihood of light-triggered symptoms, offering non-pharmaceutical support for those living with migraine or light sensitivity.
Clinical Evidence
In 2020, a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted to compare Avulux lenses with placebo lenses (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04341298). This study involved participants with episodic migraine and used a standard pain rating scale over a three-week period.
The findings suggest that Avulux lenses were both statistically and clinically more effective than clear placebo lenses when used early in a migraine episode and without concurrent medication.
While the findings are promising and individual results may vary, it’s important to note that this study has not yet been published in a peer-reviewed journal. The data is based on a clinical summary available through Avulux.
Who Might Benefit?
Avulux lenses may be suitable for:
Individuals with episodic or chronic migraine
People who experience light-triggered discomfort or photophobia
Those sensitive to screen time, fluorescent lighting, or glare
Some people wear Avulux lenses throughout the day, while others use them during known triggers or at the onset of symptoms. Reported benefits include increased comfort, reduced need for medication, and greater ease returning to daily activities.
Now Available at Loom Optical
As an Authorised Avulux Provider, Loom Optical offers individual consultation and lens fitting for Avulux. Optometrist Kirsten Bolton has experience in managing light sensitivity and will take the time to assess whether Avulux may be appropriate for your needs.
We’re proud to provide solutions that help you see clearly and live more comfortably.
