
The ideal black light has the shortest wavelength possible without going below the dangerous 320 nm threshold and has minimal visible light (above 400 nm). Medium and short wave ultraviolet light can lead to eye damage. Long wave ultraviolet (UVA) used for true black lights is relatively safe on the eyes.

400 - 320 nm UVA, Long Wave, Black Light.The ultraviolet spectrum is broken down into subcategories depending on wavelength: Ultraviolet light will cause fluorescent or phosphorescent pigments to fluoresce, emitting visible light. The color above red is called infra-red and the color below violet is called ultraviolet. However, other invisible “colors” exist above and below this spectrum. Unlike some insects, humans can only view the spectrum from red to violet. The colors visible to humans are determined by the wavelength of light energy. This article will discuss various bulbs and give you the information to choose an efficient black light for your project. This problem has dramatically increased recently with the advent of falsely labeled UV LED’s.


Unfortunately, manufacturers use the words “Black Light” and “UV” carelessly and confusion follows. Black lights are by far the most efficient way to charge glow in the dark paint and it is mandatory for fluorescent UV Reactive paint.Īnyone using phosphorescent or fluorescent paint and wants the best results possible will also need to understand black lights and the long wave ultraviolet light they emit.
