Optical Brighteners

Optical brighteners, also known as optical brightening agents (OBAs), are chemicals added to products like laundry detergents or paper to make them appear whiter and brighter. They work by absorbing ultraviolet light and emitting visible blue light, which can counteract yellowish tones, making items look cleaner and more vibrant. While they are effective in enhancing aesthetics, these brighteners are not actual whiteners; instead, they modify how we perceive color. Optical brighteners are often found in fabrics, papers, and cleaners, and they help improve visual appeal in many consumer products.