Can your eyes change color naturally? Let’s find out.

Ever wondered if your eye color can change naturally? Maybe you've heard stories from others about their eyes changing color, or you've noticed your own eyes change, and thought, wait is this even possible? Well, we hope you brought an umbrella, because today, we're diving into the fascinating world of eye colors.

So, if you have questions like do eye colors change, and if so, how do eye colors change, and even why do eye colors change, you’re in for a treat. We’ll also explore what’s up with newborn’s eye colors changing and whether your eye color changes after surgery. Let's do it.

Do eye colors change naturally?

We're starting with the big question. Can your eye color really change naturally? The short answer is yes. Your eye color can change for a variety of reasons, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Though it may not be a dramatic transformation overnight, it will likely change more subtly and gradually.

Some common reasons for eye change might be due to the following:

• Spots, nodules, or freckles on the Iris, which is the colored part of the eye. Often, these spots are harmless, but it’s always a good idea to get checked by your eye doctor if you notice any changes.
• Arcus senilis, or a hazy blue or white ring on the cornea from a build-up of a natural fatty substance called lipids. This can be common with aging and is usually harmless.
• Cataracts, which present as a milky or grey film on the outside of the eye. Cataracts are also common with aging and sometimes require surgery.
• Medications, such as prostaglandins for an eye condition called glaucoma, may darken the iris over time.

When do newborns' eye colors change?

When you were born, did you have blue or grayish-blue eyes that later changed into green or another color? That’s because when a baby is born, they haven't produced much melanin yet. Melanin is the pigment that gives us the color in our eyes, hair, and skin. Over time, as the baby grows, their eyes often change color as their bodies produce more melanin. Learn more about the fascinating world of eye colors here.

But when does this color transition happen? It can take anywhere from six months to a year or so for a baby's eye color to settle into its permanent hue, according to Healthline. So, if you're wondering what your baby's eye color is going to be, be patient–their eyes are a work in progress!

How do eye colors change?

Now, let's dig a little deeper into how eye colors change. It all boils down to melanin, the pigment we mentioned earlier. The more melanin you have in the front part of your iris (the colored part of your eye, if you needed a refresher), the darker your eye color will be. The same goes if you have less melanin, your eyes will appear lighter.

As you age, your body can produce more or less melanin in the iris, depending on your genetic makeup. This is why some people notice their eye color shifting over time. It's a natural, exciting part of growing up. (Finally, another positive to getting older besides hearing your favorite songs in the grocery stores.)

Why do eye colors change?

The reason our eye colors change can vary. Genetics plays a significant role, for a start. Your parents' eye colors can influence your own, and sometimes, your eye color can resemble that of your grandparents or other relatives.

Like we mentioned above, some medical conditions or medications can also impact eye color. While these cases are rare, they do require professional guidance, and it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Can the sun change your eye color?

Here's a question we often hear (or think ourselves): can the sun change your eye color in the same way that it can “highlight” your hair color? While sunlight can't miraculously turn your brown eyes blue, it can affect your eye color perception. When you're exposed to bright light, your pupils constrict, making your irises appear lighter. Conversely, in dim lighting, your pupils dilate, making your eyes look darker.

So, while the sun can't change your eyes enough to notice a lasting difference, it can certainly influence how they appear in different lighting conditions. But also, it goes without saying to never stare at the sun no matter how badly you want to change your eye color, or how much you were bribed to do so. Our eyes are sensitive to sunlight and can get damaged, so make sure to use polarized sun protection whenever possible.

Can surgery change your eye color?

If you’re wondering if having surgery unrelated to your eye could result in a side effect like a brand new, unexpected eye color, don’t worry. That’s not possible. However, there are specific surgeries that can be done to correct eye color, for those who want to restore their eyes after an eye condition affected them. But with all surgeries, they come with their own risks. Learn more about eye implants here.

How to change your eye color

Are there options for changing your eye color temporarily? Absolutely. Just like you may change your hair, clothes, or shoes to make a fashion statement, there are colored contact lenses that can give you a whole new look, without changing your eye color. They’re as easy as wearing regular contact lenses, and you can even get your prescription with them so you can have vision correction as a bonus.

If you're interested in trying colored contact lenses, remember to stick with a reputable seller only for the safety of your eyes. Stay away from websites and brands that you’ve never heard of. Chances are, they are lower quality and may end up irritating your eyes. (Not to be confused with the common, discomfort that often comes with wearing contacts for the first time, which usually goes away over time.)

We have plenty of safe, eye-catching colors here that you can try any time.

Summar-eyes-ing things up

Your eyes may look different depending on the light, the colors around you, and if your eyes have reached their full eye color yet. (We figure you’re likely above the age of 2 since you’re reading this, but you never know.) And if you look in the mirror and notice a subtle shift in your eye color, don’t panic. Get regular exams with your eye doctor to take care of your eye health and you’ll be well on your way.

 

We used OpenAI to help us write this.