Do Eyes Change Color? What's Real and What's Light
Understand changes in appearance and when to seek an eye doctor's advice.
The short answer
In adults, a genuine eye-color change is uncommon. Lighting and pupil size can make the same eyes look different, but eye color can also change for medical or other reasons.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology advises seeing an ophthalmologist right away if you notice a distinct color change in either eye. A photo or color analysis cannot determine the cause.
Eye color in infancy
A baby's eyes can darken during the first months or years as pigment develops. Not every child's eyes follow the same timeline or change in the same way.
Eye color can change later in life too. If you notice a distinct change in either eye, see an ophthalmologist right away.
Why your eyes seem to change day to day
Several factors can change the appearance of an eye without necessarily changing the iris pigment:
- Lighting: the color and direction of light can affect appearance
- Pupil size: a larger or smaller pupil changes how much iris is visible
- Surroundings: nearby colors can affect how eye color is perceived
- Cameras: exposure and white balance can make photographs look different
When a change is real
Genuine change can occur. Some glaucoma medicines can permanently darken the iris; injury and inflammatory conditions are among other possible causes. An ophthalmologist can evaluate a change and its cause.
If you notice a distinct color change in either eye, see an ophthalmologist right away. Do not wait for a photo comparison or assume the change is harmless. If you use prescribed eye medication, discuss concerns with your clinician before changing it.
Comparing photographs
Photographs taken in similar, indirect light can help you explore how your eyes look in different images. Camera settings, exposure and image processing can still change the recorded colors. Analyzer percentages describe a photo; they cannot establish whether the iris has changed or replace an eye examination.
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Analyze My Eye Color FreeFrequently asked questions
Can eyes change color with mood?
Mood can affect pupil size, which may change how much of the iris is visible. That can alter appearance without establishing a change in iris pigment.
Do eyes get lighter or darker with age?
Eye color may darken as pigment develops in infancy. Changes can also occur later for different reasons. If you notice a distinct change in either eye, see an ophthalmologist right away rather than assuming it is due to age.
Are over-the-counter eye color-changing drops safe?
The American Academy of Ophthalmology warns that over-the-counter color-changing drops are unproven and could harm the eye. Discuss concerns with an eye-care professional.
Why are my eyes a different color in every photo?
Lighting, exposure, white balance and other camera processing can make the same eyes look different in photos. Comparing photos taken in similar indirect light may reduce some variation, but it cannot determine whether the iris itself has changed.
Research sources
- Why Are My Eyes Changing Color? (American Academy of Ophthalmology)
- Can You Change Your Eye Color Without Damaging Your Vision? (American Academy of Ophthalmology)
- Is eye color determined by genetics? (MedlinePlus Genetics)
- Heterochromia and acquired eye-color changes (MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia)