Published: August 31, 2025
Your eye color is one of the most unique traits you have. While many people believe eye color is permanent, the truth is that it can sometimes change due to age, health conditions, or even medications. From newborn babies to adults, eye color can shift in subtle or dramatic ways. This article explores common questions about why eye color changes, whether hazel eyes are more likely to shift, and the myths and facts surrounding eye drops and medications.
Can Eye Color Change Over Time?
Yes, eye color can change over time. Most often, this is due to the amount of melanin (pigment) in the iris. More melanin creates darker eyes, while less melanin results in lighter shades such as blue or green. Some people may notice subtle shifts in color as they age, while others see no change at all. Factors that may influence eye color include genetics, aging, hormonal changes, and medical conditions affecting the eyes.
Do Hazel Eyes Change Color?
Hazel eyes are often described as “multicolored,” blending shades of green, brown, and gold. Because of this natural mix, many people with hazel eyes report that their color seems to shift depending on lighting, clothing, or even mood. While the iris itself isn’t truly changing, the way light reflects can make hazel eyes appear greener one day and browner the next. This is normal and does not indicate any eye health problems.
Can Your Eye Color Change as You Get Older?
For some people, eye color changes with age. This is most noticeable in infants and older adults:
- Babies: Many infants are born with blue or gray eyes that gradually darken during the first year of life as melanin develops.
- Adults: As people age, pigment levels may decrease, causing lighter shades of brown or hazel. In rare cases, medical issues such as glaucoma or iris atrophy can also alter eye color.
Eye Drops That Change Your Eye Color
There are eye drops that can change eye color, but they are usually prescription medications designed to treat conditions like glaucoma. These drops, often containing prostaglandin analogs, may darken light-colored eyes, especially turning blue or green eyes to a darker brown over time. Cosmetic eye color–changing drops are also marketed in some countries, but their safety and effectiveness are controversial, and they may pose risks to your vision.
Does Latisse Change Eye Color?
Latisse, a popular product for enhancing eyelashes, can indeed cause changes in eye color. Its active ingredient (bimatoprost) is the same as in glaucoma drops. Prolonged use may increase pigment in the iris, especially in people with hazel or green eyes, leading to a permanent darkening effect. Not everyone experiences this side effect, but it’s important to be aware before using the product.
When Does Eye Color Change in Babies?
For most infants, eye color changes within the first 6 to 12 months. Babies are often born with blue or gray eyes because they lack melanin. As melanin production increases, eye color can shift to green, hazel, or brown. By age three, most children’s eye color is permanent, although small changes may still occur later in life.
What Causes Eye Color Change in Adults?
When eye color changes in adults, it may be due to natural aging or medical conditions. Causes include:
- Aging: Pigment levels in the iris may fade over time.
- Medical conditions: Conditions like Horner’s syndrome, pigmentary glaucoma, or ocular melanoma can affect eye color.
- Medications: Certain prescription eye drops may darken the iris permanently.
- Injury: Trauma to the eye can cause color changes in rare cases.
Conclusion
Eye color is determined by genetics and melanin levels, but it can sometimes change with age, health conditions, or certain medications. Hazel eyes naturally appear to shift colors, and infants often experience changes as melanin develops. In adults, drops such as glaucoma medications or products like Latisse may darken the iris. While some changes are natural and harmless, sudden or unusual changes should always be checked by an eye doctor. Understanding what affects your eye color can help you distinguish between normal variation and a potential medical issue.
