Our eye colour is dependent on our genes. However, these genes combine in a host of ways and that’s why there are so many different eye colour possibilities. The part of the eye which does have colour is known as the iris and it features pigmentation that is determined by a trio of genes.
Babies and Eye Colour
Green, blue, and brown are the most common eye colours. However, there are others, including hazel, gray and other combinations of tones. The eyes of babies usually appear dark blue at birth, which leaves parents wondering which permanent eye colour their babies will have! This is a fun mystery that is solved soon enough!
The final eye colour of babies is usually determined by age three. Babies whose eyes darken get darker eyes because they have melanin pigment as they get old. It’s possible for infants to have different eye colours than mom or dad. However, parents who both have brown eyes are very likely to have a brown-eyed child, as this darker colour is genetically dominant.
Green, Blue, or Brown?
The reason why green and blue eyes are rarer than brown is because darker colours are more dominant genetically. Nonetheless, a child with a blue-eyed parent and a brown-eyed parent may not end up with brown eyes.
Some eye colours aren’t combinations of parent’s eye colours. While it’s true that brown eyes are more dominant and blue eyes are more recessive (gene-wise), eye colour is more complicated than this. There are always a range of possibilities.
Currently, researchers in the Netherlands are studying adult eye colour and using DNA technology in order to help predict future eye colour. This experimental approach is working, as these researchers predict future eye colour accurately ninety percent of the time.
Can You Change Your Eye Colour?
Yes, it is possible to change your eye colour – however, the change won’t be permanent. Coloured contact lenses are the easiest way to play with eye colour. As long as you get these contacts via an eye care professional, you’ll find that coloured contacts are a safe way to change your image. Even the darkest eyes may be lightened via these contacts. There are tons of colours available, including violet, blue, green, brown and hazel.
Coloured contact lenses may be prescription-strength or non-prescription. Make the most of your eyes by requesting your preferred shade of coloured contacts from an eye care clinic. These contacts work for men and women alike.