Offers
Account
Menu
Favorite
Basket
One of the most fascinating facts about green eye is how its colour seems to change in different lighting conditions. It can vary from deep forest green to a bright, shimmering emerald tone. Let’s learn more about this rare eye colour in this blog.
How rare are green eyes?
Green eyes are among the rarest eye colours in the world. According to World Atlas, only about 2% of the global population have green eyes, making them an exceptional trait. Their rarity adds to their enticing charm, as people are naturally drawn to what’s uncommon and unique.
What causes green eyes?
Eye colour is primarily determined by genetics. The iris (coloured part of the eye) contains two types of melanin pigments - eumelanin and pheomelanin. These melanin pigments are the ones responsible for developing the eye colour.
Green-coloured eyes in particular are developed when the eumelanin is present in low amounts and the pheomelanin is present in moderate amounts. This combination, along with light scattering phenomenon within the iris develops the green colour.
However, the exact shade/tone of green is decided with multiple gene interactions. OCA2 and HERC2 genes are two important genes in determining eye colour. These genes control how much melanin is produced and how it’s distributed in the iris.
Did you know?
There’s actually no green pigment in green eyes. The green colour we see is the result of how light scatters within the iris.
Different shades of green eyes
There are different shades of green eyes.
- Light green: A soft, pale hue with hints of blue or grey.
- Hazel-green: A blend of green and golden or brown flecks that appear to change colour under different lighting.
- Blue green: A combination of light green shade with subtle blue tones.
- Grey green: This shade is a combination of green and grey hues that may look lighter or darker depending on the lighting.
- Yellow green: A rare type of green eye with a high amount of yellow pigment mixed with a hint of green.
Health risks associated with the green eye colour
While green eye colour is captivating, they can come with certain eye related risks. Individuals with lighter eye colours, such as green or hazel have less melanin in their iris. As melanin helps protect the eyes from harmful UV rays people with this eye colour can be more sensitive to sunlight. They could also be at a higher risk for conditions like photophobia (sensitivity to light), macular degeneration, cataracts and glaucoma.
How to protect green eyes?
Our in-house Contact Lens Optician, Tina Patel, recommends two key practices for eye health that apply to all, but those with green eyes should take extra care given their increased vulnerability to light exposure:
1. Wear sunglasses with 100% UV protection
Sunglasses can act as a barrier against harmful ultraviolet rays. They can help lower the risk of long-term eye damage caused by UV exposure and should be worn even on cloudy days.
2. Go for regular eye check-ups
Regular eye examinations are key to maintaining good long term eye health. They give your optometrist the chance to identify early signs of eye conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts and macular degeneration. Allowing them to ensure prompt management when necessary.
Popular celebrities with green eye colour
There are many celebrities who are popular for their striking green gaze. From the mysterious shades to the bright, sparkling tones, these famous personalities show just how stunning and unique green-coloured eyes can be.
1. Kate Middleton
2. Bruce Willis
3. Bella Hadid
4. Emma Stone
Glasses to complement green eyes
The right pair of glasses can enhance the beauty of green eyes. Glasses frames in colours like purple, brown and gold can help bring out the green hue more prominently. Here are a few popular frames to complement green eye colour:
How to get green eye colour?
If you don't have green eyes but wish to paint your eyes green, we have just the way - green contact lenses. Available in various tones and styles to suit different preferences, you can browse from our collection. Whether you have natural green eye colour or want to experiment with coloured contact lenses, maintaining eye health through regular check-ups and following professional advice is important to keep your eyes safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is green eye colour influenced by genetics?
A: Yes, green eye colour is primarily influenced by genetics. The exact shade/colour of the eye depends on the amount and type of melanin - eumelanin and pheomelanin in the iris.
Q: Are people with green eyes more sensitive to light?
A: Yes, people with greenish eye colour are more sensitive to light due to lower level of melanin. This reduced pigment offers less natural protection from UV rays compared to darker eye colours, making UV protected sunglasses important.
Q: How can you make green eyes stand out?
A: You can enhance the look of your eyes by applying glitter or contrasting eye shadow on your eyelids. Additionally, you can also wear fake lashes with mascara and pair them with kohl.
