What gives us our eye color?

Where does eye color come from?

Our eye color is a result from pigmentation of the iris. The iris surrounds the small black center of the eye (the pupil) and helps control how much light enters the eye. The iris color ranges from light blue to dark brown. We categorize eye color as blue, green/hazel, or brown. 

Although eye color is in part determined by genes, it is also determined by the amount of melanin our body stores. Eye color is correlated with the amount of melanin in the front layers of the iris. People with large amounts of melanin in the iris have brown eyes. People with much less melanin, will have blue or green eyes. 

Because people with light colored eyes have less pigment, they are at higher risk for damage and eye diseases. They will also be more sensitive to light. Overexposure to UV light can lead to macular degeneration and cataracts. 

But no matter what color your eyes are, we are all at risk for sun damage. We should always protect our eyes from the sun. 

Call Crystal Vision Optometry today and schedule an eye exam today! We can check the health of your eyes!