Eye color changes, particularly in infants, typically occur between 6 and 9 months of age, influenced by melanin development.
Determining the exact age when eye color changes is complete can vary, especially in infants. The primary factor influencing this change is melanin, the same pigment responsible for skin and hair color. Babies are often born with little melanin in their irises, leading to blue or gray eyes. As melanin production increases, eye color can darken, resulting in green, hazel, or brown eyes.
Eye Color Changes in Infants
- Typical Timeframe: According to Dr., a baby's "true" eye color usually develops between six and nine months of age.
- Melanin's Role: Increased melanin production causes the eyes to darken over time.
- Predictability: The exact timing of these changes varies from child to child.
While the most significant changes typically occur in infancy, slight variations in eye color can happen throughout life due to factors like light exposure and health conditions, although these are less dramatic.
