Having naturally lighter eyes is often seen as very desirable. While eye color is mostly genetic, there are some natural ways to potentially lighten dark brown eyes over time. Let’s explore some of the options.
What determines eye color?
The main factor that determines eye color is genetics. The amount of melanin pigment in the iris of your eye is what makes eyes appear a certain shade. Higher amounts of melanin lead to darker brown/black shades while lower amounts result in lighter blues and greens.
The main gene responsible for eye color is the OCA2 gene which controls melanin production. Everyone is born with a specific genetic combination that leads to a particular eye color. This means it’s not really possible to permanently change your natural eye color from brown to something lighter like green.
Can you lighten brown eyes?
While you can’t completely alter genetics, there are some natural ways that may lighten dark brown eyes over time. The goal is to reduce excessive melanin production in the iris which then allows the natural lighter tones in the eyes to show through more.
It’s a gradual process and results will vary based on your specific eye color and genetics. But with some patience and consistency using the methods below, you may start to see your brown eyes get a touch lighter after a few months.
Ways to naturally lighten brown eyes
1. Use eye drops with natural whitening ingredients
Certain plant extracts and vitamins are thought to inhibit melanin production which can lead to a slight lightening effect in the eyes when used consistently over time. Look for eye drop products that contain ingredients like:
– Vitamin C – Antioxidant that may reduce melanin and increase collagen for brighter eyes
– Chamomile extract – Anti-inflammatory and soothing properties help reduce pigmentation
– Mulberry extract – Natural flavonoids can inhibit melanin synthesis and lighten skin/eyes
– Eucommia extract – Contains compounds that help decrease melanin formation
– Rose extract – Bioflavonoids work to protect from UV rays and reduce pigmentation
Apply the eye drops 2-3 times per day for several months to see gradual lightening of dark brown eyes. Be sure to carefully follow the instructions for the specific eye drops you choose.
2. Eat foods and herbs that reduce melanin
In addition to topical remedies, you can also try to reduce eye pigmentation from the inside out. Certain foods contain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that may help slow down melanin synthesis. Make sure to eat a healthy diet with lots of:
– Vitamin C – Found in citrus fruits, berries, tomatoes, peppers. Antioxidant properties lighten skin and eyes.
– Vitamin E – Nuts, seeds, vegetable oils, green veggies. Protects eyes and has anti-pigment effects.
– Zinc – Seafood, meats, eggs, nuts, seeds. Important for eye health and reduces melanin.
– Lycopene – Tomatoes, red fruits and veggies. Powerful antioxidant that shields from UV rays.
You can also try taking oral supplements derived from plants like gingko biloba, aloe vera, and red currants. Herbs may help inhibit melanin and increase collagen levels for naturally lighter eyes. But check with your doctor before starting any new supplements, especially if you have health conditions.
3. Use chemical peels and creams with lightening ingredients
Over-the-counter creams and chemical peels contain acids and compounds that may lighten skin and eyes by exfoliation. Look for ingredients like:
– Kojic acid – Derived from mushrooms, inhibits melanin production. Use kojic eye creams.
– Arbutin – Naturally found in certain berries, blocks melanin formation. Use arbutin whitening creams.
– Vitamin C – Antioxidant found in citrus fruits. Creams with vit C reduce pigmentation.
– Lactic acid – AHAs exfoliate skin to decrease melanin and increase collagen. Try lactic acid peels.
Only use products specially formulated for use around the delicate eye area. Use a very small amount and limit application to once per day or less to avoid irritation.
4. Use sun protection
Too much sun exposure can stimulate melanin production and make eyes appear darker. Always wear UV blocking sunglasses when outside to protect your eyes from the sun’s rays. Wide brim hats also help provide shade and prevent squinting which can lead to pigmentation over time.
Use natural sunscreens and moisturizers containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide around the eyes to block UV rays. Limit sun exposure during peak times and wear protective clothing. Reducing sun damage will help prevent increased melanin production.
Are there permanent eye lightening options?
The natural methods above may gradually lighten dark brown eyes over time with consistent use. However, the effects are limited and results will vary based on your genetics.
If you want permanent, significant changes to your natural eye color, you would need to consider cosmetic procedures. Options include:
– Laser eye surgery – Uses lasers to break up melanin deposits in the iris. This can lighten brown eyes 1-2 shades after multiple treatments.
– Iris implants – Colored contact lenses can be surgically implanted to override your natural pigment and change eye color.
– Eye tattooing – Injects dye into the thin membrane around the iris to alter color. Multiple sessions are required.
However, these methods all carry risks like infection, vision impairment, inconsistent results, and other complications. Consult an ophthalmologist to learn more about risks vs potential benefits.
Conclusion
While eye color is mostly determined by genetics, there are some natural ways to potentially lighten very dark brown eyes over time. Using whitening eye drops, eating melanin-inhibiting foods, applying lightening creams, and protecting from the sun may gradually reduce excess pigment and allow natural lighter flecks to show through after a few months. But significant color changes would require cosmetic procedures like lasers or implants. Speak to your eye doctor to determine if any permanent altering methods would be safe or effective for your specific eyes. With patience and consistency using natural methods, you may see subtle lightening of very dark brown irises. But embrace and enhance your unique eye color however it naturally occurs.
| Method | How it May Lighten Eyes |
|---|---|
| Whitening eye drops | Plant extracts reduce melanin production |
| Foods and herbs | Contain antioxidants and vitamins that inhibit melanin |
| Lightening creams | Acids and compounds exfoliate to decrease melanin |
| Sun protection | Prevents UV damage and increased melanin production |