Green eyes are captivating, mysterious, and often considered rare. Only about 2% of the world’s population has green eyes. This unique eye color is caused by a combination of both genetic and environmental factors.

Let’s explore the eight most common causes of green eyes in pictures.

1. Genetics

The primary cause of green eyes is genetics. Eye color is determined by the amount and distribution of a pigment called melanin in the iris. While brown eyes have abundant melanin, blue eyes have significantly less.

Green eyes fall somewhere in between, with a moderate amount of melanin. Genetic variations in the OCA2 and HERC2 genes contribute to the development of green eyes.

2. Hazel Eye Genes

Hazel eyes are often mistaken for green eyes due to their similar appearance. Hazel eyes are a combination of brown and green pigments. If you have a parent or grandparent with hazel eyes, it increases the likelihood of having green eyes.

3. Rayleigh Scattering

An intriguing optical phenomenon called Rayleigh scattering can also cause eyes to appear green.

When light passes through the clear outer layer of the eye, the cornea and the lens, it scatters multiple times, reflecting a combination of blues and greens. This scattering effect is more visible in eyes with less melanin, making them appear greenish.

4. Low Melanin Levels

People with green eyes typically have lower levels of melanin in their irises compared to those with brown eyes. Melanin is responsible for giving color to our skin, hair, and eyes.

Reduced melanin levels in the iris allow more light to scatter, amplifying the green appearance.

Related Article Yellow Eyes: 8 Causes in Pictures

5. Weather and Lighting

The surrounding environment and lighting conditions can influence how green your eyes appear. Certain weather conditions like overcast skies or greenish landscapes can reflect light into the eyes, making them look greener.

Similarly, well-lit areas, especially with natural sunlight, can enhance the green pigments in the iris, making eyes appear even greener.

6. Eye Makeup

Using specific eye makeup colors can enhance the green appearance of your eyes. Shades like bronze, copper, plum, and purple can create a stunning contrast with the green color, making your eyes stand out and look more vibrant.

7. Eye Diseases

In some cases, certain eye diseases can cause changes in eye color. For instance, individuals with glaucoma may develop greenish or bluish eyes due to increased pressure within the eye.

It’s essential to consult an eye specialist if you notice any sudden changes in your eye color.

8. Medications and Health Conditions

Certain medications and health conditions may affect the color of your eyes. For instance, people with Wilson’s disease, a genetic disorder that leads to copper buildup in the body, may develop greenish-brown rings around their irises.

Additionally, medications containing prostaglandin analogues, often used to treat glaucoma, can darken the iris and give it a greenish tint.

Green eyes are undoubtedly unique and beautiful, with multiple causes making them appear the way they do. Whether it’s your genes, environmental factors, or even the lighting, embrace your mesmerizing green eyes!.