When do babies' eyes change color? Everything parents should know

At birth, many babies have blue eyes. But in the months that follow, this color often changes. Why do baby eyes change color? At what age does this transformation stop? And is it possible to predict a baby’s final eye color?

Why are most babies born with blue eyes?

It’s quite common for newborns to have blue eyes. This is due to the low levels of melanin in their iris. Melanin is the pigment that gives color to the eyes, skin, and hair. At birth, the baby's pigment-producing cells are not fully activated, resulting in a temporary blue-gray hue.

Over the following months, melanin production increases, and the eyes can gradually darken. That’s why some babies’ eyes change from blue to green, hazel, or brown.

When do babies' eyes reach their final color?

The change in eye color usually begins around 1 to 3 months of age and can continue for several months. Here are the main stages:

• At 1 month: Eyes start reacting to light, but color is still undefined.
• At 2 months: First signs of change appear; eyes may look lighter or darker.
• At 3–6 months: Eye color continues to evolve with increased melanin production.
• At 12 months: For most babies, the eye color becomes nearly permanent.
• Up to 2 years: In rare cases, slight changes can still occur.

What factors influence a baby's eye color?

A baby’s final eye color is determined by several key factors:

• Genetics: The most significant factor. A baby’s eye color is hereditary and depends on DNA passed down from both parents.
• Melanin levels: The more melanin in the iris, the darker the eyes (hazel or brown). Less melanin results in lighter eyes (blue or green).
• Environmental factors: Exposure to light can slightly influence the intensity of eye color over time.

FAQ: Most common baby eye color questions

1️⃣ Do all babies have blue eyes at birth?

No. While many babies are born with blue eyes, some have brown or green eyes from birth due to a faster melanin response in their iris.

2️⃣ Can you predict a baby's final eye color?

Genetics play a major role, but it’s difficult to predict the exact shade. The probability depends on the eye color of the parents and even grandparents.

3️⃣ Why do some babies keep their light eyes?

If the baby’s iris produces very little melanin, their eyes are likely to stay light (blue, gray, or green) into adulthood.

Conclusion

A baby’s eye color gradually evolves in the first months of life. This change is directly linked to melanin production and genetics. For parents, it’s a fascinating process to watch as their child’s unique eye color develops.

How old was your baby when their eye color changed? Tell us in the comments!