Hazel Eye Colour: Rarity, Interesting Facts and Care Tips

Tina Patel Tina Patel
Tuesday, 11 November 2025
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There is something special about hazel eyes that makes them stand out. A mix of brown, golden and green, hazel is a mesmerising outcome of different colours. If you’ve hazel eyes or just find them fascinating, read on to know interesting facts about them and how to care for them.

What gives hazel eyes their unique colour?

Eye colour is determined by the amount and distribution of melanin within the iris and how light scatters within it. Melanin is the pigment that determines the colour of your eyes, skin and hair. So, the more melanin you have, the darker your eyes will be.

For example, brown eyes contain a high amount of melanin, which absorbs more light. Green eyes, on the other hand, have a moderate amount of melanin, which absorbs some light but still allows light to scatter, giving them their green colour.

Hazel eyes are more complex. Uneven melanin in the iris creates a mix of colours that can appear to change, depending on the light. This variation in melanin density, combined with light scattering, gives hazel eyes their distinctive multicoloured appearance.

Genetics and eye colour

The phenomenon of Rayleigh scattering results in unique eye colours like hazel. Genetics also play a part as eye colour is an inherited trait. However, genes and heredity aren’t the only factors. According to various researches, several genes and the distribution of melanin in the iris can influence the eye colour.

What are the different shades of hazel eyes?

different shades of hazel eyes

No two pairs of hazel eyes look alike because of the unique distribution of melanin. Some look greener while others might look golden or deep brown. Based on the intensity of the shade, this colour can be divided into three categories:

  • Light: They usually look green, with golden flecks that shine when sunlight hits
  • Medium: They shift between brown and green, depending on lighting
  • Dark: They appear brown but look green when the light hits right

How to protect and care for hazel eyes?

  1. Wear 100% UV-protected sunnies - They shield your eyes from harsh sun rays and help you see clearly at the same time
  2. Get regular eye check-ups – This initiative helps monitor eye health and can detect early signs of eye conditions
  3. Wear a hat or cap - When stepping outdoors, make sure you wear a wide-brimmed hat. This gives additional protection to your eyes and face.

Did you know?

  1. About 5% of the world’s population has hazel eye colour.
  2. There is no hazel pigment in the eye.
  3. Hazel eyes can be found in different shades and patterns, including a burst-like pattern, making them uniquely different from other eye colours.
  4. Hazel eyes are most common in people of European descent, particularly those from Southern and Eastern Europe.

What makeup suits hazel eyes?

The right eye makeup can instantly enhance your hazel eyes. Here are some colours that make hazel eyes pop.

  • Pretty Plum: Plum and mauve shades highlight the golden and green flecks in hazel eyes by creating a rich contrast.
  • Glam Green: Green eyeshadow can really make the hazel colour pop. It makes your eyes look brighter and more defined, especially in natural light.
  • Peachy Pink: Who doesn't love pink? It adds a fresh, romantic touch, looking beautiful on every skin tone.
  • Bold Brown: If your hazel eyes have a golden or brown hue, go for bronze and gold tones. They enhance the natural depth in your eyes.

Celebrities with hazel eyes

Zendaya

Zendaya’s hazel eyes

Demi Moore

Demi Moore’s hazel eyes

Ben Affleck

Ben Affleck’s hazel eyes

David Beckham

David Beckham’s hazel eyes

What glasses suit hazel eyes?

Choosing the right frame colour can help highlight your eye colour. Hazel pairs beautifully with earthy, deep colours. Here are some of our best picks:

Stand out with earthy tones like browns and greens

Feel Good Collection Sawyer Brown Glasses

Try Feel Good Collection Sawyer Brown Glasses

If your eyes are more towards the brown hue, contrast them with bold green frames
EARTH Autumn Green Glasses

Try EARTH Autumn Green Glasses

If they’re greener, go for brown or tortoiseshell frames

Feel Good Collection Alfie 48 Shiny Tortoise Glasses

Try Feel Good Collection Alfie 48 Shiny Tortoise Glasses

Want a bolder look? Go for vibrant red, blue or purple frames to make your eyes pop
Ray-Ban Chad 0RX7217 8265 Transparent Red 52 Glasses

Try Ray-Ban Chad 0RX7217 8265 Transparent Red 52 Glasses

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