Hazel eyes
Hazel eyes: colour, rarity and what makes them unique
Updated February 2026
Often described as a striking mix of green, brown and gold, hazel eyes are known for their ability to appear different depending on lighting and surroundings.
In this guide, we’ll explore:
- What colours make up hazel eyes
- How rare hazel eye colour really is
- The science behind eye pigmentation
- Celebrities with hazel eyes
- How coloured contact lenses can safely enhance or replicate the look
What colours are in hazel eyes?
Hazel eyes are unique because they contain multiple hues within the iris (the coloured part of the eye).
Unlike uniform eye colours such as blue or dark brown, hazel eyes often include:
- Brown – Usually the dominant base pigment
- Green – Flecks or undertones that create depth
- Gold or amber – Warm tones that reflect light
Because of this blend, hazel eyes can appear:
- Greener in natural daylight
- More golden in warm indoor lighting
- Darker in low-light conditions
This shifting appearance is one of the reasons hazel eyes are often described as “multidimensional.”
How rare are hazel eyes?
Hazel eye colour is relatively uncommon worldwide.
It’s estimated that around 5% of the global population has hazel-coloured eyes. This makes them rarer than brown or blue eyes, but more common than green eyes.
For comparison:
- Brown eyes: 70–80% globally
- Blue eyes: 8–10%
- Green eyes: Around 2%
Hazel eyes are sometimes mistaken for green eyes due to their shared colour variations. However, the presence of brown and amber tones is what distinguishes hazel from true green eyes.
What causes hazel eye colour?
Eye colour is determined by:
- The amount of melanin in the iris
- The type of melanin present
- How light scatters within the iris structure
The iris contains two layers. Most people have melanin in the back layer, but the concentration of melanin in the front layer determines visible eye colour.
Hazel eyes sit between brown and blue in terms of melanin levels.
There are two main types of melanin involved:
Eumelanin
- Controls depth and darkness
- Higher levels = darker brown tones
- Lower levels = lighter shades
Pheomelanin
- Provides warm yellow or red pigments
- Contributes to golden or amber tones
Hazel eyes often contain a balance of both eumelanin and pheomelanin, creating their blended appearance.
How do genetics influence hazel eyes?
Eye colour is influenced by multiple genes working together.
Two genes have the strongest impact:
- OCA2
- HERC2
These genes regulate melanin production in the iris. Variations in how they interact determine how much pigment develops — influencing whether eyes appear brown, blue, green or hazel.
Eye colour inheritance is complex, which is why two parents with brown eyes can sometimes have a child with hazel or green eyes.
Can hazel eyes change colour?
Hazel eyes don’t actually change colour permanently, but they can appear different depending on:
- Lighting
- Clothing colours
- Makeup
- Surrounding environments
This happens because of how light reflects off the different pigment layers in the iris.
Sudden or dramatic eye colour changes in adulthood, however, should always be assessed by an optometrist.
Celebrities with hazel eyes
Many well-known public figures have hazel eyes, which often stand out in photos and film.
Examples include:
- David Beckham
- Rachel Weisz
- Christian Bale
- Kate Beckinsale
- Hugh Jackman
- Karen Gillan
Their eye colour often appears slightly different depending on lighting — a hallmark of hazel eyes.
Can you get hazel eyes with coloured contact lenses?
If you don’t naturally have hazel eyes, hazel coloured contact lenses can temporarily change your appearance.
Coloured lenses are available:
- With prescription
- Without prescription (cosmetic lenses)
However, all contact lenses — including cosmetic ones — should be fitted and supplied through a qualified professional to ensure they fit safely and allow enough oxygen to reach the cornea.
Before wearing coloured contact lenses:
- Book an eye test
- Ensure your prescription is up to date
- Follow proper lens care guidance
Even non-corrective lenses must sit properly on your eye to avoid discomfort or complications.
When should you see an optometrist?
Eye colour itself is not a sign of eye health.
However, you should seek professional advice if you notice:
- Sudden changes in iris colour
- Uneven pigmentation appearing later in life
- Eye pain or light sensitivity
- Blurred vision
Regular comprehensive eye exams help monitor both vision and overall eye health.
Exploring eye colour safely
Hazel eyes are a rare and beautiful combination of pigments shaped by genetics and light interaction.
If you’re interested in enhancing your eye colour, always prioritise eye health first.
At Lenstore, we offer a range of prescription and cosmetic coloured contact lenses, along with lens care solutions to help keep your eyes comfortable and healthy.