Purple Eyes: Rare Color, Causes, And How To Get Them

Have you ever wondered if purple eyes are real? The answer might surprise you! While naturally occurring true purple eyes are incredibly rare, they aren't entirely a myth. Let's dive into the fascinating world of eye colors and uncover the truth behind the violet gaze.

The Science Behind Eye Color

Before we delve into the specifics of purple eyes, let's understand the basics of how eye color is determined. The iris, the colored part of your eye, gets its hue primarily from melanin, the same pigment responsible for skin and hair color. The amount and distribution of melanin in the iris determine whether your eyes are brown, blue, green, or somewhere in between. Genetics play a huge role in this process, with multiple genes contributing to the final outcome. It's not as simple as one gene for brown eyes and another for blue; it's a complex interplay of various genetic factors that determine the amount of melanin produced and how it's arranged within the iris. This explains why siblings can have different eye colors and why eye color inheritance patterns can sometimes seem unpredictable. Factors such as age and health conditions can also influence eye color, though typically to a lesser extent than genetics. So, the next time you marvel at someone's captivating eyes, remember that it's a result of a complex genetic and biological process.

Melanin and Eye Color

Melanin is the key player here, guys. The more melanin you have in your iris, the darker your eyes will be. Brown eyes have the most melanin, while blue eyes have the least. Green and hazel eyes fall somewhere in between, with varying amounts and distributions of melanin. But what about purple eyes? Well, naturally occurring purple eyes are not caused by a unique purple pigment. Instead, they are the result of a specific combination of factors, primarily very low levels of melanin and the way light scatters off the iris. This scattering effect, known as Rayleigh scattering, is the same phenomenon that makes the sky appear blue. In individuals with very little melanin in their iris, the blue light scattered through the stroma (the connective tissue in the iris) can mix with the red hue from the blood vessels in the iris, creating the appearance of purple. This is why true purple eyes are often described as having a violet or amethyst-like color. However, it's essential to distinguish between naturally occurring purple eyes and the appearance of purple eyes due to other factors such as lighting, makeup, or contact lenses.

Are Purple Eyes Real?

So, are truly purple eyes real? Technically, yes, but they are incredibly rare. What people often perceive as purple eyes are usually a shade of blue or violet, influenced by lighting, makeup, or even the color of clothing. In very rare cases, individuals with albinism or certain genetic conditions may have eyes that appear purple due to the lack of pigment and the way light reflects off the blood vessels in the eyes. The famous actress Elizabeth Taylor, for example, was often said to have purple eyes, but in reality, her eyes were a deep blue that appeared violet under certain lighting conditions. So, while the idea of naturally occurring, genuinely purple eyes is enchanting, it's essential to understand that what we often see is a trick of the light or other influencing factors.

Elizabeth Taylor and Violet Eyes

Speaking of Elizabeth Taylor, she's often the first person that comes to mind when people think of purple eyes. While she didn't technically have true purple eyes, her deep blue eyes often appeared violet due to the way light reflected off them. This, combined with her striking beauty and iconic status, solidified the association of violet eyes with a certain allure and mystique. Her eyes were so captivating that they became a defining feature of her public image, often highlighted in publicity photos and film posters. Elizabeth Taylor's eyes serve as a reminder that the perception of eye color can be influenced by various factors, including lighting, makeup, and even the observer's own perception. So, while true purple eyes may be a rarity, the enchanting effect of violet-tinged eyes, as exemplified by Elizabeth Taylor, continues to capture our imagination.

Conditions That Can Cause a Purple Eye Appearance

While true purple eyes are rare, certain conditions can lead to the appearance of a purple or violet hue in the eyes:

• Albinism: Albinism is a genetic condition characterized by a lack of melanin production. In individuals with albinism, the iris may appear pink or violet due to the visibility of blood vessels. The absence of pigment allows light to reflect off the blood vessels in the eyes, creating the perception of a purple or reddish hue. Albinism can affect the eyes, skin, and hair, and it is typically inherited from both parents. The degree of pigment loss can vary among individuals with albinism, resulting in different shades of eye color, ranging from very light blue to violet. It's important to note that albinism can also affect vision, as melanin plays a role in the development of the retina. Therefore, individuals with albinism often require specialized eye care and vision correction.
• Low Melanin Levels: People with very low levels of melanin in their irises may have eyes that appear blue or violet under certain lighting conditions. The combination of low melanin and the scattering of light can create the illusion of purple eyes. This is more common in individuals of European descent, who tend to have lower levels of melanin in their eyes compared to other populations. However, even within this group, true purple eyes are still exceptionally rare. The appearance of purple eyes due to low melanin levels is often influenced by the surrounding environment, such as the color of clothing or the ambient lighting. So, while it's possible to have eyes that appear purple due to low melanin levels, it's important to consider the context and influencing factors before concluding that someone has true purple eyes.
• Certain Genetic Conditions: Rarely, certain genetic conditions can affect eye color and lead to a purple appearance. These conditions are often associated with other health issues and are not solely characterized by purple eyes. The genetic mutations involved can disrupt the normal production or distribution of melanin in the iris, resulting in unusual eye colors, including violet or purple. These conditions are typically complex and require comprehensive medical evaluation to diagnose and manage. The appearance of purple eyes in these cases is often just one symptom among a range of other physical and developmental abnormalities. So, while certain genetic conditions can lead to the appearance of purple eyes, it's essential to consider the broader clinical picture and seek appropriate medical attention.

How to Get "Purple Eyes"

Okay, so maybe you weren't born with naturally purple eyes. But don't worry, there are ways to achieve the look!

• Colored Contact Lenses: This is the easiest and most common way to get purple eyes. Many brands offer violet or purple colored contacts that can instantly transform your eye color. Be sure to consult with an eye doctor before using contact lenses to ensure proper fit and care. When choosing colored contact lenses, it's important to consider factors such as comfort, oxygen permeability, and UV protection. Improperly fitted or poorly maintained contact lenses can lead to eye irritation, infection, and even vision damage. So, before you rush out to buy a pair of purple contact lenses, take the time to research different brands, read reviews, and consult with an eye care professional to ensure a safe and satisfactory experience.
• Makeup: Clever use of eyeshadows and eyeliners can enhance your natural eye color and create a violet hue. Purples, pinks, and even certain blues can make your eyes appear more violet. Experiment with different shades and techniques to find what works best for you. When using makeup to enhance your eye color, it's important to choose high-quality products that are safe for use around the eyes. Avoid products that contain harsh chemicals or irritants, and always remove your makeup thoroughly before going to bed. Additionally, consider your skin tone and eye shape when selecting makeup colors and application techniques. What works for one person may not work for another, so it's important to experiment and find what makes your eyes look their best.
• Lighting: As we've discussed, lighting can significantly impact how eye color is perceived. Experiment with different lighting conditions to see how your eyes look in various settings. Sometimes, specific lighting can bring out the violet tones in your eyes. The color temperature of the light source, the angle of the light, and the surrounding environment can all influence the appearance of your eye color. For example, warm lighting can enhance the brown or hazel tones in your eyes, while cool lighting can bring out the blue or green tones. By understanding how lighting affects your eye color, you can strategically position yourself in different environments to accentuate your natural features and create the desired effect.

In Conclusion

While naturally occurring true purple eyes are incredibly rare, the allure of the violet gaze remains strong. Whether through genetics, lighting, or a little help from colored contacts, the mystique of purple eyes continues to captivate us all. So, keep those eyes sparkling, whatever color they may be!