Does Eye Color Affect Light Sensitivity?

The color of your eyes is determined by the amount of pigment in your iris. People with lighter eyes, like blue or green, have less pigment than those with darker eyes. This means that lighter-colored eyes might let in more light, which could make them feel uncomfortable in bright settings. Research has found that less pigment can lead to increased glare and visual discomfort for some people. However, this doesn’t mean every person with light-colored eyes will always have problems with bright light. Many factors, including genetics and overall eye health, influence light sensitivity. If you find that bright sunlight or indoor lighting bothers your eyes a lot, you can try wearing sunglasses with UV protection or tinted glasses to help reduce the discomfort. Still, if your light sensitivity is very bothersome or seems to be getting worse, it’s a good idea to check in with an eye care professional for a complete evaluation.