
Warning: Give Eye Color-Changing Drops a Hard NO
Thinking about personal changes you want to make in the new year? It may seem tempting to try a new eye color using over-the-counter drops being touted on social media, but there’s no evidence that they work. These drops are also not FDA-approved, so there’s no evidence that they’re safe to use in your eyes.
The Claim:
Manufacturers of eye color-changing drops claim they adjust natural levels of melanin in the iris, the colored part of the eye. However, there is no evidence the formula can target the iris pigment. If the drops compromise these cells, they could potentially harm the eye. It’s also uncertain how this ingredient might affect other parts of the eye, like the retina, which depends on melanin to function properly. (For more on melanin and eye color, see https://atlanticeye.com/2024/11/celebrating-blue-eyes-a-unique-trait-in-native-american-heritage/.)
The Risks:
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the use of these drops puts the user’s eyes at risk for painful conditions and vision loss. Potential safety risks of using unregulated eye drops include:
• Inflammation
• Infection
• Light sensitivity
• Increased eye pressure or glaucoma
• Permanent vision loss
The Reality:
Money spent on color-changing eye drops is likely wasteful. More importantly, when products are not FDA-approved, it means they have not undergone the required safety and efficacy testing. Also, it’s unclear whether the current Good Manufacturing Practice regulations were followed during production. Unregulated manufacturing facility conditions can lead to contaminated products that can cause dangerous eye infections.
When it comes to positive changes this new year, your Atlantic Eye physicians advise focusing on promoting good eye health by following healthy habits and staying up to date on eye exams. As things stand now, it’s better to give untested and unproven eye products a big miss – and maybe treat yourself to some colorful new eyewear instead!