Although some babies are born with the eye color they will have for life, others experience pigment changes. As your baby's eye color becomes clearer, so does her vision and ability to see colors and detail.
Function
Eye color is determined by the amount of melanin or pigment, that is present in the area that lies over the iris. Melanin also is the brown pigment that tans your skin. A high amount of melanin typically results in brown eyes. Vice versa, a low amount melanin translates into lighter eye color. Parents' genes also contribute to eye color---but just because both parents have blue eyes does not mean the baby will have blue eyes.
Heritage
Eye color also is linked to genetic ancestry. For example, those of African or Asian descent are typically born with brown eyes. Caucasian babies are born with eyes that may appear gray or dark blue and change color with time. A baby's eye color changes because they may not yet have produced all the pigment that can color the eyes green, hazel or other colors.
Time Frame
If your baby's eye color is going to change, you may observe the eyes becoming darker in the first 3 to 6 months of life, according to Kids Health. While the time frame can vary, by 9 months most babies eyes will settle on their permanent color.
Considerations
You should schedule a six-month eye exam for your child, according to All About Vision, to ensure your baby's eye development is progressing normally. During this examination, your physician will test your child for signs of visual acuity, alignment and astigmatism. Your physician also may be able to determine if your child's eye color will change any further.
Warning
Baby's eyes are very sensitive to sun and light in the first few months. As your baby's eyes and eye color continue to develop, you can slowly expose your infant's eyes to more light.
