Why Do Babies Have Gray Eyes At Birth?
Why do babies have gray eyes at birth? This is a very common question that many mothers have when they meet their little one who has just been born, especially new ones.
In principle, it is believed and expected that they will retain this color forever, without knowing why they are so. The gray eyes of babies are charming and attract a lot of attention from those close to them.
As the months go by, parents notice that this color has changed. They may have become darker or lighter, but the truth is that the gray tone is gone. And the doubt resurfaces: What is the reason for this phenomenon? Why do babies have gray eyes at birth?
Understanding why babies have gray eyes at birth
The person responsible for this interesting color in the baby’s eyes is melanin, the substance that gives the iris pigmentation.
In reality, it is not that the color changes, but that it begins to define itself. The newborn has immature melanin cells, but their production continues non-stop. As it grows, the cells mature and this causes the color change; we can notice it from 6 months of age.
Already at 8 months, the child has a more defined eye color or, what is the same, a marked pigmentation of the iris.
Genetics and eye color
The maturation of the melanocytes and the solar stimulus generate the melanin that gives color to the iris. We must also remember that, many times, the color of the eyes is linked to that of the skin and race.
Anyway, a specific rule is not yet known to know what color the baby will have; this will depend on the genetic inheritance of your parents. Eye color is designated by genes; the dark colors are given by the dominant genes and the light ones by the recessive ones.
When will the baby’s eye color be defined?
For sure, it is not known when the little one’s true eye color will be established. This is an individual process, very similar to hair growth, so it occurs in different ways in each infant.
It may be the case that, at five months, the baby has the color that will last for a lifetime. It can also happen that at 7 months it has a pigmentation and another year after; everything will depend on the maturation of your cells.
In general terms, after 5 months it can be said that the process begins in which the color of your eyes will change to the definitive one. This ends at approximately 2 years.
Newborn Baby Eye Care
Babies are very delicate at birth. They are exposed to catching infections very quickly, since their immune system has not fully developed.
In this sense, the eyes are usually the most affected. However, steps can be taken to prevent these types of problems:
Eliminate wasteful residues
When the baby presents this pathology, it is good to have physiological saline on hand. If you have a dropper, much better. You have to place the baby on his back and put two drops in each eye; their head must be moved from one side to the other, so that the serum covers them completely.
Use of gauze or wipes
Gauze and wipes are very practical for cleaning the eyelids. It goes without saying that they should be sterile and moist.
In order to prevent the spread of infection, it is recommended to use a different wipe or gauze for each eye. To clean the eye with these implements, movements will be made from the inner part of the eyelids to the tear duct. This procedure can be done twice a day: upon waking and after bathing.
Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis is a bacterial or allergic disease that occurs in the form of excessive lashing, swollen eyelids, and red eyes.
It will be difficult for the little one to open his eyes, as the bugs will reproduce quickly. In these cases, trying to keep the eyes clean with serum is ideal.
To prevent this annoying pathology, excessive hygiene in the eyes is necessary. So is keeping your hands clean and constantly hydrating this important organ.
On the other hand, we must be aware that the baby is not exposed to very bright lights or strong sun during its first days. It is advisable to keep it in a room with low light; This way, when you have your eyes wide open, they can be properly cleaned.
As long as your little one has those lovely gray eyes, enjoy them to the fullest. But remember: when they change to their original color you will be even more in love with your baby.
