There was a separate trait for attractive eyes… “The more the whites of the eyes show, the higher the likability”

Researchers from the University of Quebec and the University of Montreal altered 50 face photos to change only how much sclera was visible, then asked 162 participants to rate them.

Faces showing more eye white were judged as more attractive, trustworthy, and sociable.

The effect did not differ by the evaluator’s sex or the face’s sex.

The findings suggest sclera may shape first impressions by making gaze and facial cues easier to read, and may also signal youth and health.