Which is the Rarest Eye Shape: Unveiling the Rarity and Distinctiveness of Unique Eye Forms
Which is the Rarest Eye Shape: Unveiling the Rarity and Distinctiveness of Unique Eye Forms
It’s a question that often sparks curiosity, perhaps when you’re admiring someone’s striking gaze or contemplating your own unique features. You might wonder, "Which is the rarest eye shape?" While many people are familiar with common eye shapes like round, almond, and hooded, the world of human physiognomy is far more diverse. The truth is, pinpointing *one* single rarest eye shape is a bit like trying to identify the single rarest snowflake – there are nuances, combinations, and variations that make definitive categorization challenging. However, based on general understanding and the prevalence of certain characteristics, we can discuss eye shapes that are significantly less common than others.
From my own observations, I’ve noticed how much an eye’s shape can contribute to its overall impact. I remember a close friend in college who had incredibly distinctive eyes. They weren’t just a particular color; their shape was almost feline, with an upward tilt that gave them a naturally captivating and somewhat enigmatic allure. It made me pause and think about how we categorize these features, and whether some are simply much harder to find than others. This personal reflection, combined with a deep dive into the subject, has led me to believe that certain less-discussed eye shapes, particularly those with extreme characteristics or unusual proportions, are indeed the rarest.
Understanding Eye Shape: More Than Just Genetics
Before we delve into the rarest of the rare, it’s crucial to understand what defines an eye shape. It’s not just about the iris color or the pupil; it’s a complex interplay of several factors:
- Eyelid Crease: The presence, absence, or type of crease significantly alters the appearance of the eye.
- Inner and Outer Corners: The angle and placement of these corners are key determinants of shape.
- Epicanthic Folds: These are extra folds of skin that run from the upper eyelid to the lower eyelid, partially covering the inner corner of the eye. They are common in people of East Asian descent.
- Overall Proportions: The relative width, height, and depth of the eye socket.
- Brow Bone Structure: The prominence of the brow bone can influence how the eye appears, contributing to shapes like hooded or deep-set eyes.
- Fat Pads and Skin Elasticity: These can contribute to the appearance of hooded or downturned eyes.
It's also worth noting that eye shapes aren't always purely one category. Many individuals possess a blend of characteristics, making them unique. This is precisely why identifying *the* rarest can be a bit of a moving target. However, we can confidently say that eye shapes deviating significantly from the most common archetypes are likely to be among the rarest.
The Spectrum of Common Eye Shapes
To appreciate rarity, we first need a baseline of what’s considered common. While proportions vary, these shapes are frequently encountered:
- Almond Eyes: Perhaps the most universally recognized and often considered ideal, almond eyes are characterized by their slightly elongated shape, wider at the center and tapering towards both the inner and outer corners. The outer corners are typically slightly higher than the inner corners.
- Round Eyes: These eyes are as wide as they are tall, with a distinct circular appearance. The iris often appears larger because it doesn't touch the upper or lower eyelid, or it touches them only slightly.
- Hooded Eyes: In hooded eyes, a fold of skin from the brow bone hangs down over the eyelid crease, making the eyelid appear smaller or even invisible when the eye is open. This is a common characteristic and not necessarily rare, but it significantly alters the visual perception of the eye shape.
- Upturned Eyes: Similar to almond eyes, but with a more pronounced upward tilt at the outer corners, giving a naturally lifted and sometimes "cat-like" appearance.
- Downturned Eyes: The opposite of upturned eyes, these have outer corners that slant downwards. This can give a softer or more melancholic expression.
These shapes, while having variations, form the majority of the eye shape landscape. Now, let's venture into the less common territories.
Which Eye Shapes Are Generally Considered Rare?
When we talk about rarity, we're looking for eye shapes that deviate from the norm in significant ways. These often involve exaggerated features or the absence of typical characteristics. Based on my research and observations, several contenders emerge:
- Deep-Set Eyes with Extreme Proportions: While deep-set eyes themselves aren't exceptionally rare, when combined with very narrowness or an unusual lid structure, they can become quite distinctive. The brow bone is prominent, casting a shadow over the eye, making it appear further back in the socket. If this recess is particularly deep, and the eye itself is unusually narrow, it creates a striking and less common appearance.
- Monolid Eyes with Specific Features: Monolid eyes, characterized by the absence of a visible eyelid crease, are common in many Asian populations. However, the *degree* of monolid and any accompanying features can influence rarity. For instance, a very narrow monolid, or one combined with very closely spaced eyes, might be less frequently seen than a broader monolid.
- Eyes with a Distinctive "Fishtail" or "Phoenix" Shape: These are essentially extreme versions of upturned eyes. The outer corner extends significantly upwards, creating a dramatic, almost upward-sweeping line. This exaggeration makes them stand out and less common. The "phoenix eye" is particularly notable for its elongated, narrow appearance with a very pronounced upward slant.
- Eyes with a Very Pronounced Downturn: While downturned eyes exist, a *very* significant downturn at the outer corners, making the eye appear almost mournful or intensely sad, is less frequently encountered than a subtle slant.
- "Close-Set" Eyes with Exaggerated Narrowness: Eyes that are positioned very close together are not uncommon. However, when this closeness is combined with a very narrow width, creating a distinct, almost pointed appearance at the inner corners, it becomes a rarer characteristic.
- Eyes with Asymmetrical Lids (beyond typical differences): Most people have slight asymmetry in their eyes. However, significant differences in the size or shape of the eyelids between the two eyes, beyond what's considered normal variation, could be considered rare.
It's important to reiterate that these are generalizations. The beauty of human diversity means there are countless unique combinations.
The "Fishtail" or "Phoenix" Eye: A Strong Contender for Rarity
If I had to pick one eye shape that consistently stands out as exceptionally rare due to its dramatic and specific characteristics, it would likely be the "fishtail" or "phoenix" eye. This isn't a universally recognized medical term, but rather a descriptive term used in popular culture and aesthetic discussions to denote eyes with a very pronounced upward slant at the outer corners, extending well beyond what’s typical for upturned eyes.
Imagine an almond shape, but stretched and pulled significantly upwards at the outer edges, creating an almost impossibly graceful, elongated, and lifted appearance. The iris might appear subtly elongated as well due to this lift. This shape is often associated with a striking, almost otherworldly beauty. It’s seen as a dramatic departure from the more balanced proportions of typical almond or round eyes. The dramatic upward sweep requires a very specific genetic blueprint for the bone structure, eyelid muscles, and skin elasticity. Because such an extreme upward slant is not a common genetic outcome, this eye shape is indeed quite rare.
From a personal perspective, I've encountered very few individuals whose eyes possess this pronounced "fishtail" quality. When I have, they’ve always been memorable for their captivating gaze. It’s the kind of feature that draws you in, making you wonder about the unique genetics at play.
Deep-Set Eyes: When Rarity Meets Prominence
Deep-set eyes, as mentioned, are not inherently rare. However, their appearance can be amplified by other factors, leading to what might be considered a rarer manifestation. When deep-set eyes are also particularly narrow, or when the brow bone is exceptionally prominent, casting a deep shadow, the effect is quite striking. The eye appears to recede further into the socket, creating an intense and focused look.
The rarity here comes from the combination of extreme recess and narrowness. Typically, deep-set eyes still maintain a certain degree of width or roundness. When both deep-set and narrowness are pronounced, it leads to a unique facial feature. This is less about the absence of something and more about the extreme manifestation of existing traits. Think of someone with very sharp, almost angular features, and their eyes follow suit, appearing deeply set and narrowly defined.
Monolid Eyes: Understanding the Nuances of Rarity
Monolid eyes are prevalent in East Asian populations and are characterized by the absence of a visible crease on the upper eyelid. While this might suggest they are common, the spectrum of monolid eyes is quite broad. Some are very broad and rounded, while others can be extremely narrow, almost appearing to lack a visible lid space when the eye is open.
The rarity emerges when we consider specific sub-types or combinations. For example, an extremely narrow monolid, coupled with a very short intercanthal distance (the space between the inner corners of the eyes), might be less commonly observed than a broader monolid. It’s a subtle distinction, but one that contributes to the uniqueness of an individual’s features. The absence of a crease is common, but the specific proportions and angles associated with some monolid variations can make them stand out as rarer.
The Impact of Epicanthic Folds
Epicanthic folds are a fascinating aspect of eye anatomy. They are folds of skin that extend from the upper eyelid and cover the inner corner of the eye. While very common in people of East Asian, Southeast Asian, and Indigenous American ancestry, their presence and degree can vary significantly.
The rarity aspect comes into play when these folds are exceptionally pronounced, significantly altering the perceived shape and spacing of the eyes. For instance, very strong epicanthic folds can make the eyes appear even closer set or contribute to a more distinctly "slanted" appearance, even if the underlying eye structure is more almond-shaped. Conversely, a near-complete absence of epicanthic folds in populations where they are typically present could also be considered a deviation from the norm, thus rarer within that specific demographic.
Factors Contributing to Eye Shape Rarity
Several underlying factors contribute to the rarity of certain eye shapes. These are rooted in genetics, evolutionary history, and even subtle developmental variations:
Genetic Predisposition: The most significant factor is genetics. The genes inherited from parents dictate the structure of the bones around the eye socket, the shape and length of the eyelids, the distribution of fat pads, and the muscles that control eyelid movement. Certain combinations that result in extreme or unusual shapes are simply less common in the gene pool.
Evolutionary Adaptations: Over millennia, different populations have developed distinct facial features, including eye shapes, that were advantageous in their specific environments. For example, epicanthic folds are thought to have evolved as a protective mechanism against harsh sunlight, wind, and cold in ancestral populations.
Random Genetic Mutations: While less common than inherited traits, spontaneous genetic mutations can occur, leading to unique physical characteristics, including eye shapes that differ from familial patterns.
Developmental Variations: During fetal development, intricate processes form the structures of the face and eyes. Minor variations in these developmental pathways can lead to subtle or, in rare cases, significant differences in eye shape.
Hybridization of Traits: As populations intermingle, the genetic variations blend. This can lead to novel combinations of features. Sometimes, these combinations result in unique and less common eye shapes that are a fusion of previously distinct ancestral traits.
Assessing Rarity: A Subjective and Objective Approach
It's important to acknowledge that determining "rarity" can have both subjective and objective components. Objectively, we can look at statistical prevalence in large populations. However, what one person considers a distinct "shape" might be categorized differently by another. From an aesthetic viewpoint, certain extreme or unique features are often lauded for their rarity and beauty.
My own perspective is that rarity often lies in the extreme end of a spectrum or in a unique combination of features. For instance, while almond eyes are common, an exceptionally elongated and narrow almond eye with a very sharp upward slant (the "fishtail") is much rarer than a standard almond shape.
Consider the following table, which offers a speculative ranking of rarity. This is based on general observations and common categorizations, not precise statistical data, as such data for specific, nuanced eye shapes is scarce.
Speculative Rarity Ranking of Eye Shapes
| Eye Shape Category | Rarity Level (Speculative) | Key Characteristics Contributing to Rarity |
|---|---|---|
| Fishtail / Phoenix Eyes (Extreme Upturned) | Very Rare | Dramatic, exaggerated upward slant of outer corners; highly elongated appearance. |
| Deep-Set with Extreme Narrowness | Rare | Significant recess into the socket combined with a pronounced narrow width; sharp, angular appearance. |
| Monolid Eyes with Extreme Narrowness and Close Set | Rare | Absence of crease coupled with very narrow eye width and a small intercanthal distance. |
| Downturned Eyes with Extreme Slant | Rare | Significant downward slant of outer corners, creating a pronounced melancholic or sad appearance. |
| Almond Eyes with Extreme Elongation | Uncommon but Not Rare | Noticeably longer than average, with pronounced tapering at both corners. |
| Round Eyes with Extremely Large Iris Visibility | Uncommon but Not Rare | Perfectly circular shape with minimal or no eyelid coverage of the iris. |
| Hooded Eyes with Minimal Crease Visibility | Common | Pronounced overhang from the brow bone obscuring much of the eyelid. |
| Standard Almond Eyes | Common | Balanced proportions, slightly wider in the center, tapering at corners. |
| Standard Downturned Eyes | Common | Slight downward slant of outer corners. |
| Standard Upturned Eyes | Common | Slight upward slant of outer corners. |
This table highlights that rarity is often associated with extreme proportions or very specific, dramatic features. It’s not just about having a certain shape, but about the *degree* to which that shape manifests.
Beyond the Rarest: Other Unique Eye Characteristics
While we're focused on shape, it's worth briefly touching upon other unique eye characteristics that, when combined with a less common shape, can create an even more extraordinary appearance:
- Heterochromia: This is a condition where a person has different colored irises, or different colored parts within the same iris. While not an eye shape, it's a rare characteristic that can make eyes incredibly distinctive.
- Coloboma: A congenital condition where a part of the iris is missing, creating a keyhole-like pupil. This is a rare ocular abnormality.
- Deep-Set vs. Protruding Eyes: While deep-set eyes are mentioned, eyes that protrude significantly (proptosis or exophthalmos) are also less common and can drastically alter the perceived eye shape and facial expression.
- The "Baby Doll" Eye: This is a descriptive term often used for large, round eyes that appear very wide open, sometimes giving a doll-like innocence. While round eyes are common, this specific, amplified impression can be less so.
These features, even if not strictly about shape, contribute to the overall perception of an eye's uniqueness and, by extension, the rarity of the particular combination.
The "Monolid" Debate: Commonality and Variation
The term "monolid" itself refers to the absence of a visible supratarsal crease (the eyelid crease). While this is a common trait in East Asian populations, it’s crucial to understand the spectrum. Some individuals have a very subtle crease that only appears when they squint, while others have a completely smooth eyelid. The rarity emerges not in the presence of a monolid, but in specific proportions.
Consider the epicanthic fold. When a pronounced epicanthic fold combines with a very narrow monolid, it can create an effect that is less common than a broader monolid with less prominent folds. My understanding from observing various facial features is that the degree of fold and the narrowness of the lid space are key differentiators. It’s about the intensity of the characteristic. A subtle monolid might be quite common, but a dramatically narrow and angular monolid is less so.
Why Does Eye Shape Matter in Perception?
Our eyes are often called the "windows to the soul," and their shape plays a significant role in how we perceive expressions, emotions, and even personality. Different eye shapes can convey subtly different impressions:
- Almond eyes are often associated with alertness, confidence, and a balanced, harmonious appearance.
- Round eyes can convey innocence, curiosity, and expressiveness.
- Hooded eyes can sometimes be perceived as mysterious, contemplative, or even tired, depending on the degree of the hood.
- Upturned eyes are often linked to a cheerful, friendly, or "seductive" look.
- Downturned eyes can be associated with a softer, more empathetic, or sometimes melancholic appearance.
- The rarer shapes, like the dramatic "fishtail" or deeply set, narrow eyes, often evoke a sense of intensity, exoticism, or striking individuality.
This is, of course, subjective and influenced by cultural perceptions and personal biases. However, the distinct visual cues provided by different eye shapes undeniably contribute to how we read facial expressions.
The "Fishtail" Eye: A Deeper Dive into its Rarity
Let's circle back to the "fishtail" or "phoenix" eye shape, which I believe is a strong contender for the rarest eye shape. What makes it so unique? It's a combination of factors that work in concert:
- Exaggerated Upturn: The most defining characteristic is the extreme upward slant of the outer corner of the eye. This isn't a gentle lift; it's a pronounced, almost sharp, upward sweep.
- Elongated Appearance: This upward pull often results in an eye that appears significantly longer and narrower than average, with a distinct almond or even pointed shape at the outer corner.
- Lower Lid Curve: The lower eyelid often follows this upward curve, creating a smooth, continuous line from the inner to the outer corner, further enhancing the elongated, lifted effect.
- Inner Corner Angle: While the outer corner is dramatically upturned, the inner corner typically remains at a neutral or slightly downturned angle, creating a stark contrast and emphasizing the upward lift.
- Potential for Epicanthic Fold Interaction: In individuals of Asian descent who might also have epicanthic folds, the interaction between the fold and the extreme upward slant can create a unique variation of this rare shape, sometimes referred to as a "dragon eye" or "phoenix eye" in East Asian aesthetics.
The genetic blueprint for such a specific and exaggerated angle is not commonly found. It requires a particular arrangement of the orbital bones, the tension and insertion points of the eyelid muscles (like the levator palpebrae superioris and the orbicularis oculi), and the elasticity of the skin. While upturned eyes are common, the *degree* of upturn in a fishtail eye is what sets it apart. It's an extreme manifestation that is beautiful precisely because of its rarity.
I’ve seen this shape on actors and models, and it always commands attention. It’s a feature that doesn’t blend in; it stands out boldly. This striking quality is, in my opinion, a strong indicator of its rarity.
Could It Be "Mono-Eyed"? A Misconception to Clarify
Sometimes, in discussions about unusual eye shapes, people might mistakenly refer to something as "mono-eyed." This term is not a recognized eye shape. It might stem from a misunderstanding of terms like "monolid" or from observing eyes that are very narrow and closely set, creating a singular impression.
It’s important to distinguish between distinct eye shapes and medical conditions. Conditions like cyclopia, where an individual is born with a single eye socket, are extremely rare and not a "shape" in the way we categorize natural human eye forms. Therefore, when discussing the rarest *natural* eye shape, "mono-eyed" is not a valid category.
How to Identify Your Own Eye Shape
Understanding your own eye shape can be a fun exercise in self-discovery. Here's a simple guide:
A Step-by-Step Guide to Identifying Your Eye Shape
- Find Good Lighting: Stand in front of a mirror in bright, natural light.
- Pull Back Your Hair: Ensure your forehead and eyebrows are visible.
- Look Straight Ahead: Relax your facial muscles and look directly into the mirror.
- Observe the Eyelid Crease:
- Visible Crease: Do you see a distinct crease that runs across your upper eyelid?
- No Visible Crease (Monolid): Does your eyelid appear smooth without a defined crease?
- Hooded: Does skin from your brow bone hang over your eyelid crease, making it less visible or disappearing when your eyes are open?
- Examine the Corners:
- Inner Corner: Is it rounded or pointed?
- Outer Corner: Does it slant upwards, downwards, or is it level?
- Assess the Overall Shape:
- Round: Is your eye as tall as it is wide, with a circular appearance?
- Almond: Is it elongated, wider in the middle, and tapering at both corners, with the outer corner slightly higher than the inner?
- Upturned: Is there a significant upward slant at the outer corner?
- Downturned: Is there a significant downward slant at the outer corner?
- Consider Eye Spacing: Are your eyes set close together, wide apart, or are they a proportional distance apart (roughly one eye width)?
- Note Any Unique Features: Do you have prominent epicanthic folds? Are your eyes particularly deep-set or do they appear to protrude?
My own experience: When I first tried this, I realized my eyes had characteristics of both almond and hooded shapes. The crease was visible but partially obscured by my brow bone, and the outer corners had a slight upward tilt. It’s a reminder that most of us fall into a unique blend of these categories.
The Rarity of "Unique" - Embracing Individuality
Ultimately, the concept of "rarest eye shape" is fascinating, but perhaps more important is the celebration of individual uniqueness. While certain extreme shapes are statistically less common, every person's eyes are distinct. The slight asymmetry, the specific curve of the lid, the precise angle of the corners – these all contribute to a one-of-a-kind gaze.
The beauty of human features lies in their diversity. The eye shapes we've discussed as rare are not necessarily "better" or "more desirable" than common ones. They are simply less frequently encountered. Their rarity often lends them an air of distinction and captivating allure.
My personal take is that the appreciation for eye shapes, especially the rare ones, goes beyond just a label. It’s about recognizing the intricate genetic tapestry that creates such varied and beautiful human faces. The "fishtail" eye, the deeply set narrow eye, or even the unique proportions of a monolid – these are all testaments to the incredible diversity of human form.
Frequently Asked Questions About Eye Shapes
What is the most common eye shape?
The most common eye shape is generally considered to be the **almond eye**. This shape is characterized by its balanced proportions – wider in the center and tapering towards both the inner and outer corners. Typically, the outer corners are slightly higher than the inner corners, creating a subtly lifted appearance. This shape is widely recognized and seen across many different ethnicities and populations globally, making it the benchmark against which other shapes are often compared.
The prevalence of almond eyes can be attributed to a combination of genetic factors that have been widespread throughout human populations. Their balanced and harmonious appearance is often considered aesthetically pleasing, further contributing to their commonality in various cultural beauty standards. While variations exist within the almond eye category (e.g., more elongated, more rounded), the fundamental almond structure is by far the most frequently observed.
Are hooded eyes considered rare?
No, **hooded eyes are not considered rare**. In fact, they are quite common. Hooded eyes are defined by a fold of skin that comes down from the brow bone and covers the eyelid crease when the eye is open. This can make the visible eyelid space appear smaller. This characteristic is prevalent across various ethnicities and is not an unusual feature. While the *degree* of hooding can vary significantly – from very subtle to very pronounced – the presence of a hooded eye shape itself is a common variation in human anatomy.
My own observation is that hooded eyes are so common that makeup techniques are specifically designed to accentuate or work with this eye shape. This widespread presence means they are far from being rare. The defining feature is the overhanging skin, which affects how the eyelid is seen, but it's a widely distributed trait.
What makes an eye shape rare?
An eye shape becomes rare when it deviates significantly from the most common forms due to extreme proportions, unique combinations of features, or a very specific genetic predisposition. Rarity is typically associated with:
- Exaggerated Features: Such as a dramatically upturned outer corner (like the "fishtail" or "phoenix" eye) or a pronounced downturn.
- Unusual Proportions: Eyes that are exceptionally narrow or exceptionally round, or very deep-set combined with extreme narrowness.
- Specific Combinations: For instance, a monolid combined with very narrow eyes and a small intercanthal distance.
- Absence of Common Features (in specific contexts): While monolid eyes are common in some populations, their presence in populations where an eyelid crease is the norm would be a significant deviation.
- Genetic Rarity: The underlying genetic blueprint for creating these extreme or unique shapes is simply less common in the general population.
Essentially, if an eye shape requires a very specific set of genetic instructions to form that is not widely replicated across humanity, it will be considered rare.
Is the "fishtail" or "phoenix" eye shape the rarest?
Based on descriptive terms used in aesthetics and popular culture, the **"fishtail" or "phoenix" eye shape is frequently cited as one of the rarest** and most striking. This is due to its highly distinctive and exaggerated upturned outer corner, creating a dramatic, elongated, and lifted appearance that is a significant departure from more common almond or upturned eye shapes. The precise genetic arrangement required for such an extreme upward slant is uncommon, making it a rare and captivating feature.
While precise statistical data is hard to come by for such descriptive terms, the visual impact and distinctive nature of the fishtail eye strongly suggest its rarity. It’s a shape that is instantly recognizable for its dramatic lift and elongation, a feature that is not commonly found in the general population. Its striking quality makes it stand out, and this distinctiveness is often a hallmark of rarity.
Are monolid eyes rare?
Monolid eyes, characterized by the absence of a visible eyelid crease, are **not rare overall**. They are a common and prominent feature in many East Asian populations. However, like any eye shape, there is a spectrum. While the presence of a monolid is common within certain ethnic groups, specific proportions or combinations can make certain *types* of monolid eyes less common. For example, an extremely narrow monolid combined with very close-set eyes might be less frequently observed than a broader monolid with more typical spacing.
So, to clarify: the trait of having a monolid is common in many parts of the world. But the *specific manifestation* of that monolid, in terms of its width, the degree of epicanthic fold present, and its relation to other facial features, can lead to variations that are less common. It’s important to differentiate between the general presence of a monolid and specific, more extreme variations of it.
How can epicanthic folds affect perceived eye shape and rarity?
Epicanthic folds are extra folds of skin running from the upper eyelid to the lower eyelid, often covering the inner corner of the eye. While common in many populations (particularly East Asian, Southeast Asian, and Indigenous American), the **degree and prominence of these folds can significantly influence the perceived eye shape and contribute to rarity in specific contexts.**
When epicanthic folds are very pronounced, they can:
- Make eyes appear narrower: They can shorten the visible length of the eye.
- Create a more pronounced slant: The upward pull of the fold can accentuate an upturned or almond shape, or even contribute to a more uniquely angled appearance.
- Make eyes appear closer set: The coverage of the inner corner can reduce the perceived distance between the eyes.
- Obscure the inner corner: The precise definition of the inner corner can be less distinct.
The rarity aspect comes into play when these folds are exceptionally strong, creating a dramatically different appearance than what is typically seen even within populations where epicanthic folds are common. For instance, a very large and pronounced epicanthic fold on an otherwise conventionally shaped eye could be considered a rare and striking feature. Conversely, in populations where epicanthic folds are rare, their presence would be considered highly unusual and thus rare.
Are deep-set eyes rare?
Deep-set eyes themselves are **not considered rare**. This eye shape is characterized by the brow bone being more prominent, causing the eyes to appear further back in the eye socket and often casting a shadow over them. This feature is relatively common across various ethnic groups. However, when deep-set eyes are combined with other extreme characteristics, such as exceptional narrowness or very pronounced brow bone prominence, the resulting appearance can be quite distinctive and less common, bordering on rare.
My personal observations suggest that while the general deep-set characteristic is common, the extreme manifestation – where the eyes are set very far back and are also very narrow and angular – is what makes it a rarer presentation. It's the confluence of these traits that elevates it beyond the common. So, in their basic form, no, deep-set eyes are not rare; it's the extreme variations that are.