Albinism typically manifests through characteristic changes in skin, hair, and eye color, as well as various visual impairments. The primary signs and symptoms of albinism usually include:

* Skin: This is the most recognized feature of albinism. Individuals often present with very light-colored skin and hair compared to their family members. Skin and hair pigmentation can range from white to brown, and in some cases, may be similar to that of non-affected parents or siblings. In ocular albinism, skin involvement may be less pronounced. Pigmentation can increase with age and sun exposure, leading to some tanning.
* Freckles and Moles: Pigmented or typically pink, unpigmented moles may be present. Lentigo-like (freckle-like) spots can also be observed.
* Hair: Hair color varies from white to brown. Individuals of African or Asian descent with albinism may have yellow, reddish-brown, or brown hair. Environmental factors and mineral exposure over time can cause hair discoloration or a gradual darkening with age.
* Eye Color: Eyelashes and eyebrows in individuals with albinism are often pale. Eye color can range from very light blue to brown. Due to a lack of pigment in the iris, it may appear translucent. This translucency allows light to scatter within the eye, leading to reduced visual acuity. Consequently, very light-colored eyes may appear reddish in certain lighting conditions.
* Vision Impairment: This is one of the most significant symptoms for individuals with albinism. Common ocular issues associated with albinism include:
* Reduced visual acuity
* Partial or complete vision loss
* Photophobia (light sensitivity) due to light scattering within the eye
* Abnormal crossing of optic nerve fibers, leading to misrouting of visual information from the retina
* Nystagmus (rapid, involuntary eye movements)
* Head movements, such as head bobbing or tilting, to reduce involuntary eye movements and improve vision
* Strabismus (crossed eyes or misaligned eyes), where both eyes cannot focus on the same point simultaneously
* Refractive errors like myopia (nearsightedness) or hyperopia (farsightedness)
* Astigmatism (blurred vision caused by an abnormal curvature of the front surface of the eye or the lens inside the eye)
* Poor depth perception