DUBLIN—Allergan plc (NYSE: AGN) today announced the results of an online “eye language survey” in which approximately one-half of respondents (53 percent) said the eyes are the first facial feature they notice about another person.

The "A Look at Eye Language" online survey, which included responses from 1,019 adult Americans, was conducted by Kelton Global on behalf of Allergan in support of the company’s Eyepowerment campaign to raise awareness for chronic dry eye disease. Research shows the eyes provide a powerful form of nonverbal communication about who we are and what we feel, according to Allergan’s announcement. To help interpret eye language, Allergan partnered with Patti Wood, a body language expert with more than 25 years of experience.

“Eye language is a powerful form of communication that can reveal a lot about us, but chronic dry eye symptoms like red or itchy eyes may unintentionally interfere with the message you want to send,” Wood said in the announcement. "My passion for interpreting our eye language aligns perfectly with Allergan's Eyepowerment campaign, which aims to empower people who might be experiencing symptoms of chronic dry eye to learn more about chronic dry eye and talk to their doctor about treatment options."

Additional survey findings included:

• Approximately 97 percent of respondents said they are comfortable making eye contact with those that they know
• Those who see the value in maintaining eye contact say holding a direct gaze makes them feel respected (53 percent), understood (45 percent) or appreciated (44 percent)
• Many feel eye behavior creates a shared connection (36 percent), leaves a positive impression (35 percent) and increases one's likeability (29 percent)
• Women are more likely than men to feel eye behavior shows sincerity (53 percent vs. 41 percent) and creates a shared connection (42 percent vs. 30 percent)
• Approximately half of Americans (57 percent) can tell if someone is listening by looking into their eyes

More info is posted on the Eyepowerment site.