Eye boogers, or the mucus that collects in the corner of the eye and on the lashes, come from normal eye discharge. This discharge is made up of a mix of mucus (rheum), oils from the eyelids, skin cells, and any dust or debris that gets into the eye. Blinking helps clear or distribute this fluid, and while you’re asleep you don’t blink as often, so the discharge can accumulate and dry into “sleep” or crusty flakes by morning. Brief explanation of why it happens
- Normal eye protection: The eye continually produces mucus to trap and remove irritants, keep the surface moist, and protect against bacteria and dust.
- Sleep-time buildup: Overnight, reduced blinking means more time for mucus and oils to accumulate and dry, forming the familiar morning crust.
- Variations by person and conditions: Some people produce more discharge due to allergies, irritants (like cosmetics or contact lenses), or a mild infection, while others may have very little discharge.
When to be concerned
- If the discharge is thick, yellow-green, or accompanied by eye pain, redness, sensitivity to light, or vision changes, it could indicate an infection or inflammatory condition and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
- If you notice persistent crusting that doesn’t clear with good eye hygiene, or if you wear contact lenses and experience ongoing discharge or discomfort, seek care.
Simple care tips
- Gentle cleaning: Use a clean, warm, damp cloth to wipe away crusts from the inner corner outward. Avoid rubbing the eye itself.
- Hygiene: Wash hands before touching your eyes or removing makeup, and remove eye makeup at the end of the day to reduce debris buildup.
- Eye products: If you use cosmetics or contact lenses, ensure they’re clean and properly fitted; consider reducing usage if you notice increased discharge.
- Seek timely advice: If you’re unsure about the cause of the discharge or if symptoms worsen, consult a healthcare professional, especially if there’s pain, redness, or changes in vision.
If you’d like, I can tailor this to your situation (for example, if you wear contacts, have allergies, or notice a change in discharge patterns).
