Most of us wake up with a little something in the corner of our eyes—yellow, crusty, sticky, or flaky. Many people barely notice it… until they suddenly wonder what it actually is. Recently, social media users have been shocked (and a bit grossed out) after learning the truth behind this common morning mystery.
Here’s what that “eye gunk” really is—and why it’s completely normal.
What Is the Yellow Stuff?
The yellowish crust in your eyes when you wake up is called eye discharge or rheum. It’s a mix of:
- Tears
- Skin cells
- Oils produced by your eyelids
- Dust or tiny particles
- Dried mucus from your tear ducts
Your eyes produce this mixture all day long—but during the day, blinking constantly washes it away. At night, when your eyes are closed and not blinking, the discharge collects in the corners of your eyes… creating the familiar “sleep” or “eye crust” you see in the morning.
Why We Produce It
Your eyes create this discharge because they’re constantly working to stay clean and protected. While you sleep:
1. Your eyes flush out particles
Dust, allergens, and microscopic debris are captured and removed while you rest.
2. Your eyelids produce protective oils
These oils prevent your tears from evaporating too quickly, but they also contribute to the crusty buildup.
3. Your eyes stay moist
The discharge helps prevent dryness and irritation overnight.
In short: it’s part of your body’s natural cleaning system.
