1. Home
  2. Knowledge Base
  3. The Eye
  4. Sclera and conjunctiva

Sclera and conjunctiva

Overview

The sclera, also known as the “white of the eye”, is the outermost layer of the eye. It is a thick and fibrous layer consisting predominantly of a type of protein called collagen. Its strength helps maintain the shape of the eyeball and protects the internal structures from trauma. The sclera is covered by a thin transparent membrane called the conjunctiva. It keeps the surface of the eye moist and offers further protection to the eye.

A face on view of the front of the eyeball demonstrating the location of the sclera, which is the white of the eye.
Location of sclera
Updated on July 23, 2020

Was this article helpful?