The eyelids are thin, mobile folds that cover the eyeball anteriorly. They offer protection from excessive light or injury, and maintain lubrication by distributing tears over the surface of the eyeball. The eyelids are split into upper and lower portions, which meet at the medial and lateral canthi of the eye. The opening between the two eyelids is called the palpebral aperture or opening. Eyelashes, the short hairs that grow at the end of your eyelid, are meant to protect your eyes from dust and debris. The glands at the base of your lashes also help lubricate your eyes when you blink.