Microbiologist observes tears under a microscope and it's so magnificent people are crying

Have you ever wondered what tears look like up close? Microbiologist Chloé Savard, who goes by the username @tardibabe on Instagram, recently shared images revealing the stunning crystalline structures that form when tears dry, and the results took the internet by surprise. She wrote in the caption, "If this is what they look like, no one deserves them," alongside mesmerizing microscopic photos.

She also explained in the caption how tears form this structure. According to her, as a tear dries up, "a beautiful frozen landscape is created." Since tears are salty, the water evaporates and leaves behind intricate salt crystal formations. She wrote, "Not only do we shed tears when experiencing emotions, but tears are also released every time we blink," emphasizing that their role extends far beyond crying. She explained that tears contain a carefully balanced mix of electrolytes, proteins, lipids, and mucins.

She also described how electrolytes like sodium, chloride, calcium, and potassium "are important for maintaining pH stability and normal osmotic pressure," which also leads to the creation of stunning crystalline patterns under a microscope. She pointed out that some proteins in tears are antimicrobial, while others help with wound healing and inflammation regulation. She further broke down the composition of tears, explaining that lipids, including cholesterol and phospholipids, prevent water from evaporating too quickly. "Can you see some small oily droplets floating around?" she asked, pointing out their presence in the microscopic images.

Mucins, which are large glycoproteins, help spread tears evenly over the eye. She shared that tears also have a layered structure with the outer layer containing lipids to prevent drying, the middle layer made of water to keep the eye hydrated, and the inner layer composed of mucus to help the tear film adhere to the eye. She explained, "All of these elements aren’t just randomly sitting in water," revealing how tears are structured for optimal eye health. She concluded, "Tears also form a barrier against foreign particles like dust or dirt and protect your eyes from pathogens like evil bacteria or viruses. There are even white blood cells secreting antibodies in your tears! These guys are always at work for you; how sweet."

The post’s stunning visuals and detailed breakdown left social media users in awe. @cat925jewelry said, "Interesting! And such beautiful patterns they make!" @crystaljewelryaffair added, "Wow. We are cryin’ snowflakes, it looks like. Love all the info about the layers!" @jjewlls noted, "Who knew I was making beautiful art every time I cried." @painminusharm wrote, "These are haunting and beautiful! Truly, I am wondering what the tears from other creatures look like!"

Many were curious if different kinds of tears appear different under the microscope. @he_quiet_tide_leisek wrote, "Would be interesting to see happy tears and sad tears, tears of laughter and tears of grief." @nits9271 commented, "Beautiful. I read somewhere that tears caused due to emotional distress are thicker than those caused by irritation so they run down our faces slower to make others notice. Do you find a difference in composition between the two? Happy tears, please." @fatma136_ noted, "I bet tears of happiness are different from tears of sadness."

You can follow Chloé Savard (@tardibabe ) for more microbiology content.