The common reflex action in the eye usually called is the "corneal reflex," also known as the "blink reflex" or "eyelid reflex." This reflex is an involuntary blinking of the eyelids triggered by stimulation of the cornea, such as touching or the presence of a foreign body. The purpose of the corneal reflex is to protect the eyes from injury and bright lights. It occurs very rapidly, within about 0.1 seconds, and involves both eyes blinking even if only one eye is stimulated (a consensual response). The reflex pathway includes the trigeminal nerve for sensing the stimulus and the facial nerve for initiating the blink response. This reflex is essential for eye protection and is commonly tested in neurological examinations.

Other notable reflexes in the eye include the pupillary light reflex, which adjusts pupil size in response to light, and the optokinetic reflex, but the corneal reflex is the primary common reflex action protecting the eye itself.