Objective To compare the expression of lysyloxidase like 1 (LOXL-1) in normal conjunctiva tissues and pterygium, and explore the influence and significance of LOXL-1 in the course of pterygium development. Methods Using immunohistochemistry, LOXL-1 expression in normal conjunctiva tissues (19 cases) and pterygium(25 cases) was examined, optical density value was detected. Then test was carried out. Results The optical density value in the normal conjunctiva tissues was lower than that in the pterygium (P < 0.05). Conclusions The expression of LOXL-1 in pterygium is higher than that in normal conjunctiva tissues. LOXL-1 plays an important role in promoting the development of pterygium.