Internal limiting membrane(ILM)peeling is commonly used in the operation of idiopathic macular hole(IMH)surgery. The success of ILM peeling has been greatly improved with the assistance of vital dyes. Currently, several kinds of vital dyes such as indocyanine green(ICG), brilliant blue G(BBG)are applied in the ILM staining. However, all of the vital dyes have potential toxicity and side effects on the retina. In recent years, many kinds of dyes and staining improved emerge in endlessly. This paper reports the progress in the application of different colorants in the operation of IMH.