Ancient Egyptian makeup was used to protect eyes from the desert sun

History
Ancient Egyptian makeup was used to protect eyes from the desert sun

Ancient Egyptians wore thick black kohl eyeliner not just for beauty, but as a practical tool to deflect the sun's harsh glare and prevent painful eye infections.

The iconic dark eyeliner known as kohl served as a vital shield against the intense North African climate. By applying lead-based minerals around their eyes, Egyptians created a barrier that absorbed sunlight and reduced glare, much like the eye black used by modern athletes.

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