Unraveling the Egyptian Eye Makeup Mystery

You can learn and unravel a lot of things about the different cultures existing many years ago. You may even discover that some of the things you are currently using have been handed down to you from the past generations.

The Application of Makeup

At present time, the cosmetics industry is experiencing a continuous growth in its sales. This may be surmised given that there are different product lines that are constantly being introduced in the market. Makeup is a lucrative business to go into particularly eye makeup.

Eye Makeup Origin

Ancient Egypt is believed to be one of the precursors, if not the pioneer, of eye makeup. If you have the time to view Egyptian art forms, your attention would be directed quickly to the Egyptian face or faces before you. You will notice that generally, the people drawn in the pictures usually have ornamented eyes.

Studies show that Egyptian eye makeup embodies a holistic view. The preparations undertaken in using makeup on their faces were not limited to merely ornamental or decorative purposes. It represents the ancient Egypt’s spiritual and medicinal customs as well. Egyptian eye makeup serves as a protective shield or a personal amulet against the evil spirits.

According to their belief, an unadorned eye corresponds to an unprotected eye. This will make a person vulnerable to what they refer to as the “Evil Eye”.

The Cats Eye

The early Egyptians displayed great reverence to cats. Their eyes were cosmetically enhanced to look the same way. The darkened, almond shaped eyes, is similar to a cat’s eyes.

Kinds of Egyptian Eye Makeup

The ancient Egyptians classified their makeup into two kinds – mesdemet and udju. The former is a lead ore, which is dark gray in color. It is a derivative of another element galena or stibnite. The latter comes from copper, more specifically green malachite.

Galena is said to be effective in protecting the eyes from the intense heat of the sun. It acts as a disinfectant as well. It contains properties that are helpful as a fly-deterrent.

Egyptian Mascara

Kohl was the main ingredient used by the Egyptians to make their eyelashes appear darker. It can also add length and volume to the lashes. Kohl was probably derived from charcoal or soot, galena or malachite.

Makeup Preparation

The ancient Egyptians did not have any of the modern equipments used by the cosmetics players of today. They had to make do with what they have. Kitchen utensils were utilized to mix their makeup preparations. These include grinders, applicators and especially palettes.

Kohl Makeup

If you want to put on an Egyptian look then you need to use kohl for authenticity. Using it yourself could be tricky though since you will be utilizing a stick to apply it on your eyelids. It would be better that you ask for a professional’s help in applying it. If you think you are capable of doing it on your own, try to ask for tips on how to do it correctly.