In Ancient Egypt as today, women have used a black powder known as kohl to outline their eyes, stave off eye infections, reduce glare and improve their eyesight. The kohl that they used then was a blend of burnt almonds, copper, malachite, antimony, ash and ochre.
In the 7th and 8th centuries BC, the Greeks used what they called 'fucus', a mineral substance derived from lapis luzuli and malachite to produce vibrant blues and greens. Fucus and other beautifying substances formed an important part of the Greek economy at the time.
With the expansion of their empire, the Romans were introduced to the Iranians who, like the Egyptians, used kohl to fend off the attentions of the evil eye. They adapted the sacred oils for use in sexual practices. Eventually, they discovered medicinal and spiritual uses for the materials.
In Bronze Age India, kohl was used by everyone, including infants, to repel glare, bacterial infection as well as the evil eye. Then, kohl was made of lead and antimony. The use of this substance spread to Morocco and other African countries. Safer starting materials are used in modern kohl.
Modern mineral eyeshadow is available in every color imaginable to match hair color, outfit and mood. The sky is the limit in the cosmetic universe and there is almost nothing that can't be powdered, pressed and used as makeup. Dry powder may be brushed on the lids, or it may be dampened with water for a more vibrant effect.
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