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Ancient Egyptians used a variety of cosmetics such as eye make up, rouge and perfumed oils that softened the skin and prevented burning in the sun and damage from the sandy winds. Galena powder possesses disinfectant and fly-deterrent properties. It is believed to offer the eyes protection from intense sun.
The smoky kohl liner served both practical and ritualistic purposes. It was thought to repel flies, protect the eyes from the Sun's rays and ward off infection. Makeup helped to imitate the looks of the gods. Favorite eye make up colors were black and green and outlining the eyes with pigment was deliberately done to created an almond or feline shape.
Eye make up provided psychic protection as well. The Egyptian word for eye-palette seems to derive from their word for "protect." An unadorned and thus unprotected eye was believed vulnerable to the Evil Eye. Outlining the eyes thus became a personal protective amulet drawn right upon the skin; an amulet that once applied could not be lost or misplaced. Makeup was believed to have magical healing powers.
Although cosmetics were certainly used for the purpose of beautification, in ancient Egypt, eye makeup did more than paint a pretty face.
