What was kohl makeup originally made from?

Kohl makeup, which has a long history in various cultures, particularly in ancient Egypt, was originally made from ground galena, sulfur, and animal fat. Galena is a natural mineral form of lead sulfide, which has historically been used to create a dark pigment for the eyes. This mixture not only provided the desired color but also had practical benefits, such as protecting the eyes from the harsh sun and reducing eye infections. The sulfur component may have helped in providing some antibacterial properties, while the animal fat served as a binding agent to help the mixture adhere to the skin. The traditional use of kohl speaks to its significance in beauty rituals and cultural practices throughout history.