What was the primary use of kohl make-up in ancient Egypt?

In ancient Egypt, kohl makeup was primarily used to heavily line the eyes and serve as a protective measure against the harsh sunlight. The dark pigment helped to reduce glare and provided a way to shield the eyes from the sun's brightness. Additionally, the ingredients in kohl were believed to have medicinal benefits, such as preventing eye infections, which was particularly important in the arid Egyptian climate.

Using kohl also had aesthetic and cultural significance, as it was associated with beauty and status among Egyptians. The bold eye makeup helped define the eyes, making them appear larger and more dramatic, which was highly valued in ancient Egyptian beauty standards. Thus, kohl served both a functional and ornamental purpose in their daily lives and rituals.