Kohl Through the Ages: A Heritage of Beauty Meets Modern Black Friday Savings

Kohl: a single product with centuries of beauty, mystery, and cultural significance.

For centuries, kohl has been more than a cosmetic. It is a symbol of heritage, identity, and cultural pride, transcending borders and generations. From its origins in ancient Africa to its widespread use across the Middle East, South Asia, and beyond, kohl remains a timeless emblem of beauty and spirituality. But with modern safety concerns, many wonder how to embrace its magic while ensuring its safety. This Black Friday, we explore the history of kohl and share our picks on modern alternatives that let you honor tradition with confidence

The Origins of Kohl: Africa’s Legacy in Black

Kohl’s story begins in Africa, where it played a central role in beauty and protection rituals. In ancient Egypt, galena—a natural mineral rich in lead—was mixed with oils or fats to create the iconic black pigment.

Applied to the eyes by both men and women, it was believed to ward off evil spirits, protect against the harsh glare of the sun, and even offer medicinal benefits.

“Kohl was as much about functionality as it was about beauty,” explains Dr. Lina Farouk, a historian of African and Middle Eastern beauty practices. “It embodied resilience and identity, connecting its wearers to their community and their spirituality.” 

This transformative cosmetic spread across North Africa, where Berber communities incorporated it into cultural ceremonies, and to West Africa, where it became a staple in rites of passage. Even today, in parts of the Sahel and North Africa, kohl is worn as a symbol of heritage and identity. 

Pro Tip: For a modern nod to this history, try the Neutrogena Smokey Kohl Eyeliner ($6.99). Its warm, rich tones echo the depth of traditional kohl while offering a safe, contemporary formula.

Kohl’s Global Influence

From Africa, kohl journeyed across the Middle East and South Asia, becoming a beauty staple. Known as kajal in South Asia, it was used for its aesthetic appeal and protective qualities, often applied to babies to ward off the “evil eye.” In the Middle East, kohl’s cultural ties run deep, symbolizing lineage and timeless elegance.

By the time kohl reached Europe, it was reimagined for Western beauty trends but retained its essence—a bold, defining statement. Today, kohl remains a universal symbol of beauty and identity, a testament to its African roots and global resonance.

Pro Tip: For a global twist on tradition, try MAC Kohl Power Eye Pencil ($24.80). This smudge-friendly option delivers rich pigment with a luxurious, modern touch.

Why Kohl is Still a Must-Have

For many, wearing kohl is also an act of cultural preservation. However, traditional formulations made with galena raise health concerns due to their lead content. Thankfully, modern beauty brands now offer lead-free alternatives that honor kohl’s legacy without compromising on safety.

Check out Maybelline Tattoo Studio Automatic Gel Pencil ($7.98): A waterproof, gel-based eyeliner for precise, long-lasting kohl-inspired definition.