World's oldest eyeliner discovered! It's over 8,000 years old
Archeologists have unearthed the world's oldest known eyeliner from a prehistoric city in Turkey, proving that humans used makeup over 8,000 years ago. The artifact, a kohl stick still popular today, was discovered in Yesilova Hoyuk, an old settlement in western Turkey. Remarkably, the green serpentine stone tool retains traces of black paint on its tip even after 8,200 years.
Lead archaeologist shares insights on ancient makeup usage
Lead archaeologist Zafer Derin emphasized the discovery's significance by noting that kohl has been used for centuries by people of all statuses, genders, and socioeconomic levels. He noted that kohl has been used globally in regions such as Egypt, the Levant, Syria, Iran, and Anatolia. Derin added that this ancient kohl stick from Yesilova Hoyuk is "the oldest known example ever found," shedding light on the beauty practices of early Aegean women.
Details of the ancient kohl stick revealed
The kohl stick, found within a Neolithic layer dating back 8,200 years, was found in Yesilova Hoyuk, an ancient site in Izmir, Turkey. Measuring about 10 cm long and a centimeter thick, it is among various artifacts made by the people of Yesilova Hoyuk. Dr. Zafer Derin described the tool as "very well smoothed and shaped into a sharp pen," indicating its careful crafting and use for beauty purposes.
Kohl stick's dual purpose in ancient times
The kohl stick was likely dipped into a container of kohl for makeup application. The black material at the tip, believed to be manganese oxide, a component of kohl, has been sent for analysis. However, Dr. Zafer Derin pointed out that its use may not have been purely cosmetic. He mentioned that, as evidenced by various written texts, paintings, and sculptures from ancient Egypt, kohl was primarily used for treating eye diseases rather than for aesthetic purposes.
Protective power of kohl
Surma, or kohl, is renowned for its medicinal and beauty benefits, primarily used to treat eye ailments and enhance eye health. This ultra-fine powder of galena, known as "kohl stone," is valued for its therapeutic healing properties, incorporating herbs such as neem, saffron, and fennel extract. Modern studies reveal that kohl effectively shields the eyes from harmful UV rays, as its black galena particles form a protective layer on the lenses, promoting overall eye wellness and protection.
