Kohl, also known as kajal, provides that thick dramatic line around the eyes for either Middle-Eastern mystique or Bollywood flair. It can be worn by men or women out of tradition and for health reasons.
One of the most well-known examples of traditional kohl is mesdemet, made from ground stibnite (lead sulfide). Today, many manufacturers use alternative ingredients like carbon or plant oils and soot.
What is Kohl?
Kohl is a cosmetic liner that provides that thick dramatic rim around the eyes. It’s worn by both men and women, not only for vanity but also out of tradition or belief that it prevents the evil eye curse.
In ancient times, kohl was made from a rock called galena that contained lead sulfide. Artisans ground it into a fine powder and mixed in additives such as almonds and soot to achieve the desired consistency. The wealthy kept their kohl in ornate boxes that were decorated with jewels and other precious materials.
Modern-day kohl is typically a powdered formula that can be used with a stick or brush. It’s primarily used by women and children for traditional and/or religious purposes. For example, mothers often apply kohl to their newborns’ eyes in the belief that it will protect them from the evil eye. Others wear it for cultural or themed events like dressing up as Cleopatra.
Types of Kohls
Kohl’s department store chain has over 1,100 stores in 49 states (except for Hawaii). It’s best known for its clothing and accessories, but it also offers a wide range of other products. The company has a huge selection of name-brand sporting goods, including Adidas, Nike, and Fila Sport. They also have a wide variety of shoes, sports accessories, and even kitchen items.
Kohls’ active assortment features brands sought after by customers like Nike, Under Armour, and Columbia. Its fashion brand portfolio includes SONOMA Goods for Life, SO, Nine West, Simply Vera Vera Wang, and Croft & Barrow.
Kohl’s app keeps customers connected to the brand with a mobile shopping experience. They can manage their Kohl’s card, find coupons and rewards, and make payments on the go. The store also has a weekly circular that highlights sales, specials and bargains. The company is also committed to sustainability by reducing carbon emissions and increasing energy efficiency. It also has a strong focus on community outreach programs.
Authentic Kohls
Kohls is a department store that sells a variety of products including beauty, home, apparel, and shoes. It has a long-term partnership with Sephora, and you can find many of Sephora’s bestselling products at Kohl’s stores and on the company’s website. All perfume from Kohl’s is authentic and comes directly from the brand or a reputable distributor.
Kohl, also called mesdemet, was once a black pigment made from ground minerals, often stibnite (the mineral form of antimony), mixed with soot. It was used as makeup by men and women in ancient Egypt for ritual and religious reasons. Archeologists have found that hieroglyphics on kohl containers sometimes describe their contents and can even seem to promote them, says anthropologist Jolanda Bos.
The kohl eye liner in this product is handmade in Morocco from 100% natural frankincense gum smug and packed in a traditional olive wood case. This is a fair trade product that enables women from a rural area to make a living from this business.
Safety Concerns
Kohl has long been used to darken the eyelids and eyebrows of both women and men in many cultures throughout the world. Its use is particularly prevalent in north Africa, the Middle East, and parts of South Asia. It is also used by Muslims to mark the forehead and the nose for prayer. It is known by several different names, including kl, kajal, surma, and tiro.
The kohls used by the ancient Egyptians contained lead and antimony, both of which are toxic at certain levels. The FDA has an import alert in place for eye area cosmetics that contain these substances, and they are detained at U.S. ports of entry until they meet the FDA’s safety standards.
However, genuine and organic kohl made of pure galena does not pose any risks for lead poisoning when correctly applied. It has a number of medicinal and vision improving properties, and the traditional kohl ithmid is eco-friendly because the casings are refillable.authentic Kohl
