Did Ancient Egyptian Makeup Have Protective Powers?
SATURDAY, Jan. 23 (HealthDay News) — The stunning eye makeup worn thousands of years ago by Queen Nefertiti and other Egyptian royals may not have been used to enhance beauty alone: New research suggests that the ancient cosmetics may have helped prevent or treat eye disease.

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Cleopatra (or, at least, Elizabeth Taylor’s version) may be the patron saint of eyeliner. And now, it seems her look had even more going for it than previously thought. The New York Times reported on a study published this month in Analytical Chemistry: researchers analyzed ancient Egyptian makeup samples preserved at the Louvre. They discovered that the lead-based eyeliner actually boosted the immune system and killed bacteria from airborne particles that could lead to serious eye infections and permanent damage. Despite the findings, scientists caution this is not a justification to add such toxic lead levels to modern-day makeup. While the eyeliner may have inadvertently helped the Egyptians, modern science and technology provide other ways to protect eyes.

RELATED LINKS:
· Allure Best of Beauty: The best eye makeup.
· Insiders’ Guide: How to wear winter makeup.
· Daily Beauty Reporter: Bright Eyes

PHOTO: CONDÉ NAST DIGITAL STUDIO

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