What is Arabic Kohl and what are its benefits in makeup?
One of the most important cosmetics in the Middle East and South Asia is kohl, which, although known for centuries, only a few years ago began to become popular in the West. The popularity of Arabic Kohl has been increasing due to several factors, among which its easy application and the benefits it brings to makeup. These 5 Best Arabic Khol are worth buying.
Despite this, many people still do not know what Arabic Kohl is or have various doubts about it. If you are one of them, don’t worry, because this article was made to help you solve all your doubts.
What is Kohl and what is it used for?
Kohl is a cosmetic powder originally composed of a mineral called galena. This mineral belongs to the group of sulfides and is derived from lead. The green version of kohl in ancient times was made from malachite, an emerald green mineral derived from copper.
Currently, kohl is made up of other more harmless minerals, such as amorphous carbon dust, a form of soot of harmless plant origin and of great intensity in its black color. Natural oils and resins are added to this vegetable soot base made from fruit seeds and special woods, which will give it a pasty or more liquid consistency depending on the presentation.
The Moroccan Kohl, in fact, is one of the oldest cosmetics in history and data of its traditional use can be found from the Bronze Age (3500 BC). At first, various civilizations used it as an ideal ointment to protect the eyes due to its bactericidal properties; one of those civilizations was the Egyptian.
Since ancient times, it has been customary to apply it to the eyelids to darken them and thus avoid damage caused by sunlight. In some places, Arabic Kohl was not only used to beautify the face or prevent damage to the eyes but also as a measure of protection against the evil eye and other types of magic.
What are the differences and similarities between Kohl and kajal?
Kohl is the original product, from this other cosmetics are derived for eyeliner, such as kajal. Etymologically, the word kajal comes from the Hispanic Arabic kojol, which in turn comes from the Arabic kohl. That is why one speaks of one and the other without distinction.
So, basically, we would be talking about the same product, but with time and its arrival in other countries, its composition has changed. For this reason, some people now call the most consistent and firmer eyeliners kajal, mainly those of Indian origin.
The similarities between Kohland kajal are so many that in most stores one and the other are sold interchangeably. Only in some specialized stores is a differentiation made according to the firmness of the product.
What are the benefits of using Arabic Kohl in makeup?
Since its inception, kohl has been considered more of a medicinal powder or ointment, mainly because it provided extra protection to the eyes in the desert. In addition, it protected against infections by having bactericidal properties both due to its silver content in lead sulfate and because of the copper content in green kohl.
Currently, Moroccan kohl contains soot and other lead-free minerals, and the properties of these ingredients help maintain a healthy look. Charcoal neutralizes certain bacteria and certain toxins, which is why it is still used in many branches of medicine.
Another advantage of using kohl in makeup is that it lasts a long time and gives a very different and exotic finish. By applying the powder within the waterline of the eyes, it brings out the white and gives more strength to the look. It is natural and yields much more than other products.
The different types of Kohl that exist
In ancient times, kohl was only used as a powder and applied with a stick, either with a little water or oils or on its own. Currently, there are many presentations of the product, for example, in compact powder or pencil. This last presentation is the most comfortable and popular, as the powder usually stains the cheeks if you do not know how to put it well.
5 Best Arabic Kohl (Kajol) to Buy in 2022
1. Bourjois Kohl & Contour Eye Pencil
The Bourjois Kohl & Contour comes in different colors, facilitating their integration into the various types of makeup. Its texture is smooth and creamy, this facilitates its application and prolongs its duration throughout the day. It is suitable for use with contact lenses.
2. Max Factor Kohl Pencil
This presentation of kohl includes the color white, which makes it ideal for widening the eye or marking lines of light. The white Max Factor Kohl Pencil is made of very soft materials, so it does not hurt the waterline or the skin.
3. Clarins Crayon Kohl
This brand is the most similar to the original Arabic kohl, as, in addition to having an easy-to-apply consistency, it has the original blackness. Due to its pencil tip, Clarins Crayon Kohl can be used both as an eyeliner and kohl, as it includes a sponge applicator in one tip.
4. Sisley Phyto-Kohl Star Waterproof Sparkling
The advantage of this kohl pencil is that it is automatic and includes an integrated pencil sharpener in its presentation, making it easier to use. The Sisley Phyto-Kohl Star Waterproof Sparkling is waterproof, so it doesn’t matter if you sweat or cry; does not irritate the eyes. This kohl pencil is enriched with organic vitamin E, rosehip oil and bisabolol.
5. Sisley Phyto Kohl Perfect
One advantage of the Sisley Phyto khol Perfect brand is that it handles various kohl colors in addition to the traditional black. Like, for example, this navy blue color that, in addition to highlighting the eyes, makes the natural color of the iris look more intense.
Its consistency is very smooth and it has been ophthalmologically tested, so it is safe to use for delicate people. This presentation includes a sponge applicator at one end.
Final Words
We hope you liked our article and are encouraged to try this incredible makeup. We are sure that you will get a penetrating look for longer.
See Also: Advantages of Lemon Water
