Study for the Wisconsin Esthetics State Board Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Prepare for your licensing exam more effectively!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.


What was Kohl historically used for in ancient cultures?

  1. Skin exfoliation

  2. Eye makeup and darkening brows/lashes

  3. Moisturizing skin

  4. Sun protection

The correct answer is: Eye makeup and darkening brows/lashes

Kohl historically served as a prominent form of eye makeup in ancient cultures, particularly in regions like Egypt, the Middle East, and parts of Africa. This substance, traditionally made from natural ingredients such as galena (lead sulfide), was primarily used to darken the eyebrows and eyelashes, enhancing the eyes' appearance. Beyond aesthetic appeal, kohl also had symbolic significance, often associated with protection against the evil eye and believed to have spiritual qualities. Additionally, it provided some degree of protection from sun glare and dust, but its primary use was focused on cosmetic enhancement. This historical context highlights how ancient civilizations valued kohl not only as a makeup staple but also for its cultural and protective attributes.