Applying kohl A Nepali man has his eyes lined with kohl. (more) kohl cosmetic Also known as: kajal, sormeh, surma Written by Shatarupa Chaudhuri Shatarupa Chaudhuri is a senior editor at Encyclopaedia Britannica, bringing over 15 years of editorial experience in news media and publishing. Shatarupa Chaudhuri Fact-checked by Britannica Editors Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree.... Britannica Editors Last updated Mar. 11, 2026 •History kohl, fine black powder traditionally used as eye makeup in various cultures since ancient times. It has been associated with protective and healing properties as well as cultural and religious significance. The word kohl derives from the Arabic word for this cosmetic, kuḥl. Ubiquitous in many parts of Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, kohl is known by other names, including surma in Urdu and kajal in Hindi. It is regarded as the precursor to...

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