While such prolonged use of lead may have had some deleterious effect, the Egyptians believed it to be beneficial and they wore it daily. Called mesdemet, eyeliner was often stored in highly decorative containers. Some had multiple compartments, inscribed for every day, for each season, and special perhaps a drop of a different precious oil made each unique. Mesdemet was liberally applied all around the eye, sometimes extending outwards at the corners. A delicately elongated inner corner extension was in vogue during the Old Kingdom, as was a green eye-shadow made from ground malachite and applied liberally both under the eye and on the eyelid.
Some mummies bear evidence of henna-stained fingernails, an early form of nail polish.
Egyptian perfume was prized throughout the ancient world. In addition to enhancing body scent, perfumed oil and unguents were also used to lubricate the body for protection against the sun and dry climate. Made from animal fats, unguents were scented with flowers and spices. Lilies, the most popular ingredient, were combined with honey, myrrh, cardamom, cinnamon, and crocus to produce a sweet and pungent fragrance. Virtually every painted tomb in ancient Egypt depicted a banquet scene, attesting to the importance of such gatherings where social status was proclaimed by one s manner of dress, weave of linen, and fineness of jewellery.