Kajal, also known as kohl or surma, has been a beauty staple for centuries. Originating in ancient civilizations, its existence in some form can be traced back to at least 3100 BCE. This eye-enhancing product has transcended cultures, fashion trends, and generations. However, as makeup preferences evolve, Gen Z seems to be moving away from this once-iconic beauty essential.
A Historical Beauty Staple
Kajal's origins trace back to ancient Egypt, where both men and women used it for aesthetic and medicinal purposes. Made by grinding a stone called 'Galena' in Egypt, it was believed to protect against the evil eye and shield the eyes from the harsh sun.
Across South Asia and the Middle East, kajal was traditionally made using soot mixed with natural oils. Some forms of kajal or kohl contained herbs that allegedly provided a cooling effect and were believed to act as a protective barrier against dust and infections.
In India, kajal held cultural significance, often applied to babies’ eyes to ward off negative energy. Over time, it became a symbol of femininity, used by women to define their eyes and enhance their features.
Kajal in Western Beauty Trends
While kajal has been a part of Eastern beauty traditions for millennia, it eventually found its way into Western fashion. The smoky eye trend in the early 2000s made kajal a must-have in makeup kits across the globe. Luxury beauty brands began incorporating kajal-style soft and smudge-able eyeliners into their product lines, marketed for their deep pigmentation and effortless appeal.
Hollywood icons, runway models, and beauty influencers adopted the look, making it a symbol of bold and edgy fashion. From the gothic-inspired dark eyes of the 90s to the ultra-smoky aesthetic of the 2010s, kajal had its moment of global dominance. However, fears about the lead content in traditional kohl has resulted in changes in its formulation.
Why Is Gen Z Ditching Kajal?
Despite its rich history and cultural relevance, Gen Z is slowly moving away from kajal in favour of minimalistic and innovative beauty trends. There are several reasons for this.
The Clean Girl Aesthetic
Gen Z’s affinity for fresh, dewy, and minimal makeup looks has caused a shift from the heavily-lined eyes we saw back in the day. They prefer subtle enhancements using clear mascaras, neutral eye shadows, and barely-there eyeliners.
Practicality Over Tradition
Kajal, while beautiful, often smudges, leading to “raccoon eyes,” especially in humid climates. Gen Z clearly values long-wearing, smudge-proof products that require less maintenance throughout the day.
Rise of Coloured Eyeliners
Instead of traditional black kajal, Gen Z is experimenting with vibrant eyeliner shades—think neon blues, pastels, and graphic liner designs that offer a modern twist to eye makeup.
Changing Beauty Standards
The heavy eye makeup that defined previous generations is giving way to softer, more natural looks. Rather than dramatic, dark kohl-rimmed eyes, many Gen Z beauty enthusiasts favour an understated approach, enhancing their natural features rather than dramatically altering them.
The Future of Kajal in Beauty Trends
While Gen Z may be moving away from kajal in its traditional form, the product is far from obsolete. Beauty brands are reimagining kajal with waterproof, gel-based, and smudge-free formulations that suit modern preferences. Moreover, with nostalgia-driven trends making a comeback, kajal may find itself back in the spotlight in new and exciting ways.
For now, however, the era of heavily-lined eyes seems to be taking a backseat as a new wave of beauty trends takes over. Whether kajal will make a full-fledged return or remain a relic of past beauty routines, is something only time will tell.
