What natural substance did ancient Egyptians use to dye hair and tattoo skin?

The ancient Egyptians used henna as a natural substance to dye hair and tattoo skin. Henna is derived from the leaves of the Lawsonia inermis plant and has been used for thousands of years for its dyeing properties, particularly in the Middle Eastern and North African regions. The dye created from henna not only imparts a rich reddish-brown color to the hair but is also safe for use on the skin, making it a popular choice for body art and temporary tattoos.

Henna's popularity among the ancient Egyptians was also due to its cultural significance, often associated with celebrations, rituals, and beautification practices. The use of henna reflects a deep connection to natural materials, emphasizing both aesthetics and symbolism in their beauty rituals.