Body art is an important expressant of personality, religious beliefs and social habits in any society. Ancient Egypt was no exception to the rule. The present article aimed at surveying the ways our ancient ancestors decorated their bodies and the intention behind such practices. It was concluded that body art started in the predynastic period and had different purposes like beautifying, protection, connection to certain gods and marking for identification or punishment.
We have evidence that body art was practised in ancient Egypt since the predynastic period in the form of tattoos which were applied mostly to women and in some rare examples to men as well. Cosmetics were wide spread in all classes of society and along all historical stages. Henna was used for coloring hair , balms, feet and nails of mummies. Piercing and earlobe stretching of ears was practiced. Branding was a cruel measure taken mostly against criminals and war prisoners.