Eyes like an Egyptian

Cleopatra's eye make-up was not just for looks - it also protected her from disease, say French researchers.

Experts believe that Egyptians applied the eyeliner 4000 years ago to ward off infections.

Lead salts in the make-up helped to protect against eye disease, the study claims. At very low levels, salts produce nitric oxide, which boosts the immune system to fight off bacteria, which can cause eye infection.