More Cool Inventions

Latest in a series of articles on Muslim inventions:

In 1000 CE, Arab cosmetologist Abul Qasim Zahrawi invented solid lipsticks, which were perfumed stocks rolled and pressed in molds. These were precursors of the modern version.

Abul Qasim also described the first hand creams and lotions, as well as the first suntan lotions with their ingredients and benefits.

In the 9th century, the Persian Ziryab invented a type of toothpaste. Unlike earlier Egyptian and Roman toothpastes, Ziryab's was reported both functional and pleasant to taste.

The paraffin lamp was invented by al-Razi in the 9th century. Europe only followed in 1853.

Muslim Egyptian soldiers at the Battle of Ain Jalut in 1260 were first to wear fireproof clothing. This was a silk tunic (still worn by Formula 1 drivers under fire suits), aketon and a mainly woolen over tunic similar to those worn by modern soldiers for protection against biological, chemical and nuclear weapons.

In the 9th century, the Banu Musa brothers invented, among other things, the hurricane lamp, gas mask and valves.

Al-Jazari (1206) invented a hand washing automaton first to use the flush mechanism now in modern toilets.

Ibn Sina (1000’s) invented the thermometer.

The first city to have its streets paved with tar was Baghdad in the 8th century CE.