Etiquette for Reapplying Lipstick

 

If one’s lipstick is on the cup, it isn’t on the lips any longer. Reapplying a bit of lipstick at the table is fine with Etiquipedia, as long as one does it without show and it is a one step process only. Lip liner, a base coat or top coat are not allowable without excusing oneself to go to the powder room or elsewhere to apply. We are torn over the 1983 advice for powdering one’s nose. We feel that anything that requires the opening of a compact and mirror at the table, is best left for another setting.

To Makeup or Not

Is it proper to touch up your shiny nose and your lipstick at the table when you're dining out?

Most etiquette experts say a discreet dab of powder and lipstick is fine and might even be a trace alluring, but a major repair job belongs in the ladies' room.

A subtle touch up of powder to take away face shine and freshening of lipstick does not mean adding lipliner, lip gloss and eye makeup, though. Remember, makeup should remain a mystery to the observer. – Desert Sun, 1983

🍽️Etiquette Enthusiast, Maura J. Graber, is the Site Editor for the Etiquipedia© Etiquette Encyclopedia

Skin Care Etiquette for Teens

Elizabeth Post had her own line of cosmetics and beauty products for fans of her etiquette columns. This mid-century, miniature powder and accompanying puff, were the perfect size to toss in a handbag.

Care of Your Face

• Never go to bed without washing it, no matter how late it is. If your skin is oily, use soap and water. If it is dry, use soap sparingly and be sure to wipe the skin dry after every washing.
• Your powder puff and lipstick should never be loaned, and do not borrow other people’s. 
• Face powder is fine to hide a shiny nose, but don't make a mask of it on your face. 
• Lipstick color should match nail polish, if you use colored polish. Select a lipstick that will suit your natural coloring, your hair, skin and also the color of the dress you are wearing. Be careful not to overdo the lipstick. Keep the natural shape of your lips.
• Rouge should be saved for parties and evening dress-up. Use it sparingly, or it will look unnatural.
• Pimples should never be squeezed. Keep your hands off them. Picking can make an ugly scar and start an infection. See your doctor for constant skin trouble, as there are many new ways to treat it. 
• Get plenty of sleep and check your diet. The health of your skin depends on sleep, diet, exercise and cleanliness. Keep away from rich, spicy or fried food. A food allergy can cause a rash. 

– From Emily R. Dow’s 1957, “Brooms, Buttons and Beaux”

💄Etiquette Enthusiast, Maura J. Graber, is the Site Editor for the Etiquipedia© Etiquette Encyclopedia