What mortuary cosmetics is
Mortuary cosmetics (also called restorative cosmetics or funeral cosmetics) is the final stage of preparing the deceased, restoring a natural appearance — as if at peaceful rest. The family sees their loved one cared for and at peace, at the wake and ceremony.
It forms part of preparing the deceased, carried out after washing and embalming. The aim is to preserve the dignity of the person who has died and to give the family comfort at the last farewell.
What mortuary cosmetics includes
Several careful steps are involved, all subtle and aimed at the most natural appearance possible:
- Subtle make-up, giving the complexion a natural tone
- Hair styling and combing
- Shaving, for men, where appropriate
- Care of the hands and nails
- Restorative work on features, when needed
- Placing spectacles or personal items, at the family's request
Who carries out the cosmetics
The work is done by staff experienced in caring for the deceased, in a dedicated preparation room. It is not ordinary make-up; it requires specific techniques and appropriate products.
The family does not attend the procedure. They see their loved one only afterwards, prepared and ready for the wake. Discretion and respect are observed throughout.
When the cosmetics is done
Mortuary cosmetics takes place after washing and embalming, before dressing and placing in the casket. It is one of the last stages of preparation.
The full preparation process normally takes 4–6 hours. After the cosmetics, the deceased is dressed in the clothing chosen by the family and made ready for the wake.
Cosmetics or embalming — what is the difference
Embalming conserves the body; mortuary cosmetics restores the appearance. They are distinct but complementary stages — embalming prepares, cosmetics finishes.
For a good appearance at the wake, especially when it lasts more than one day, both are recommended. See also the page on preparing the deceased.
| Aspect | Embalming | Mortuary cosmetics |
|---|---|---|
| AspectPurpose | EmbalmingConserves the body | Mortuary cosmeticsRestores a natural appearance |
| AspectRole in preparation | EmbalmingPrepares | Mortuary cosmeticsFinishes |
| AspectTiming | EmbalmingBefore the cosmetics | Mortuary cosmeticsAfter washing and embalming, before dressing |
When the wake lasts more than one day, both are recommended.
Cases that require restorative work
In some situations — after a long illness, an accident, or a medical procedure — the features need restorative work to achieve as natural an appearance as possible.
The restoration is carried out carefully and skilfully, to give the family a peaceful image of the person they have lost. We will tell you in advance what is achievable and what to expect.
What is included and what it costs
Mortuary cosmetics is normally included as part of preparing the deceased, alongside washing and embalming. Complex restorative work is quoted separately, where needed.
We coordinate all preparation in one place, with a clear quote. For an overview of costs, see our pricing page.
Who handles everything
The family entrusts us with the preparation and we take care of washing, embalming, and cosmetics — with discretion and respect.
We answer day and night. For a no-obligation conversation, call us or see our package list with prices that include preparation.