November 2003
The Director - Features
Embalming Cosmetology Preliminaries
The ideals and principles of embalming cosmetology and restorative art form the most critical aspects of modern funeral service and reach far beyond the limits of mechanical and routine work
When preparing the body for viewing, the main objective is to create a natural, life-like appearance. This memory image is achieved through the pre-embalming and embalming treatments – considered the first steps in establishing the cosmetic surface foundation. If this foundation is less than perfect, nothing built upon it, regardless of effort and skill, will be totally satisfactory. In
Embalming Cosmetology Preliminaries, writer C. Richard Sanders discusses the value of viewing, photographs for reference in embalming, and the importance of pre-embalming technique.
Sanders graduated from the California College of Mortuary Science, Los Angeles, California, in 1949. During more than 50 years in funeral service, Sanders specialized in cosmetics and restorative arts, served as vice president of a high-volume funeral home in California, and worked as a Dodge Company sales representative. He also served as a contributing editor to the Dodge Magazine, worked as a staff member of the Dodge Institute, presented lectures and seminars throughout the U.S. and internationally, and contributed to the third edition of Embalming Cosmetology and the textbook, Embalming: History, Theory & Practice. Sanders retired in 1996 to Largo, Florida, with his wife, Jacquelyn.
