Vintage Face Patters

In 1923, Dorothy Grey introduced The Face Patter, to stimulate circulation and ... The Face Patter to stimulate circulation, which gave cheeks a natural, rosy glow. It was also used for “reducing a double chin at the same time making the muscles firm”,” to firm loose muscles and a crepy throat”, and “for erasing lines and wrinkles.”


“Pat your way to perfection with the little Dorothy Gray Patter. One, two, three! One, two, three! The brisk, rhythmic patting stimulates a rapid, healthy circulation, making the muscles firm, keeping the skin clear and bright. And its all so quick, so easy! The Dorothy Gray Patter does its work deftly and well. It costs only $2.50.” “Pat a thin face gently,” the instructions read, “a plump face firmly.”


The face patter was a simple round slice of rubber stuck on the end of a handle that measured a foot long. A "specially contrived instrument for stimulating the facial muscles without irritating the skin".

The directions called for cleaning the skin with the Dorothy Gray Cleansing Cream, then patting on the Circulation Cream, then applying the non-fattening, emollient Special Mixture Tissue Cream for circulation, then applying the mild, refreshing Orange Flower Skin Tonic astringent and rhythmically patting some more, finally patting on the Astringent Lotion, the effective contour astringent..



In 1932, Margaret Dibble applied for a patent on her improved face patter made up of sponge rubber. Her design added a pocket/ cut out portion so that a cake of soap could be slipped in or astringent could be poured inside. The function of the dampened patter using soap was to massage and stimulate the pores for efficient and deeper cleansing of the face, in which a foaming lather would be produced by moving the patter in a circular motion over the face.


For patting purposes, a small amount of astringent could be poured into the pocket, allowing the liquid to fully penetrate the one side of the patter made up of spongy material. The other side would be for powder or massaging of the face. The handle of the patter was made up rubber, which allowed flexibility and reduced fatigue from usage. Her patent was granted in 1934.

Elizabeth Arden also came out with a face patter.

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Elizabeth Arden's Venetian Beauty Requisites

In 1912, Elizabeth Arden embarked on a transformative journey to France, where she immersed herself in the sophisticated beauty culture of Paris. This trip was pivotal, as it allowed her to learn the latest techniques in beauty and facial massage from renowned Parisian salons. Arden was captivated by the artistry of French beauty, and she understood that these techniques, combined with her vision, could revolutionize the approach to makeup in North America.

Upon her return, Arden brought with her a carefully curated collection of rouges and tinted powders, products that she had personally developed. This was a bold move during a time when makeup was largely reserved for performers and the stage, and society held strict views about appropriate beauty practices. By introducing modern eye makeup to the North American market, Arden challenged conventional norms and made cosmetics accessible to a broader audience, allowing women to enhance their natural beauty without the stigma associated with makeup.

Elizabeth Arden didn’t stop at product innovation; she also introduced the revolutionary concept of the “makeover.” Her salons became havens where women could not only receive beauty treatments but also experience a complete transformation. This holistic approach to beauty emphasized the importance of personalized service and tailored techniques, encouraging women to explore their individual styles. Arden’s makeovers became more than just physical transformations; they empowered women to embrace their beauty and feel confident in their own skin.

Through her pioneering efforts, Elizabeth Arden played a crucial role in redefining beauty standards in the early 20th century. Her influence extended beyond products; she reshaped societal perceptions of makeup, inviting women from all walks of life to indulge in the art of beauty and self-expression.