Applying cosmetics to the face/body to improve or alter appearance; cosmetics themselves.
毎朝、私は鏡の前で化粧をします。
Every morning I do my makeup in front of the mirror.
舞台女優は客席からよく見えるように濃い化粧をすることが多い。
Stage actresses often wear heavy makeup so they can be seen from the audience.
彼女は化粧の仕方が上手で、印象を上手に変える。
She's good at applying makeup and can change her impression skillfully.
Decoration or surface dressing; a veneer or cosmetic covering (can be used literally or figuratively).
会社は決算書に一時的な化粧をしていたと批判された。
The company was criticized for temporarily glossing over its financial statements.
古い家具に塗り直して化粧を施し、新品のように見せた。
They refinished the old furniture to dress it up and make it look like new.
見た目の化粧ばかりで、本質は変わっていない。
It's just cosmetic dressing; the essence hasn't changed.