Modern embalming techniques have evolved over many decades, even centuries through research, trial and error, and invention.

The first thing an embalmer should do is verify the identity of the deceased (normally via wrist or leg tags). At this point embalmers commonly perform basic tests for signs of death, noting things such as clouded-over corneas, lividity, and rigor mortis.

Any clothing on the corpse is removed and set aside; jewelry, also, is inventoried. A modesty cloth is sometimes placed over the genitals. Following this the corpse is washed in disinfecting and germicidal solutions and during this process the embalmer bends, flexes and massages the arms and legs to relieve rigor mortis.

The eyes are closed and kept closed with an eye cap that keeps them shut and in the proper expression. The mouth may be closed via suturing with a needle and ligature, using an adhesive, wire or a needle injector. The embalmer tries to make the expression look as natural as possible and usually a photograph of the deceased while still living is used to help.

The actual embalming process usually involves four parts:

1. Arterial embalming, which involves the injection of embalming chemicals into the blood vessels, usually via the right common carotid artery.

2. Cavity embalming, the suction of the internal fluids of the corpse and the injection of embalming chemicals into body cavities, using an aspirator and trocar.

3. Hypodermic embalming, the injection of embalming chemicals under the skin as needed.

4. Surface embalming, which supplements the other methods,especially for visible, injured body parts.

Most good embalmings are completed in two or three hours, although an easy case may take less time and complicated cases can take days.

After the body is rewashed and dried, a moisturizing cream is applied to the face.  After being dressed for visitation/funeral services, cosmetics are applied to make the body appear more lifelike and to create a "memory picture" for the deceased's friends and relatives.

 If possible, the funeral director uses a light, translucent cosmetic; sometimes, heavier, opaque cosmetics are used to hide bruises, cuts, or discolored areas. Makeup is applied to the lips to mimic their natural color. Sometimes a very pale or light pink lipstick is applied on males, while brighter colored lipstick is applied to females.

Hair gels or baby oil are applied to style the hair, especially for deceased who are male. Mortuary cosmetizing  is designed to add depth and dimension to a person's features that the lack of blood circulation has removed.