Life — December 2, 1926 — page 35: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This is a Christmas-themed cartoon from *Life* magazine depicting a flirtation scene at what appears to be a formal holiday party or dance. A senior boy (in formal attire) attempts to warn a female college student ("co-ed") that lipstick causes septicemia (blood poisoning). The joke plays on the tension between: 1. **Medical concern** — a somewhat contrived health warning 2. **Flirtation** — his real intent is to get close enough to kiss her 3. **Her response** — "Try and get it!" is a cheeky dare challenging his nerve The satire mocks both pretentious young men who use pseudo-scientific excuses to justify romantic advances, and the carefree attitude of modern young women toward such warnings. It reflects 1920s-era anxieties about youth behavior and cosmetics.