The term is more correctly "Powder the nose". It is not commonly said. When people do not know each other well, they often do not like to discuss bodily functions relating to toilet functions, so there are many euphemisms. I can't speak for the ladies, but when it is all men together (for example having a beer or two together) there can be many things they might say, from innocuous (I am going to see a man about a dog), to funny (I am going to point Percy at the porcelaine), to ribald (I am going to shake hands with the wifes best friend). All mean he is going to the toilet. Of course there are many others which are best not printed here ;)

Hahaha yes it is "powder the nose" for example a girl would say "I'm going to the ladies room to powder my nose". And no I never use it, but I never wear makeup so this is not something that I could pull off when going out anyway. Also Chi you should know that usually girls use this when they want to be accompanied by another girl at the table to the restroom. This is a code for I want to talk with you or gossip in the bathroom (usually about the men at the table) and usually has little to nothing to do with actually wanting to use the restroom (although touching up makeup might be involved). This is an old saying that, at least in America, is out of date. Younger generations would straight out ask a girl at the table if they wanted to accompany them to the restroom. Also you should know that saying "toilet" in America would be considered to be an unfavorable word to use, "restroom" or "ladies room" would be considered more couth.

both above answers are partially correct... i believe the correct answer you are seeking is "powder your nose" ... referring to re-applying make-up after a sumptuous dinner or a night out on the town. as far as, discussing bodily functions that is strictly a cultural norm depending on which country u are from. haha LOL "shake the wife's best friend"... never heard of that but in the States we also have many colourful phrases in referencing to that part of daily habit.

I never heard the expression "Puff the nose" I always use the expression excuse me I have to use the Men's Room. Puff the nose I think relates to an old epression that means "Powder Room" for the women where they would put fresh make-up on there face it is the same as 'Womens Room" or bathroom.