My fellow beauty blogger, Lianne of The Makeup Girl, tagged me! So here goes with a list of my beauty secrets:
My Foundation: I've grown so use to my freckles over the years that I don't like seeing them covered up, so I prefer a natural look ( I was so excited when I realized that Tamia has freckles and also keeps her look natural!). Right now I'm using MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural in Medium (alone) or MAC Select Tint SPF 15. If I need more coverage, I use MAC Mineralize Satinfinish SPF 15.
My Mascara: Diorshow- hands down! The runner-up would be L'Oreal Voluminous.
My Blush: Too many to name! But, I just fell in love with MAC's Cream Colour Base in Improper Cooper. I get soooooooo many compliments when I wear it!
My Eye Shadow: Again- way too many to name! Right now I'm loving NARS, Make Up Forever, Givenchy, Chanel, MAC and Dior.
My Day Cream: I use these three for the day: REN's Mayblossom and Konjac Balancing Moisturizer, REN's Lipovector Peptide Anti-Wrinkle Eye Cream and Dermalogica's Super Sensitive Faceblock SPF 30.
My Lipstick: Again, too many to name- but this is what's in the makeup bag I carry everyday (I have a huge purse - LOL!). MAC Slimshine Lipstick in Bare & Funshine, MAC Fafi Lipstick in Not So Innocent, NARS Lipstick in Promiscuous, Chanel Glossimer in Bronze Crystal, MAC Lipstick Lacquer in Poco Pink, MAC Lustreglass in Instant Gold (just to name a few).
My Beauty Product Brand: Not a fair question! LOL! There's something I like from just about every brand and I'm sure there are fabulous brands I haven't tried yet!
My Essential Beauty Product: It's not a product, it's a beauty treament! FACIALS! My skin really loves me for it! :)
My Favorite Makeup Product: My eyebrow pencil (thank you Sam Fine for introducing me to Maybelline's Twin Brow & Eye Pencils) I can't leave home without my eyebrows! LOL!
My Perfume: Right now I'm wearing either Gucci's Rush, Marc Jacobs' Blush or Kate Spade.
My Nails: Rescue Beauty Lounge, OPI, Chanel and MAC
My Feet: Lucky for me I still have a lot of my supplies left over from cosmetology school, so right now I'm using: Creative Nails' Foaming Sea Soak, Sea Rocks Soak, Sea Salt Glow and Marine Masque. I'm also using Rescue Beauty Lounge's Citrus Vert Exfoliationg Body Wash and Aveda's Foot Relief.
My Hands: Kiehl's Ultimate Strength Hand Salve.
Three Products To Bring On A Deserted Island: Sunscreen, Jojoba oil (I can use it on my hair, skin and nails!) and toothpaste/toothbrush.
Woman I Adore For Their Beauty: My mother and grandmother, who both are phenomenal women!
Woman With The Best Sense Of Style: Diana Ross of the "60's/70's".
My Ultimate Dream (but I do not believe in selling my soul to the devil for it): Marriage, children, successful business endeavors, giving back to the community and traveling to see the Seven Wonders of the World!
How Do I Define Womanhood: Love, Respect, Talent, Devotion, Brilliance, Strength and so much more!
My Favorite Fashion Publication: Vogue (US, British, French & Spanish), Elle (US, French & British) and Harper's Bazaar.
The rules are that I have to tag 5 other bloggers (but I'm tagging 6!)- so:
Beauty in Real Life, The Makeup Daily, Yummy 411, Spoiled Pretty, Product Junkie Diva and Virtuous Blue are it!
P.S. Aren't you all loving the photo of Lola Falana above? She was so AMAZING in the 60's!!
Mischo Beauty's Been Tagged: My Beauty Secrets
Mischo Beauty Tip: Mally Roncal The Germinator
WWD Beauty Biz reports that Mally Roncal's obsession with staying bacteria-free, after having twins, directly influenced her launch of additional makeup brushes. In the current issue, Mally shared five tips for keeping your makeup bacteria-free:
1. Wash your hands with antibacterial wash. For my clients I use an antibac that smells like lavendar called Jao Hand Refresher. I put it on my hands and rub them together, then let it dry and put it over their faces. Not only do you kill germs, but you can enjoy a moment of peace.
2. There's nothing worse then looking in someone's makeup bag and seeing dirty, funky, crusty brushes. Either use a brush cleanser or wash your brushes in a gentle shampoo and then condition them.
3. Use Q-Tips whenever possible. In a perfect world, if we were all kajillionaires, we could use our Kevyn Aucoin brush once and throw it away, but we can't. Q-Tips get the makeup on and off and you can just ditch them.
4. Don't blow on your brushes! A lot of women get makeup on their brush and then blow on it. I just see the spit from their mouth on it. To get rid of excess powder, tap on the brush instead.
5. Anything you use in your eye area needs to be cleaned with each use. Sharpen your eye pencil right before or after you use it to take off what you just used on your eye."
I love and agree with Mally's tips! How are you keeping your makeup germ free? I want to know!
Mischo Beauty Product Review: L'Oreal Voluminous Naturale
I must admit that I love a well made commercial and after seeing Eva Longoria in L'Oreal's Voluminous Naturale mascara commercial and hearing how much my reader Andrea loves this new mascara, I decided to pick it up and try it. I've been wearing it now for about two weeks and I will say that I like it. It's great for the "look" I wear to work. It gives me "natural" volume, length and definition which results in nicely defined and separated lashes which is all I need during the day. And, I love that it does not clump! As soon as I apply it, it immediately sets and I have no clumping, smearing or flaking. I find that when I want a little more, for let's say a happy hour after work, I layer it with the Voluminous Original mascara and my lashes are perfect!
Is anyone else using it? Any thoughts?
(photo courtesy of lorealparisusa.com)
Mischo Beauty School: Hair Conditioners 101
Which conditioner should you buy? Well it depends on the condition and texture of your hair. Your stylist will know when to use an instant conditioner for detangling only, or when to use a moisturizing or protein conditioning treatment. Let's understand the differences:
1. Instant conditioners/rinses, left on for only a few minutes, smooth the hair's cuticle which detangles the hair.
2. Moisturizing conditioners, which are allowed to work for 10-20 minutes, restore moisture to the hair, balance the hair's pH, and smooth/coat the hair shaft resulting in control and shine.
3. Protein conditioners are used to strengthen the hair and repair split ends. They are formulated to replace the protein lost in the hair. They should be used according to the manufacturer's directions. Improper use may result in breakage.
Love your hair.
Any questions, comments, thoughts? Read More......
Beautiful hair needs an expert.
(photos courtesy of hamadibeauty.com & miumiu.com)
Mischo Beauty Closet
Butter London's Fashionista Favorites Spring/Summer 2008 (DBP, Toluene and Formaldehyde Free) + Stella McCartney's Multibeaded Platform Sandal (check out Stella's organic skincare line) = ECO BEAUTY
Check out Butter London's "Turn In Your Toxins" campaign!
Any thoughts?
(photos courtesy of butterlondon.com & stellamccartney.com)
Because You're Worth It!
The last time I was there it was AMAZING... has anyone been?
(photos courtesy starwoodhotels.com & indianspringscalistoga.com) Read More......
Mischo Beauty News
According to Women's Wear Daily, Gucci Westman, celebrity makeup artist and former international artistic director for Lancome, has joined Revlon as their global artistic director. I'm sure you all know that Halle Berry has been a Revlon spokesmodel for years now, and she's now joined by Jessica Alba and Elle Macpherson. In all honesty, I haven't bought Revlon since college- I use to love their nail polish and lipsticks. Hopefully Gucci will be able to do for Revlon, what Pat McGrath has done for MAX Factor and catch up to L'Oreal!
Is anyone using Revlon? If so, what are your picks?
(Source: WWD.com & photo courtesy of revlon.com)
Mischo Beauty Reader Favorite: Giovanni Smooth As Silk Conditioner
My reader and fellow beauty blogger, "Dominican Enigma over at Beauty Logic, wrote in the tell me about a conditioner she loves. It's "Smooth As Silk" conditioner by Giovanni. She states: "I like it because it's organic; there are no harsh ingredients in it, and my hair is left incredibly shiny and so lustrous- not weighed down at all! I constantly get compliments on my hair when I condition with this!" I love it! Thank you "Dominican Enigma"!
Are you using a "natural" or "organic" conditioner? If so, please tell us all about it!
Mischo Beauty Product Review: Tom's of Maine Natural Long-Lasting Deodorant Stick
I've been using Tom's of Maine toothpaste for years now, and while it took a while to get used to (it doesn't contain artificial sweeteners), now I find that I won't use anything else! In an effort to make informed changes with my personal care products (isn't there a saying "when you know better, you should try to do better"- I'm guilty, but I'm trying!), I recently decided to search for a "natural" deodorant. I'd tried Tom's of Maine Natural Long-Lasting Deodorant Stick a few years ago with no luck and after that I went back to my regular brand. Well after visiting their website and learning that they'd "improved" the formula by adding an ingredient called "Hops" (which inhibits the growth of odor-causing bacteria) I decided to give it another try. I picked up the "Apricot" fragrance (love it!) and prepared myself to have it with me at all times so that I'd be able to freshen up throughout the day. Surprisingly, since I've started using it, I haven't had the need to reapply it! I know body chemistry varies, but I'd recommend it if you're searching for a natural deodorant.
Mischo Beauty Pick: NARS Orgasm Nail Polish
You might remember my post, after my return from Fashion Week, about the upcoming launch of the NARS Orgasm Nail Polish. Well it's finally here! I was so late with finally getting around to trying the cult-fave Orgasm Lip Gloss (which I love wearing with the Promiscuous Lipstick), that I was determined to stay on the ball with the launch of the nail polish. Like the lip gloss, the nail polish is also a peach-pink shimmer shade. While I have not tried it yet, I have very high hopes for it! It's Toluene, Formaldehyde and DBP Free and only available at Sephora as part of a gift set, which includes the Orgasm Lip Gloss. If you've tried it, please let us know what you think!
Mischo Beauty School: "Natural" and "Organic" Beauty Certifications 101
We all know that tomorrow is Earth Day and I felt it only appropriate to provide definitions for those who aren't clear on the terms "Natural" and "Organic" certifications as they relate to beauty products, since I'd previously discussed the "Biodynamic" certification. My hope is that you'll be even more empowered to make informed choices depending on your beauty needs.
Natural Certification:
The natural beauty certification is not regulated by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) or the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (Department of Health & Human Services). It often includes products that are formulated with plant-based and natural ingredients with few to no dyes, synthetic fragrances, petrochemicals, phthalates, sodium lauryl sulfate and parabens.
Organic Certification:
The organic beauty certification in the U.S. is regulated by the USDA's National Organic Program (NOP) which regulates organic foods and ingredients used for personal care products. It includes products who's ingredients are grown free of pesticides, herbicides, and insecticides.
There are four levels of USDA Organic certification, based on percentages of organic ingredients:
1. "100% Certified Organic": Product must contain 100% organic ingredients certified by the USDA and can bear the USDA Organic Seal.
2. "Certified Organic": 95% or higher Certified Organic Ingredients (with strict restriction on the remaining 5%). Product certified by the USDA and can bear the USDA Organic Seal.
3. "Made with Organic Ingredients": 70-94% Certified Organic Ingredients (with strict restrictions on the remaining 30%). Product certified by the USDA but CANNOT bear the USDA Seal.
4. Less than 70% Organic Ingredients: Organic Ingredients can be denoted with an asterisk. Only ingredients are certified by the USDA (NOT the finished product), and the product CANNOT bear the USDA Seal. Product CANNOT call itself organic and the word "organic" may appear on the side or back of the package only.
Love your body.
I'd love to hear your comments and what changes you plan to make to help save the earth!
* For more information on the various activities to set standards and certifications rules for what constitutes "natural" or "organic" personal care products, please visit "The Style Page"!*
(Sources fda.gov, usda.gov & sephora.com)
Mischo Beauty Has Been Tagged!
I've been tagged by "Beauty In Real Life" and "The Style Page"! Here are the rules:
1. Link the person who tagged you.
2. Mention the rules in your blog.
3. Tell about 6 unspectacular quirks of yours.
4. Tag 6 random bloggers by linking them at the end of your post.
5. Leave a comment on each of the tagged bloggers' blogs letting them know they've been tagged.
6. Once your post is up, notify the person who tagged you.
Here are my boring quirks (LOL!):
1. I, like The Style Page, love foreign fashion magazines! I buy French Vogue every month and can't speak or read French (though I'm teaching myself with Coffee Break French!)...
2. Because I'm always up late working, I have a fear of oversleeping. I set 2 alarm clocks every morning for 5:30am and never get up until 7:00am...
3. I still watch "Sex and the City" like the reruns are new episodes on the CW Network and I set my DVR to tape the reruns on TBS...
4. I take the same congested route to work everyday, telling myself I'm going to take a better route tomorrow...
5. I love the "Daily News" e-blasts I receive from British Vogue, but I never have time to read them- hence I have about 100 of them sitting in my email in-box...
6. I have a ton of canvas bags that can be used for shopping. Each and every time I go to the grocery store I forget them at home. This has got to stop!
I'm tagging All About The Pretty, Brown Girl Gumbo, Beauty 365, Shop With A Vengeance, The Makeup Daily, and BeautyLogic.
(photo courtesy of vogue.fr)
Mischo Beauty Alert: Misikko Contest
Submit a product review by April 27th and WIN $200 in prizes! Click here for details.
(logo courtesy of misikko.com)
Mischo Beauty Closet
Jessica Nail's "Cleopatra's Rule" nail polish + Jil Sander's Patent Leather Sandal = SO PRETTY IN PINK
What's your favorite shade of pink nail polish?
(photos courtesy of jessicacosmetics.com & jilsander.com)
Beautiful hair needs an expert.
More Beyonce for you, because I just love her hair! I've been using the UNIL Infrashine Ceramic flat iron and I must tell you that I love the results. You all know that I'm a licensed hairstylist and I've used my fair share of flat irons over the years. During my apprenticeship with Vidal Sassoon, I was not only taught the proper way to use a flat iron, but I was also taught what features make some flat irons better than others. And believe me when I tell you that I know what works after having had to blow dry and flat iron hair model after hair model, and client after client!
I love this flat iron because the ceramic plates, which generate infrared-ray heat and negative ions, help lock moisture and shine into the hair's cuticle. The result is smooth and shiny hair. I'm also loving the fact that you're able to control the temperature. We all know that everyone shouldn't flat iron their hair on the same temperature setting without causing damage. This flat iron allows you to control the temperature based on your hair's texture and needs, which is important! It's lightweight and very easy to handle, so not only are you able to straighten, but it's easy to use for curls too- oh and no worries about wrist issues, which is a huge concern of mine with regards to heat styling tools! It's sleek design makes it easy for packing. I recommend it for the jet-setting Beyonce and I recommend it for you!
Any questions?
(photos courtesy of beyonceworld.net & misikko.com)
Because You're Worth It!
24 Karat Gold Facial Treatment and Glowing Manicure & Pedicure at Willow Stream Spa. Fairmont Hotel (Newport Beach, CA).
Mischo Beauty Reader Favorite: Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer
My reader Tanna e-mailed me about a tinted moisturizer she's in love with and asked that I feature it in today's post! It's Laura Mercier's Tinted Moisturizer. Her day-to-day makeup routine is minimal and this is perfect because it gives her just enough coverage, while also providing the moisture and sun protection she needs. She says it's long-wearing and she never needs to reapply it throughout the course of the day. Because she has normal to combination skin, the original formula works fine for her, but she stated that there is an "oil free" formula as well. The "glow" it gives her means there's no need for a bronzer, but just a hint of blush on the apples of her cheeks. She highly recommends it, especially as we transition into spring and summer.
I love it! Thank you Tanna!
Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer Nude
I'd love to know your favorites! Email me at: mischobeauty@gmail.com and tell me all about them!
Have you tried the Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer? If not, what do you use?
(photo courtesy of sephora.com)
Mischo Beauty Pick: Rescue Beauty Lounge Citrus Vert Exfoliating Body Wash
I've been in intense competition this month on nikeplus.com with a few friends. We all joined the "2 miles a day for April" challenge and the heat has been on! Two of my friends have actually hit the "60 mile" mark and it's only the 17th of April! At any rate, I love healthy competition and I'm determined to keep up. But working 10 hour days and then going to the gym has been quite an adjustment for my body. The mornings have been challenging as my body adjusts to the running workouts and luckily for me my morning "picks-me-ups" are saving me! Right now I'm loving Dr. Bronner's Eucalyptus Liquid Soap and Rescue Beauty Lounge's Citrus Vert Exfoliating Body Wash. The Citrus Vert Exfoliating Body Wash is an exfoliant (containing finely milled apricot seeds) and a body wash, which cleanses and removes dead skin cells all at once. And you all know how much I love exfoliants! My skin feels so soft and silky after I use it. And the citrus scent softly stimulates my senses to give me the boost I need to get the day started.
Rescue Beauty Lounge Body Wash, Citrus Vert
Has anyone tried either products? What's your morning "pick-me-up"?
(photo courtesy of rescuebeauty.com)
Mischo Beauty Product Review: Illusions Cosmetics
Celebrity makeup artists and twin sisters Janice and Denise Tunnell launched Illusions Cosmetics to address the needs of women of color. The collection includes foundations, powders, blush, eye shadows, eye and lip liners, lipsticks, makeup brushes and men's grooming products. They are best known for their lip glosses and recently launched a new collection of lip glosses named after film classics: "Carmen" (Dorothy Dandridge), "Dream Girls" (Beyonce), "Mahogany" (Diana Ross), "Sparkle" (Irene Cara) and "Brown Sugar" (Sanaa Lathan). Janice so graciously sent me the "Honey" Lustre Lip Gloss, "Torch" Lustre Lipstix and the "Sublime" Eye Dust. I was pleasantly surprised to find that after trying them all on, all matched the color descriptions. I was even more surprised to discover that the "Honey" Lustre Lip Gloss was a perfect match to my MAC "Instant Gold" Lustreglass, lots of shine with a sexy, pearlized sparkle! The "Torch" Lustre Lipstix has the exact same soft, creamy texture of my MAC Slimshines, including the high shine. I'm pleased with the products and even more pleased with the price points! For more information, please visit: www.illusionsbeauty.com
Has anyone tried this brand? Any thoughts?
(logo courtesy of illusionsbeauty.com)
Mischo Beauty Side Note: Dove Fresh Takes
I must admit that I've never been one to watch soap operas, but my guilty pleasure these days is definitely "The Hills" (*blush*). Who wouldn't want to live in LA and work at the top fashion magazine, travel to Paris for Fashion Week, and party at the poshest clubs in their twenties!?! For those of you who watch the show regularly, you may have noticed the "Dove Fresh Takes" micro-series, starring Alicia Keys, that's been airing during the commercial breaks. It follows the lives of three roommates in their mid-twenties living in New York City, showing the day-to-day issues and pressures a twenty-something woman faces in today's world. The micro-series is entertaining and funny and I love the fact that they are independent, searching for their passions and working hard to achieve their dreams. Reminds me of myself and how I left Indiana at 18, not quite knowing where life would take me, but positive that it would be in the right direction! I'm so grateful I had the courage to follow my heart and go after my dreams. "Dove Fresh Takes" is a reminder that regardless of what happens, each day is a new day, another opportunity to begin again and start over and I definitely love the beauty in that!
Mischo Beauty Alert: Mario Badescu Samples
If you read my post yesterday, then you know how much I can't stress enough the importance of implementing a skincare regimen. And luckily, I recently just found out that when you visit the website of Mario Badescu (whose spa clients include Sarah Jessica Parker and Jennifer Aniston) you have the opportunity to receive a free skincare regimen of samples!
Complete the skin analysis questionnaire and you'll receive a follow-up email. Shortly thereafter, the samples should arrive in the mail. I just received 8 samples, which consisted of a full skincare regimen for my skin type. Included was also a product guide with specific steps on how to use the samples. So if you're searching for a skincare line and want to sample the products first, I'd definitely give this a try!
Mischo Beauty Product Review: John Varvatos Women's Fragrance Collection
John Varvatos recently launched his first fragrance collection for women consisting of perfume, bath oil, body milk and exfoliating grains. The fragrance itself, is described as "exuding warmth, delicacy, and sensuality". The scent is a combination of rubrum lilies, Indian mango blossom, rose absolute, jasmine, oak moss, honey and balsamic. The rose colored bottle is very chic and feminine with a rose gold colored top. While the scent is soft and light, it definitely has the spice that lends itself to being described as "exuding sensuality"! While I wouldn't wear this to the office, I'd definitely wear it out at night. It's currently available at Saks Fifth Avenue.
Has anyone tried it? Any thoughts?
(photo courtesy of johnvarvatosfragrance.com)
Mischo Beauty School: At-Home Skincare 101
I posted this earlier this year and felt it only appropriate to post again with the start of the new spring season. For those of you who haven't adopted a skincare regimen, it's never too late! Just about every client I've seen for facials asks me what they should do to maintain the health of their skin in-between facials. Here is my recommendation for an at-home skincare regimen:
1. Cleanse morning & night (never go to bed without removing makeup and cleansing your face!)
2. Tone after cleansing morning & night
3. Use a moisturizer with a minimum of SPF 15 during the day! (90% of aging is caused by UV rays; UVB rays burn the skin and UVA rays age the skin!)
4. Use a moisturizer with antioxidants at night
5. Use an eye cream both morning and night under your moisturizer (this is a preventive measure; signs of aging show first around the eyes, forehead, mouth, neck and hands)
6. Exfoliate 2x a week (helps with cell turnover and with the penetration of product ingredients into the skin)
7. Use a mask 2x a week (many, many benefits!)
8. Take a multi-vitamin daily and drink a minimum of 8 glasses of water daily
9. Eat fresh green vegetables at least 3x a week
10. Make sure you're getting adequate sleep!
The list above is a general guideline and will vary depending on skin type, age and other factors. The most important aspect of caring for your skin at home is first knowing your skin type and making sure you're using products specific to your skin type. For instance, if you have oily skin, look for products specifically for oily skin.
Love your skin.
Please feel free to e-mail me with any questions! Also, please share with us your skincare regimens - we want to know what works for you! Read More......
Beautiful hair needs an expert.
As I'm well aware of the fact that Beyonce's hair is in the BEST of care, I still can't imagine the intense regimen she had to adapt in order to care for her hair through all the rehearsals, perfomances, appearances and traveling. I'm sure her stylist is well versed in haircare, color, cutting, weaving, and wigs because we never see her with the same hairstyle- ever! At any rate, I think her hair is fierce in this photo and I love the fact that Ted Gibson has launched a "Brazen Brown" shampoo and conditioner formulated to not only preserve the haircolor we all invest so much in, but it also accentuates the highlights in both color-treated and natural hair. Perfect products for Beyonce's rich, chocolate brown color!
And as we all know, haircolor is a chemical process that needs extra special care and maintenance to both prolong the color and ensure the hair remains healthy. Ted Gibson's "Goodnite Hair Repair Serum" is an intense treatment for chemically-treated hair that not only strengthens the hair's cuticle, but is strong enough to penetrate and strengthen the innermost core of the hair (the cortex and medulla). Now this treatment sounds like a must-have and since it was created by Ted Gibson- celebrity hairstylist and former Aveda education director, I'm convinced that this product does what it says it's supposed to do!
Has anyone tried any of Ted Gibson's products? Has anyone been to his salon?
(photo courtesy of beyonceworld.net)
Because You're Worth It!
European Facial, Peppermint Body Polish, Spa Manicure and Spa Pedicure at Fred Segal Beauty. Santa Monica, CA. Read More......
Mischo Beauty Pick: Organic Argan Oil
If you've been keeping up with my blog, you all know how much I love jojoba oil and how I've discussed it's use in a variety of hair, skin and nail products. Well I must let you all know that I have a new love and it's Argan Oil. It differs from jojoba oil in that it's extracted from the Argan Tree, which only grows in Morocco and it's very rich in Vitamin E (antioxidant) and essential fatty acids which work together to prevent signs of aging! Premature aging is caused by free radicals which damage skin cells, destroying the skin's collagen and elastin. As a result, the skin begins to sag and show fine lines and wrinkles. Prevention is the key and once I discovered Argan Oil I couldn't wait to start using it. I've been using it at night after cleansing and toning and before moisturizing and I've been waking up to smooth, glowing skin. I'm sure to double cleanse in the morning before applying my eye cream, moisturizer, sunscreen and makeup for the day.
Argan Oil is similar to jojoba oil in that it is also a great moisturizer for hair, skin and nails. And the beauty industry has jumped on the bandwagon! If you haven't noticed, you'll begin to see major cosmetic companies incorporating it into their beauty products. But, nothing beats using the pure 100% certified organic version! It's fragrance free, paraben free and not tested on animals. Because of it's multi-use, you're getting anti-aging benefits, a hair conditioner, body moisturizer and nail strengthener all in one- and that you can't beat!
Is anyone using Argan Oil? Any thoughts?
(photo courtesy of arganbody.com)
Mischo Beauty Closet
Chanel's limited edition "White Satin" nail polish + Chloe's White Patent Leather Sandal Boot = SEX AND THE CITY!
Love the nail polish? Any thoughts on the shoes?
P.S. Only 52 days left until the movie!
(photos courtesy of chloe.com & chanel.com)
Mischo Beauty Reader Favorite: Murad Acne Spot Treatment
My sorority sister Sonja called me to share one of her beauty favorites. It seems that lately she's been having slight acne outbreaks and recently picked up Murad's Acne Spot Treatment. She says she was drawn to it after having used Murad's Clarifying Mask. The results of the mask she defintely loved, but knew she needed a more intense treatment to fight the acne. She also loved the fact that the Murad line of products are recommended by Dermatologists. The spot treatment did exactly as stated with no irritation to her skin or aggravation to the acne itself. In her particular situation, after using the spot treatment, her acne developed into comedones (blackheads) and for that she used the Clarifying Mask, which draws impurities out of pores along with removing dead skin cells. What made me most happy after talking with Sonja is the fact that she doesn't manipulate or "pop" her pimples, which we all know, after yesterday's post, might cause hyperpigmentation (scarring) or the risk of damaging the hair follicle (pore) and causing the acne to spread!
I love it! Thank you Sonja!
Murad Acne Spot Treatment 0.5 oz
If you'd like to share your favorite beauty products, simply send an e-mail to: mischobeauty@gmail.com with "Mischo Beauty Reader Favorite" in the subject line and tell me all about it!
Have you tried Murad products? Do you have a favorite acne spot treatment?
(photo courtesy of sephora.com)
Mischo Beauty: Henri Bendel Beauty Event
Lucky Magazine & CHANEL Get Gorgeous For Spring Event: Thursday, April 17th!
Lucky magazine and CHANEL invite you to get gorgeous for spring and discover the new Aqualumiere Collection. Let CHANEL help you create the most exquisite effects for your lips with a luminous new color range in gloss, lipstick and lip pencils. Sip cocktails, enjoy sweet treats and enter-to-win chic prizes. Wear all three for a finish that's deeply shiny, beautifully natural and delectable. Space is limited. For more details or to book your personalized consultation now, please call 212.904.7983.
(photo courtesy of chanel.com)
Mischo Beauty Review: Erth Mineral Makeup
I'm not a user of mineral makeup so when I was presented with an opportunity to try Erth Mineral Makeup I could hardly wait! I've said this before and I'll say it again, clean and healthy skin is the foundation for beautiful makeup! If your preference for a facial exfoliant is a physical exfoliant, then you'll love the Organic Berry Scrub. It's a combination of fruit pulp and glycolic and alpha lipoic acids that gently work to effectively exfoliate dead skin cells. It left my skin so soft and smooth. The paraben-free Balancing Moisturizer has a rich and creamy texture and not only did it quickly absorb into my skin, but it doubled as a nice primer for the Mineral Foundation. I love the fact that the Mineral Foundations are not only easily buildable, depending on your preferences for coverage, but they also contain an SPF 15. The more protection from the sun, the better! My Mineral Blusher of choice is Petal, which looks very soft and natural on my skin. Glow was my favorite Mineral Bronzer because it was the perfect sun-kissed accent my skin needed during these rainy days of April. Finally, I must admit that I was pleasantly surprised at how pigmented the Intensity Eyeshadows are on my skin. The colors are gorgeous and definitely work with every complexion. I think everyone will discover their own personal favorites in this line and be just as pleasantly surprised as I was!
Has anyone tried Erth skincare or makeup? If so, what are your thoughts?
(logo courtesy of lushbrush.com)
Mischo Beauty School: Hyperpigmentation 101
I received a question from Kia of Yummy 411 with regards to women of color and the issue of hyperpigmentation as a result of having had acne, laser hair removal or from shaving. She wanted to know what I'd recommend to treat the dark areas and if I had a suggestion of a particular concealer for covering discolored areas. In sharing my response with Kia, I wanted to share this with my readers as well.
Let me qualify my response by stating that I am not a medical doctor and this response should not be mistaken as medical advice. My recommendation for treating hyperpigmentation is to first see a dermatologist who can help you determine the cause of the discoloration and the best treatment for it.
Hyperpigmentation is the overproduction of pigment (melanin) which results in discoloration or dark areas on the skin. It may be caused by a number of internal or external factors such as sunlight, injury, trauma, medication, skin diseases and skin treatments and products. Women of color are more susceptible to skin discoloration due to genetics and the differences in physiology. If you have a tendency for this disorder, then you should avoid the following:
1. Sun Exposure (it's one of the biggest causes of hyperpigmentation and will make existing disorders worse)
2. Deep Chemical Peels, Microdermabrasion or Laser Services (these services could result in injury or trauma to the skin)
3. Over-Exfoliation (this will make the disorder worse and might cause hypopigmentation, which is the loss of pigment)
4. Manipulation of Pimples (use an over-the-counter spot treatment or medication prescribed by your dermatologist to treat them)
Because shaving may cause hyperpigmentation for some, in addition to irritated skin and ingrown hairs, I would suggest waxing, threading, or using a depilatory (hair removal cream). Your dermatologist may even have a treatment to block hair growth.
I'd recommend Dermablend products as a concealer. I've heard over and over again how great they are for achieving maximum coverage and a flawless look.
Though skin of color is more susceptible to pigmentation issues, it's advantage is that due to it's difference in physiology, it has a greater protection from the sun and shows fewer signs of aging.
Love your skin.
Please feel free to e-mail me with any questions!
Any thoughts on hyperpigmentation? I'd love to hear what you think! Read More......
Mischo Beauty Review: Rescue Beauty Lounge
On Sunday, a friend and I traveled to New York to celebrate her birthday with the treat of spa treatments. We chose Rescue Beauty Lounge and Bliss due to their constant exposure in the chicest glossies (Vogue, Allure, Instyle, Elle, etc.) and the fact that they were started by fearless beauty professionals, like ourselves, who had the courage to step out on faith and pursue their entrepreneurial dreams.
Our first stop was Rescue Beauty Lounge (34 Gansevoort) for the Signature Pedicure. I have to preface this with the reminder that I'm a licensed beauty professional, as is my friend, who is an esthetician and manicurist. Upon entry you could see that the minimalist, chic interior could possibly benefit from an upgrade (which, in today's economy, could be daunting). The retail area had a variety of beauty products to choose from, but lacked a wide selection of nail colors. The staff was very friendly and very accomodating, but I was surprised to see that the nail techs' "uniforms" were individually chosen jeans and white t-shirts. They looked a bit uncoordinated and uncomfortable.
I would give the pedicure I received an average rating. The pedicure seating area was well-designed, but was small, leaving little room for movement of any sort. I'm an easy pedicure because I never have my cuticles cut, nor do I ever need to have dead skin removed (I do that regularly at home). So my nail tech cut and shaped my nails, pushed my cuticles back, applied the exfoliating body wash, moisturized my feet and polished my nails. She failed to massage my legs and feet and the steamed towels she applied after the moisturizer had already cooled. The rolled tissue, which was used as toe separators, easily leads to polished toes touching each other, and appeared out of place.
The nail tech did an excellent job polishing my nails with their Killa Red nail polish, which I loved so much that I bought a bottle, along with the Citrus Vert Exfoliating Body Wash (which was used as my foot scrub). I love the Rescue Beauty Lounge concept of the intimate boutique nail spa and the signature treatments and products, and I admire all that Ji Baek (the founder) has been able to accomplish.
I'd love to hear your thoughts? Has anyone been to either location?
Mischo Beauty Review: Bliss 49
My final stop in the city was Bliss 49, located inside the ultra-luxe W Hotel, for my Triple Oxygen Treatment facial.
Upon arrival we were checked in and escorted to the locker room for changing into our robes. Once we changed, we lounged in the relaxation area and were too excited to see the tray of brownie bites and the variety of refreshments we'd read about over the years. After completing the consultation forms, we were escorted back to the treatment rooms by our estheticians.
The Triple Oxygen Treatment facial includes an intensive cleansing, exfoliating fruit acid wash, pre-extraction oxygen wrap, extractions, calming oxygen milk mask, hydrating enzyme pack and the vitaminized oxygen spray. The only part of the facial I opted out of were the extractions, which I leave to my regular esthetician. In it's place I was upgraded to the hydrating seaweed mask. The esthetician's effleurage movement was very smooth and very relaxing, and the neck, decollete, arm, hand and foot massages were fabulous. I felt so relaxed that I caught myself dozing off to sleep!
Being the beauty professional that I am, I did notice that my skin analysis was rushed, my lip gloss wasn't removed until mid-way through the service and I did notice that my mascara wasn't completely removed when I looked at my skin after the facial. I was surprised that my esthetician didn't suggest products for home use to maintain all the hard work she'd done.
I left with the Triple Oxygen Instant Energizing Mask and the Sleeping Peel Serum and I can't wait to start using them. My skin was glowing after the facial and still is- and I actually received compliments from those who would not have noticed otherwise! The facial was beyond amazing. I'll say that again- it was beyond amazing! I've had lots of facials and this was by far the best.
If you haven't experienced this, then you definitely should, because it's worth it!
Has anyone been to any of the Bliss spas? Any thoughts?
(photo courtesy of blissworld.com)
Mischo Beauty School: Skin Analysis 101
I've said this before and I'll say it again- I can't begin to name all the reasons why you should incorporate facials into your beauty routine! Not only are facials relaxing and pampering, but they are crucial to maintaining the health of your skin. In my opinion, and as a licensed esthetician, one of the most important steps in a facial treatment is the skin analysis. An esthetician can't properly treat you unless they know the following - which is only obtained through a proper skin analysis/consultation:
1. Skin type
2. Skin conditions present
3. Skin texture
4. Visible appearance of skin
5. If you have allergies to products or scents
6. Why you are there
7. What your concerns are
8. What products you use at home
9. If you have had facial treatments in the past
10. If you are on medication
The esthetician should use a magnifying lamp/light during the skin analysis in order to properly see the skin and perform detailed work. A proper skin analysis will help the esthetician know what products and services should be performed and which are contraindicated. A contraindication is a factor or reason that makes it inadvisable to proceed with a treatment. They include certain medications, contagious diseases, skin disorders, medical conditions and skin irritation.
The misuse of products or poor facial treatments will harm the skin. At the end of your facial service you should leave knowing what your skin conditions are and what you can do to improve your skin's health. Products for home care should be recommended and preventive measures should be discussed.
Love your skin.
I'd love to hear your facial stories! Please share! Oh, and please feel free to e-mail me with any questions!
P.S. I had the Triple Oxygen Treatment Facial at Bliss 49 and the Signature Pedicure at Rescue Beauty Lounge yesterday. Please stay tuned for my reviews!* Read More......
Beautiful hair needs an expert.
Like most of you I'm anxiously counting down the days until the "Sex and the City" movie release of May 30th and recently spotted this photo of Sarah Jessica Parker on InStyle.com. When I saw her hair I was reminded that she is the celebrity spokesmodel for Garnier Nutrisse haircolor. I love the new haircolor on her, it's such a welcome change from the two inches of root new growth we saw on Carrie, week after week- and I do love Carrie Bradshaw!.
Garnier Fructis is a great drugstore brand with a product for every hair need. There's a shampoo and conditioner for volume, moisture, color protection, curl enhancement or strength- something for everyone! The key ingredient in all of the Garnier Fructis products is a "Reinforced Active Fruit Concentrate" which is formulated with vitamins B3, B6, fructose and glucose. These ingredients all work together, penetrating through the cuticle layer of the hair to strengthen, smooth and add shine.
For Sarah Jessica Parker's color-treated hair, I'd recommend the Color Shield Shampoo, Color Shield Conditioner and the Color Shield Leave-In Conditioning Cream. The Color Shield products protect color-treated hair while adding much needed moisture, often depleted from chemical processes. In addition to the Reinforced Active Fruit Concentrate, they all contain a UV protectant, which protects against damaging free radicals and prevents color from fading. I love what this line is formulated to do and I love the fact that it's budget friendly and available everywhere. I recommend it!
Have you tried any of the Garnier products? If so, what are your thoughts?
(photos courtesy of InStyle.com & garnier.com)
