It was actually yesterday- May 30th! I spent the day getting settled since my move, and the evening with four fabulous friends having dinner at Oya, watching the "Sex and the City" movie and having drinks at PURE- and it was fabulous!
A very, very, very special thanks- from the bottom of my heart - to all my readers for your support!
In the spirit of all things "Sex and the City" I leave you with my favorite quote:
Carrie: "Later that day I got to thinking about relationships. There are those that open you up to something new and exotic, those that are old and familiar, those that bring up lots of questions, those that bring you somewhere unexpected, those that bring you far from where you started, and those that bring you back. But the most exciting, challenging and significant relationship of all is the one you have with yourself. And if you find someone to love the you you love, well, that's just fabulous."
Have you seen the movie yet? Did you love it?
Mischo Beauty Celebrates ONE YEAR!
Beautiful hair needs an expert: Kerastase Volumactive
Of all the "Sex and the City" premiere photos I've seen thus far of Sarah Jessica Parker, this is my favorite and I'm especially loving her hat! She's been traveling all over the world for premiere showings of the movie and her hair must be in need of TLC from all the styling. My recommendation for full body, volume and protection is Kerastase's Volumactive spray. It's a leave-in treatment, applied to the hair when wet, and formulated with the Vita-Ciment technology- which strengthens the hair from the inside (medulla, cortex, cuticle) out. The perfect protection for heat styling, when volume is needed.
What's your favorite Kerastase product?
Because You're Worth It!
A microscopic study of your hair, precise product prescription, private shampoo, scalp massage, conditioning treatment, and styling - and treat yourself to a facial, body treatment or waxing. Phyto Universe. New York City.
Mischo Beauty Pick: Lancôme Flash Bronzer Self-Tanning Face Gel
In my post, earlier today, I talked about how much I'm loving the Shade to Order self tanner by True Blue Spa. I failed to mention that I'm not using it on my face though. I read the manufacturer's directions like five times to make sure I hadn't misread them and it didn't mention use on the face. Now there's no way I can walk around with a bronzed body and pale face so I picked up Lancome's Flash Bronzer for the face and I love it! I've been using it every other day - I just want a natural-looking, bronzy glow- nothing too harsh and I'm loving the results. Because it contains 100% pure vitamin E, it gives me enough moisture so that I can skip using my regular moisturizer and just apply my sunblock on top of it. I love, love, love my natural glow and the scent agrees with me just fine!
(photo courtesy of lancome-usa.com)
Mischo Beauty Reader Vote: Noemie Lenoir and Laetitia Casta’s French Vogue June/July 2008 Covers
I promise to get back to all the reviews as soon as I'm finished packing and can sort out my products! But, in the meantime, I'd love to know which cover of the June/July 2008 issue of French Vogue you're loving the most! They've released two covers for the June/July issue and I think they're both beautifully executed!
(photos courtesy of vogue.fr)
Mischo Beauty Reader Favorite: True Blue Spa Shade to Order
I can't technically say that today's pick is a reader favorite, but my fellow beauty blogger "BeautyLogic" loves it and now I'm hooked! I love showing off my legs in the summer, but I'll admit that they're on the paler side- as my sisters would say. Granted, I have one sister the complexion of Tracee Ellis Ross and the other has the complexion of Nia Long- so as you can see, they never have any worries! Anyway, True Blue Spa's Shade to Order self-tanner is great because it has a dial that allows you to control the intensity of the self-tanner being dispensed. So in essence, you're selecting the shade that best fits you. I love that it's also a moisturizer and leaves my skin soft and smooth. But best of all- there is no funky self-tanner scent! It has a very soft coconut scent and I must tell you that I'm more than pleased with it! Are you using a self-tanner? If so, how it is working for you?
(photo courtesy of bathandbodyworks.com)
Mischo Beauty: Liya Kebede’s British Harper’s Bazaar May 2008 Cover
I can't believe I almost missed this! She's so beautiful.
Mischo Beauty Product Review: Caress Brazilian Exotic Oil Infusions Body Wash
Lately when I've traveled to Indianapolis to see my sister, she always seems to be stocked up on body wash by Caress, her favorite being Daily Silk. Since she's only a short flight from DC and I usually carry my luggage on, most times I leave my body wash at home (so as not to have to deal with finding the appropriate travel size container) and just use what she has- which I actually really like! When I was presented with an opportunity to try the new Brazilian Exotic Oil Infusions Body Wash by Caress, I was excited. The body wash is a combination of a cream and oil (Passion Flower Cream and Acai Fruit Oil) and the scent, though very mild, reminded me of mangos- soft, sweet and definitely not overbearing. After using it my skin felt smooth, soft and thoroughly moisturized with absolutely no oily residue! Has anyone tried this? Any thoughts?
(photo courtesy of caressbrazilian.com)
Mischo Beauty: Rihanna's ELLE Magazine June 2008 Cover
Earlier this year I stated that it wasn't until Rihanna cut her hair that I really started to notice her. Since then I've completely fallen in love with her glam squad, though I have yet to find out who they officially are! If anyone knows, please share! Anyway, she's featured on the June 2008 cover of ELLE Magazine and the glam squad responsible for her fabulous looks are:
Hairstylist: Ursula Stephen for Epiphany Artist Group, Inc.
Makeup: Mylah Morales for the B. Lynn Group
Manicurist: Kimmie Kyees at Opusbeauty.com
Stylist: Joe Zee
Photographer: Gilles Bensimon
Love the looks?
(photos courtesy of elle.com)
Mischo Beauty Pick: Juice Beauty Antioxidant Serum
So I finally finished moving over the weekend and when I looked at myself in the mirror last night all I saw was stressed and tired skin. So I immediately followed the steps of my Juice Beauty skincare regimen (which I will post more about later this week) and this morning I woke up to calm and refreshed skin! I'm giving most of the credit to the Juice Beauty Antioxidant Serum which specifically treats stressed skin, and skin damaged by the environment, by working to regenerate and rehydrate skin cells. The serum is certified organic and contains vitamin A and E liposomes which fight free radicals along with certified organic oils which work to regenerate and nouris the skin. I love it and recommend it!
Has anyone else tried it?
Juice Beauty Antioxidant Serum 2 oz
(photo courtesy of juicebeauty.com)
Mischo Beauty School: Serums 101
So today I'd like to share with you the benefits of serums. I believe in serums and am amazed at how the skin benefits from them! A serum is a highly concentrated treatment of active ingredients used to penetrate and treat various skin conditions such as dehydration, stress, environmental damage, fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation issues or loss of elasticity. They're usually made up of vitamins, lipids or antioxidants and are usually the consistency of a thin liquid.
To allow for maximum penetration into the skin, they're formulated with smaller molecules which make them extremely effective. They can be used both day and night and are usually applied under a moisturizer, but can be used alone. During a facial an esthetician might apply a serum under your mask or before the application of your moisturizer, depending on your specific skincare needs.
So, do you need a serum? Well, I would suggest following a skincare regimen first. Once you're consistent with your regimen, really begin to pay attention to your skin and make not- for example- of dehydrated areas, loss of elasticity and dullness. If your skincare regimen doesn't correct these issues, then I'd highly suggest investing in a serum!
Love your skin.
Any questions? Read More......
Beautiful hair needs an expert: Korres Yucca Soft Shine Wax
I've always been one to love a great styling product that I can count on to put the finishing touches on a freshly styled client. The Yucca Soft Shine Wax by Korres is perfect for taming flyaways and adding shine. You need very little- because a little does go a long way! I'd totally recommend it for Salma Hayek's red carpet look due to it's flexibility and the fact that it will allow for many, many touch-ups as she continues to make appearances throughout the evening. I love the fact that it contains sunflower extract which provides protection against free radicals in the environment.
Has anyone tried it? What's your favorite Korres product?
Korres Yucca Soft Shine Wax 1.69 oz
(photos courtesy of instyle.com & korres.com)
Because You're Worth It: "Manolos and Mimosas" at The Ritz-Carlton
You all know by now that my weekly "Because You're Worth It!" posts always focus on fabulous spa treatments from spas all over the world! So while searching for a spa getaway for this week's post, I found this amazing "Manolos and Mimosas" package at The Ritz Carlton, Naples. I've got "Carrie Fever" and am too excited to see the movie, so I had to pass this along to those of you who are still making plans! Click here to check out the details and let me know what you think!
P.S. I'm loving the "Bebek" Manolo Blahniks on SJP! So beautiful...
Mischo Beauty Closet: OPI's "I'm india Mood for Love" + DSQUARED's Satin Sandals
OPI's "I'm india Mood for Love" + DSQUARED's Satin Sandals = UPGRADE U
Mischo Beauty is on Twitter!
It's official- I've just joined! You can follow me here...
Mischo Beauty: Madonna's ELLE Magazine Covers
Ok I promise - no more posts on Madonna (smile)! But I couldn't help it- I love these covers of her! Which is your favorite?
Mischo Beauty Loves: Madonna for Versace Spring/Summer 2005 Ad Campaign
You all know that I'm a lover of a beautifully executed ad campaign and this is one of my favorites! I know there were many people (creative director, art director, photographer, makeup artist, hairstylist, fashion stylist, manicurist, etc.) who worked together to make this a success. I will say though that I think Madonna's hair was retouched too much- it doesn't look natural like it should- I can't tell if it's her natural hair, a wig or weave! At any rate I still love the ad campaign and I love the fact that at almost 50, she's more fabulous than ever!
Madonna is everywhere these days- especially since the release of her new album "Hard Candy"! She's a lover of shu uemura products and my friend Julia of "All About the Pretty" tells you, step-by-step, how Madonna's look from the album cover was created.
Any shu uemura lovers out there?
Mischo Beauty School: Hair Texture 101
So let's discuss hair texture. Hair texture is often a point of confusion, but simply means the diameter of each individual hair. The texture of hair generally falls into one of the following five categories:
A. Very Coarse
B. Coarse
C. Average
D. Fine
E. Very Fine
The coarser the hair, the thicker the cuticle and larger the cortex (the middle layer of the hair). Stronger, coarser hair textures will be able to withstand stronger chemicals and rougher treatments than fine hair. For example, I have coarse to very coarse hair and I'm surprised that I have hair today after allowing stylist after stylist to overprocess my hair (unknowingly!) during my college years. But due to my hair's strength it's been able to withstand the damage!
Hair textures have nothing to do with the quantity of individual hairs on the head so it is possible to have a thick head of fine hair and on the other hand a thin distribution of coarse hair. Make sense? Please feel free to e-mail me with any questions!
Love your hair. Read More......
Beautiful hair needs an expert.
I'm sure by now you all know I'm a huge Kerry Washington fan! She'd been wearing a bob haircut, until this most recent photo of her with extensions. My guess is that her stylist used a two inch barrel curling iron to create the soft, flowing curls. My recommendation to seal the hair's cuticle and ensure that her curls are smooth and full of shine would be to use Elasta QP's Elucent Power Drops. The drops are formulated with squalane (oil derived from olives) and vitamin E which work together to provide maximum moisture. A few drops are all you need and your hair is infused with a great conditioning treatment, as well as shine!
Do you have a favorite gloss for your hair?
(photos courtesy of instyle.com & elastaqp.com)
Because You're Worth It!
Urban Renewal Facial + Therapeutic Stone Massage + Signature Pedicure at Cornelia Day Resort. New York City.
(photos courtesy of cornelia.com)
Mischo Beauty Closet
Lippman Collection Nail Color in "Night & Day" (Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP), Formaldehyde, Toluene, Formaldehyde Resin and Camphor free!) + Delphina Metallic Platform Sandal by Sergio Rossi = LOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOVE!
Mischo Beauty Product Review: SOMME INSTITUTE Skincare with MDT5 Technology
I was given the opportunity to try the Somme Institute Skincare line a month ago, but because I'd just switched my skincare from Dermalogica to REN (and I'm really loving REN), I decided to send it to my reader "Curly Gurl" to try. She quite often leaves questions for me with regards to skincare issues she's having and desperately wants to start a skincare regimen that works for her. So I sent her the Nourishing Cleanser, Transport (exfoliant), Serum, A-Bomb (face cream), Double Defense Day Moisture SPF30 and the Eye Cream.
Ok, so the scientist in me was excited to learn that these products are formulated with a Molecular Dispersion Technology 5 (MDT5) which is a molecular antioxidant compound of 5 highly engineered vitamins (A, C, E, D, B3 and B5) that penetrate deep within the skin, at high concentrations, to repair and rejuvenate skin cells. They're formulated to treat all skin types and conditions such as sun damage, fine lines & wrinkles, acne and discoloration, as well as improve tone and texture. Woooooow! So here's what "Curly Gurl" had to say after using the products for 3 weeks:
Nourishing Cleanser: "It's a non-soap cleansing lotion that gently cleans skin without irritating it. I like it even though it is not a necessary part of the regimen. I would elect to use it anyway since it cleaned the skin before I swiped with the Transport pad, which meant the pad wasn't as filled with dirt as it could have been and I only had to use one for the face, neck and upper chest."
Transport: "It exfoliates with alpha acids; can sting a bit (my skin is sensitive, but I did not do as they advised and squeeze out the pad for sensitive skin). I liked it, which is good since it is one of the three core/integral products in the regimen. My skin felt as if it had been to a Moroccan bath house - a little stingy but hella clean!"
Serum: "Another of the three core elements of the regimen. I don't know if I can judge it as a stand-alone product, but the results have been amazing so if it is an integral part of getting to the results I've seen after only 16 days, then bring it on! I would say be careful with it around the eyes (which Somme Institute also says)."
A-Bomb: "A luscious moisturizing cream. I love it! My skin is actually soft like a baby's bottom! I think there is some sort of collagen in this product- it is so effective. I used all items, except the Double Defense, morning and night. I have sensitive skin and this gave me no problems at all. I am very happy with the increased suppleness of my skin and it's healthy, fresh look (dare I say, dewy even???!!!)."
New Eye Cream: "I am ambivalent about the eye cream. I don't think I've used it long enough to see marked results. Even the manufacturer says it is an optional item as you can use the A-Bomb carefully around the eyes. But I have noticed some crinkles at the outer corners of my eyes and sagginess underneath (though not extreme) so I will continue to use the eye cream for a month or two to see what comes of it."
Double Defense SPF30: "I liked this as well. This only goes on in the morning and I felt so accomplished protecting my skin and healing it at the same time. This moisturizer is very lightweight to contain a sunscreen, thus it spread very easily and absored quickly into my skin. I was very happy about that!"
"Overall, after only 2 days I felt I looked rested in a way I normally do not because of my hectic schedule and various responsibilities. My skin feels more supple and looks firmer and healthier. My adult acne issues are being resolved!! I have been struggling over the past 3-4 months with adult acne and was given a spot gel by the dermatologist, which stings like crazy and just isn't very effective. This regimen feels very easy on my skin and is actually doing what it claims to do. My acne began drying up and fading at day 2, my skin has a healthy glow (my mother thought I'd gotten a tan!) that in turn makes me feel more energetic (looking tired brings you down!). This is a pricey system, but only three items (Transport, Serum and A-Bomb) are core products. I believe it is totally worth the investment to nurture and heal your body's largest organ. Healthy skin makes for healthy people!"
Thank you "Curly Gurl"! Has anyone tried this line? Any thoughts?
(photo courtesy of sommeinstitute.com)
Mischo Beauty Pick: Super Sensitive Faceblock SPF30
I'm an esthetician so I believe in protecting my skin, along with the fact that my mother has always told me to wear a hat, cover up outside and wear sunscreen! The higher the SPF- the better! UVA rays will break down your collagen and elastin, causing sagging skin and fine lines and wrinkles - therefore causing you to age quicker- so you really do need protection - regardless of your complexion! If I meet another woman of color who tells me she doesn't use an SPF, I think I might scream! I love Dermalogica's Super Sensitive Faceblock SPF30 because it contains no chemicals (no artifical colors or fragrances) which works for my normal to combination skin that is easily sensitized. It's light and absorbs right into my skin on top of my moisturizer.
Do you have a sunscreen favorite? Please let me know!
(photo courtesy of dermalogica.com)
Mischo Beauty: Chanel Robertson Collection
Correct me if I'm wrong but I'm pretty sure Rihanna was one of the first celebrities styled with the brightest nails- remember the Grammy's? At any rate, Chanel is now on board with it's upcoming launch of bright shades created exclusively for the new Chanel boutique on Robertson Boulevard (where young hollywood shops; and the homes of Intermix, Kitson, etc). The limited edition collection includes a pink, yellow, purple and tangerine and will be available on chanel.com in July. Looks like the tangerine is my pick thus far, what about you?
(photo courtesy of chanel.com)
Mischo Beauty School: Facials 101
I can't begin to name all the reasons why you should incorporate facials into your beauty routine, right now, TODAY! Ok, I'm an esthetician, so I guess I'm a little biased- but seriously you should! I can't begin to tell you again how great my last facial was and how facials are "my essential beauty product"! Not only are facials relaxing and pampering, but they are crucial to maintaining the health of your skin.
First, let's understand what exactly a facial is! A facial is a service performed by an esthetician designed to improve and revive the skin. They help maintain the skin's health and correct skin conditions through a professional deep cleansing, massage, and the use of masks and other products and treatments. Here are a few of the many benefits:
1. SLOWS DOWN PREMATURE AGING
2. Professional Deep Cleansing
3. Professional Deep Exfoliation
4. Increases Circulation & Detoxifies
5. Professional Skin Analysis, Product Recommendation & Custom Home Skincare Regimen
6. Stimulates Skin Renewal & Metabolism
7. Corrects/Alleviates Dryness, Oiliness & Redness
8. Softens Wrinkles & Aging Lines
9. Helps Clear Up Blemishes & Minor Acne
10. SLOWS DOWN PREMATURE AGING
Love your skin.
Anyone had a fabulous facial lately? Please feel free to e-mail me with any questions!
Read More......
Because You're Worth It!
Vitamin Infusion Facial + White Cloud Algae Body Mask + Ultimate Manicure & Pedicure at Aqua Spa. Delano Hotel (Miami, FL)
(photos courtesy of delano-hotel.com)
Beautiful hair needs an expert.
What I loved most about it - along with the shine- was that the hold was flexible which meant that if my client wanted to restyle or run her fingers through her hair, she could with no issues. Believe me- not an issue with me- due to the fact that I'm always one to leave my stylist's chair, get into the car and restyle my hair in the rear view mirror! LOL.
Anyone have a hairspray favorite?
(photos courtesy of instyle.com & davines.com) Read More......
