Mischo Beauty Alert: The Jane Carter Solution Target Launch

You all already know how much I HEART the Jane Carter Solution, and in case you haven't heard, they're launching in Target soon (I hope the formulations don't change!). And to celebrate this exciting news, there's a party tonight (details above). Unfortunately I'm unable to attend, but if you're able, please be sure to stop back by and let us all know how it was! Enjoy!

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Mischo Beauty Loves Fashion Fair Cosmetics' Lip Teasers

I'll be the first to admit that I haven't stopped at a Fashion Fair Cosmetics' makeup counter in ages- actually since undergrad (when we really only wore lipstick!). You see, there was a lipstick shade- a golden coppery brown (I can't remember the exact name) - that I was in love with and used to buy all the time. And then- well, then MAC came along....and you know the rest of the story!

Anyway, Fashion Fair Cosmetics isn't going anywhere any time soon, and has recently launched a new collection of lip glosses called Lip Teasers- available in nine shades. In addition, there's a new collection of makeup brushes, a range of skincare, and of course the full makeup collection- all available here.

So I'm curious to know- have you ever worn Fashion Fair makeup? And if so, are you still wearing it? Or, do you feel this collection is more for your mother, aunt or grandmother? Please share!

Disclosure: Products in this post were provided for consideration by the company. For more information, please see my disclosure.

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Mischo Beauty: Illamasqua Nail Varnish & Creme of Nature Winners!

A few readers emailed me a while ago inquiring about Illamasqua nail polish. Well, it's now available at Sephora here in the US. Here's a list of stores worldwide...

And the winners of the Creme of Nature products are as follows:

- Havilland
- Ann
- Antithesis
- Vanessa S
- Hush
- Dolls123
- Eve
- Sway Poetess
- LiveLoveThinkGolden
- NewRibena

Please email me your mailing addresses. Thanks to everyone for entering!

Disclosure: Products in this post were provided for consideration by the company. For more information, please see my disclosure.

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Mischo Beauty School: Nail Shape 101

I'll be the first to admit that while I loved the chocolate, burgundy and deep blues & green nail colors for the fall/winter, I can't wait to start wearing the bright, neon and pastel colors for the spring/summer. With that said, let's discuss how to choose a nail shape before your manicure appointment.

Here are a few things to consider:

1. The shape of your hands
2. The length of your fingers
3. The shape of your cuticles
4. The type of work you do

I was always taught (well I learned this in cosmetology school, during the nail curriculum!) that the shape of your nail should mirror the shape of your cuticles. This will ensure the most natural look, which in turn compliments your hands. And believe it or not- here are the most requested shapes:

1. Square Nail
2. Round Nail
3. Oval Nail
4. Squoval Nail
5. Pointed Nail

Keep in mind that an unusual shape will definitely draw attention to your nails and hands. And, if you work with your hands, you should definitely choose a shape that will allow for a shorter nail length in order to avoid breakage.

Questions? What's your nail shape and why? Love your nails.

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Mischo Beauty Alert: Phyto's "Unleash Your Creativity" VIP Runway Show!

If you're in Chicago this weekend and love hair (especially haircolor!) as much as I do- then you need to check this event out! Celebrity hairstylist Andy Lecompte (LOVE his portfolio and his salon!) will be sharing styling tips, and you'll have the opportunity to check out the new Subtil Hair Color collection. Learn more here!

And if you attend, you must let us know how it was!

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What are your thoughts on Essence Magazine’s Beauty Director & Cover Editor, Mikki Taylor’s recent departure from the magazine?

I'm sure you've all heard the news about her retirement, and according to a press release issued by Essence, she will move into the position of Editor-at-Large. I had no idea she'd been with the magazine for 30 years- amazing! Growing up, the magazine could easily be found in my mother's home, grandmother's home- it really was all black women had for so many years. Mikki's direction of and contributions to the magazine will definitely be missed!

So my question for you today is: What are your thoughts on Mikki's departure? Do you think the magazine will suffer because of it? Or, do you feel change is great, and this is just a move in a new/fresh direction?

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Mischo Beauty Giveaway: Creme of Nature

As part of Creme of Nature's new "I Love Creme of Nature" advertising campaign, I was selected as one of the most influential beauty bloggers! I'm honored and very thankful! And to celebrate this amazing news, I've partnered with Creme of Nature to offer ten (10) winners the following:

- Sunflower & Coconut Detangling Conditioning Shampoo
- Jojoba Conditioner
- Chamomile and Comfrey Healing Conditioner for Dehydrated Hair
- Selection of one (1) Relaxer or one (1) Hair Color

Now here's how you can win:

- Follow me on Twitter (@mischobeauty) and retweet (RT) the following:
"Enter to win a set of Creme of Nature products! http://bit.ly/c7Yjyr {pls RT to win!} #mischobeautygiveaway"

- Join my Facebook fan page (http://bit.ly/9tIZJE)

- Leave a comment below letting me know that you've done the items listed above, and also tell me what you love most about your hair!

Winners will be chosen at random on Monday, March 29th. Giveaway open to US and Canadian residents.

Disclosure: Products in this post were provided for consideration by the company. For more information, please see my disclosure.

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Mischo Beauty Pick: HIRSANA Golden Millet Oil Capsules

You all might remember the post where we shared our vitamin/supplement regimens- with the point being that "beauty begins within- diet matters and is always revealed in the health of your hair, skin and nails!". So now that we've gotten that out of the way- I'd like to introduce you to HIRSANA Golden Millet Oil Capsules.

The capsules are formulated with vitamins E, B6, thiamine, riboflavin, pantothenic acid, biotin and zinc- which all contribute to the health of your hair, skin and nails. They also contain millet oil (yes, another oil!), which contributes to hair, skin and nail rejuvenation. Of course, supplements aren't a substitute for a balanced diet- oh, and don't expect to see results overnight (may take at least 3 -6 months). I definitely think these are worth trying- you may learn more here.

And by the way, tell us about your favorite hair/skin/nail supplement!

Disclosure: Products in this post were provided for consideration by the company. For more information, please see my disclosure.

*Mischo Beauty is a beauty blog for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. If you are in doubt, please seek the advice of your physician. Mischo Beauty is in no way responsible for the effects of posted information. If you choose to try these products, you do so at your own risk.

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Mischo Beauty Alert: Take Cover with Cover FX Flash Mob Style!

If you're on the hunt for the perfect concealer, then you'll definitely want to save the dates- March 24th (New York City) and March 29th (San Francisco)! Show up at the times listed above and show your undereye circles, brown patches and red spots to the Cover FX Flash Mob and receive a FREE retail size Cover FX Concealer (while supplies last!). Oh and don't fear- there is actually a range of shades- check them out here!

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Mischo Beauty: Ayanna's PHYTO Blow-out!

During Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, my new beauty editor- yes, please meet Ayanna Shamese! (pictured above) - and I headed over to Robert Verdi's The Future of Fashion Retreat to enjoy a break away from the Tents, as well as complimentary blow-outs by Phyto.

Using Phyto Professional's Glossing Cream, John Gerard Griffiths of Loft 26 applied about a quarter-size of the cream to Ayanna's previously shampooed and conditioned hair. He then used a round brush to blow Ayanna's natural curls straight.

The blow-out was followed by a flat iron finish, after which a pea-size of the Shine Defining Wax was used to tame any flyaways. Lastly, the Workable Holding Spray was used to set the style- and yes, she was still able to run her fingers through her hair!

So tell us, what do you think? GORGEOUS! Please join me in welcoming, Ayanna!

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Mischo Beauty School: Sun Damage 101

As an esthetician, you all can probably imagine how passionate I am about skincare. And, the one aspect I’m most passionate about is protection from the sun. A misconception exists with regards to wearing sunscreen during cooler months of the year, and the bottom line is this- you need to protect yourself from the sun regardless of the time of year or the temperature outside!

Sun damage is the major external cause of aging and it causes 80-85% of aging. The UV rays of the sun reach the skin in two different forms, as UVB and UVA rays. UVB rays tan the skin, damage the skin’s melanin and cause cancer. Penetrating further into the skin are the UVA rays. These rays weaken the skin’s collagen and elastin fibers, causing wrinkling and sagging in the tissues. Though these fibers naturally weaken as we age, it happens at a much faster rate when exposed to UVA rays.

Not only does sun damage lead to skin cancer, aging, and collagen and elastin deterioration, but also to hyperpigmentation, capillary damage and free radical damage. Avoiding the sun and wearing sunscreen is the best protection for skin. Sunscreens absorb or reflect UV rays. SPF refers to the sun protection factor in sunscreens, so the higher the SPF, the more protection you’ll receive from the sun. Be sure the sunscreen has full spectrum protection (protects the skin from both UVA and UVB rays).

As you all know, sunscreen can be found in the form of a moisturizer and may come in various weights and formulas suitable for various skin types. Everyone needs to wear sunscreen- regardless of your complexion! My recommendation is to wear an SPF of 30 everyday, rain or shine!

Do you wear sunscreen? Have you had skin issues as a result of sun damage?

Love your skin.

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Mischo Beauty Extra: CHANEL's "Particuliere" Nail Polish

So I wasn't too sure about CHANEL's Particuliere #505 nail polish, because I'm palest during this time of the year and I thought it would just wash me out. But, I was wrong! The color is actually very, very chic on and I've received so many compliments!

I guess the color is best described as a "taupe"- but depending on the lighting, at times it looks more brown, and sometimes more gray. Either way, it still looks chic on and I'm glad I treated myself to it! Oh, and it kind of reminds me of this...

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Mischo Beauty: Guerlain Spring 2010 Makeup Collection

What's not to love about Guerlain's newest makeup collection? It's lux cosmetics at its best! And if you haven't seen the collection in-person, then you need to run to your nearest makeup counter THIS weekend!

The collection, called Cherry Blossom, is described as "la vie en rose with an Asian twist". The blush (Blush Eclat in Cherry Blossom) and eyeshadow (Eye Shadow Palette in Jeu D'Ombrelles) were inspired by the colors, tones and softness of the Far East's Cherry blossoms.

The lipstick girl in me (yes, I do prefer lipstick over lip gloss- any day!) loves the two new lipstick lines- Rouge G le Brillant and KissKiss Strass. Both are sheer (which makes them perfect for a day look) and deliver high-shine.

Oh, and I can't forget to mention the luxurious packaging! Again, lux at it's best! Wouldn't you agree? And I must know- are you a lipstick or lip gloss girl, and why?!

Disclosure: Products in this post were provided for consideration by the company. For more information, please see my disclosure.

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Mischo Beauty School: Serums 101

I believe in serums and am amazed at how the skin benefits from them! A serum is simply 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 to use 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 note- 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!

Questions? Love your skin.

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Mischo Beautyliciousness...

Today's post isn't about the hair, makeup or nail polish. And it's not about the dress or shoes. It's about using your gifts, talents and blessings to help those who need it most. You see, it warmed my heart to learn about the opening of the Beyonce Cosmetology Center at the Phoenix House Career Academy, which provides substance abuse treatment services for recovering addicts. Beauty is my passion, and I too have a goal of opening a beauty institute. But giving back is what matters the most, and this is such a great example!

So tell me, how are you using your gifts, talents and blessings to help those who need it most?

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Degree Women Natureffects Launch: TOUCH

I came home to a beautiful bouquet of flowers- compliments of Degree, and the idea behind this third delivery was to add a "touch" of nature to my home. You see, flowers included in the arrangement represent the floral notes (olive leaf, orange flower, honeysuckle & tea tree oil) included in the new Degree Women Natureffects collection. And according to Degree, adding nature to your daily routine improves the way you live by lowering stress and increasing happiness.

So that's the goal with this new launch of antiperspirants/deodorants and body mists- to positively introduce a little nature into your daily routine. So we've covered taste, sight and now touch...

Stay tuned for the next experience...

Disclosure: Products in this post were provided for consideration by the company. For more information, please see my disclosure.

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Mischo Beauty Loves Jurlique's Jasmine Body Care Lotion & Love Balm

If you follow me on Twitter, then you know that I send beauty tips out daily. One of my favorites happens to be: "After bathing, apply a bath oil/moisturizer to damp skin, which will ensure maximum absorption of product into the skin", and that's exactly what I've been doing with Jurlique's Jasmine Body Care Lotion. It's lightweight, so I definitely see myself using this more in the spring/summer, and the smell, well it's to die for! Seriously.

What I have been using consistently during this dry, cold winter is Jurlique's Love Balm. I'm not sure what's been going on with my cuticles lately, but they've been so dry, almost to the point of being cracked- and we know that's not comfortable. So I've been using the balm (which can be used anywhere your skin needs it) before bed to moisturize my cuticles. It's made with vitamin E, olive, soybean and safflower oil, and I love that it pretty much works instantly on me.

How's your skin been holding up this winter season?

Disclosure: Products in this post were provided for consideration by the company. For more information, please see my disclosure.

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Mischo Beauty Loves Wella SP Hydro Mask & Ends Express

It's no secret that I HEART just about everything Wella, and I blame it on my time spent apprenticing at Vidal Sassoon, where we were required to learn the entire product line. And with that said, I do have my favorites- which happen to be the Power Mask (which I mentioned here and here), Hydro Mask and Ends Express.

The Hydro Mask is recommended for dry hair - no matter the hair type. I've personally witnessed the results this mask delivers, and can't praise it enough! I would suggest using it with heat (hooded hair dryer) and a plastic cap for an even deeper conditioning treatment.

Ends Express is great for those with dry/damaged ends (actually midshaft of the hair to the ends). It works to seal the cuticle, and the result of course is smooth and shiny hair. A little goes a long way, so I'm suggesting using it at night and waking up to soft, sealed ends.

Have you tried, or are you using any Wella products?

Disclosure: Products in this post were provided for consideration by the company. For more information, please see my disclosure.

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Mischo Beauty: The CEW Beauty Awards Product Demonstration

Since joining Cosmetic Executive Women (CEW) a few years ago, I've made it a point to make sure I attend the CEW Beauty Awards Product Demonstration each year. You see, the CEW Beauty Awards (which is the Oscars for the beauty industry) are right around the corner, and so members are given the opportunity to attend the product demonstration in an effort to review all products submitted for an award, before voting on them.

The event was packed, and were hundreds of tables of products! I tried to check out as much as I was able- I just barely made it over to the "hair" and "frangrance" sections! So, of what I was able to get to- here are a few of my favorites (in no particular order):

- Lierac Paris Creme Mesolift
- Kate Somerville Line Release
- Fresh Sugar Acai Body Scrub
- Kiehl's Rare Earth Deep Pore Daily Cleanser
- Carol's Daughter Bring in the Moisture Gentle Face Wash
- Diorshow Brow Styler
- Cle de Peau Beaute Intensifying Cream Eyeliner
- Yves Saint Laurent Mascara Singulier
- REN Mayday Mayday Rescue Balm
- CHANEL Ultra Correction Lift Lifting and Firming Day Cream SPF 15

And those are just to name a few! The winners will be announced on May 21, 2010, but in the meantime you may view the complete list of product entries here.

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What's the best beauty advice you've ever received?

I've always been told that "less is more", which is straightforward, self-explanatory and requires no overthinking! LOL. Ok, so now it's your turn! Please share.

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