Ask Mischo Beauty...
"After reading your blog for over a year now, I've finally made the decision to invest in a serious skincare regimen. But, there are so many steps and products to buy! Do I really need to purchase a toner?"
Thank you so much for your support! I really, really appreciate it! Now I'm biased (I'm a licensed esthetician), so yes, I do recommend you purchase one and here's why. I believe that toners are a necessary step in a skincare regimen. And just to clarify - toners, fresheners and astringents are all essentially the same type of product. But, it is important to note that the products do have different properties and vary by strength and alcohol content.
Most often these liquids are used after cleansing, just before a moisturizer is applied. If using during a mini-facial, for instance, then multiple applications are required. Toners are applied by using a cotton ball/pad or by spraying directly onto the skin. Most fall into the following categories below:
- Fresheners: Beneficial for dry, mature and sensitive skin. Often have the lowest to no alcohol content.
- Toners: Beneficial for normal and combination skin. Very low alcohol content; tones or tightens the skin.
- Astringents: Beneficial for oily and acneic skin. Higher alcohol content; helps remove excess oil on the skin, but can be too drying and may cause more harm than good.
So, here are the benefits:
- Removes residue left behind by cleansers.
- Restores the skin's natural pH after cleansing or other treatments.
- Prepares the skin for increased product absorption.
- May improve certain skin conditions (some toners contain
vitamins/antioxidants, etc.).
I hope this helps. Please stop back by and let us know how you decide to move forward! And as always, please feel free to send me any additional questions you might have. Love your skin.
If you have beauty questions you'd like answered, please send them to mischobeauty@gmail.com. Read More......
Posted by Mischo Beauty , Monday, February 28, 2011 at 2:38 PM
Labels: ask mischo beauty, astringent, at-home skincare regimen, esthetician, facial, freshener, mini-facial, skincare regimen, toner, Toners
Mischo Beautyliciousness...
Posted by Mischo Beauty , Friday, February 25, 2011 at 4:38 PM
Labels: Beyonce, blonde, blonde hair, gwen stefani, hair color, Haircolor, L'Oreal Paris, mischo beautyliciousness
Do you consider yourself "natural" if you've stopped using hair relaxers, but still use haircolor?
So my question for you today is: Do you consider yourself "natural" if you've stopped using hair relaxers, but still use haircolor? Read More......
Posted by Mischo Beauty , at 4:32 PM
Labels: Cosmetologist, hair relaxer, Haircolor, mischo beauty wants to know, natural hair
Mischo Beauty Review: Xtreme Lashes by Rachel Grante
The next part of the service involved cleansing and priming my natural lashes, followed by the actual application of lashes. During this process, the natural lash is isolated, followed by the coating of the lash extension base with XLFlexFusion adhesive, followed by the application of the extension one-by-one to the natural lashes. Depending on the number of lashes desired on each eye, application time can take up to two hours. I requested somewhat of a dramatic look (you can see my before and after on the Mischo Beauty Facebook fan page) and I loved the outcome!
The extensions last 4-6 weeks, with a touch-up needed usually every two weeks (your natural eyelashes shed similar to the hair on the rest of your body). I was advised to avoid water, steam, excessive heat and other activities for the first 48 hours to allow the adhesive to dry thoroughly. The lashes are gorgeous and I've received tons of compliments - and yes, that was the goal! Mission accomplished!
To book an appointment with Rachel, please call 703-350-2638.
Disclosure: Products in this post were provided for consideration by the company. For more information, please see my disclosure.
Read More......
Posted by Mischo Beauty , Thursday, February 24, 2011 at 3:40 PM
Labels: artifical eyelashes, eyelash extensions, individual lashes, Lashes, mischo beauty review, Rachel Grante, Salon Daniel
Mischo Beauty School: Peels 101
Well, the process of removing the excess accumulation of dead skin cells from the outer most layer of skin (epidermis) is referred to as superficial peeling or exfoliation. It can be accomplished mechanically (microdermabrasion), manually (scrubs), or chemically- which is the category that includes "peels".
Peels used by estheticians are designed to penetrate only the epidermis and are noninvasive/nonaggressive. "Deeper peels" which are those used by physicians (dermatologists) penetrate deeper into the skin (dermal layer - also called living tissue - which sits below the epidermis) and may use chemicals such as glycolic acid (50% or more).
So, now that we know that peels are a form of chemical exfoliation, here are a few of the many benefits:
1. Improves skin texture, hydration & moisture retention
2. Increases the rate of cell turnover
3. Improves elastin & collagen production
4. Reduces fine lines, wrinkles and pigmentation issues
5. May control skin conditions such as acne, hyperpigmentation & eczema
So you're probably wondering if you're a candidate for a peel? Well, in my professional opinion, if you could benefit from any of those listed above, then you're definitely a candidate for a peel administered by an esthetician. If exfoliation is a normal part of your skincare regimen, then a professional peel treatment, no more than once a month, should be sufficient.
Now, are you a candidate for a "deeper peel"? Possibly. After a thorough consultation/skin analysis, a dermatologist would best advise you. Please feel free to email me with any questions! Love your skin. Read More......
Posted by Mischo Beauty , at 11:45 AM
Labels: at-home skincare regimen, dermatologist, esthetician, exfoliant, exfoliation, Exfoliation 101, peel, skincare regimen
Mischo Beauty Extra: Zoya's Intimate Collection Spring 2011
Disclosure: Products in this post were provided for consideration by the company. For more information, please see my disclosure. Read More......
Posted by Mischo Beauty , Wednesday, February 23, 2011 at 3:31 PM
Labels: manicure, nail lacquer, nail polish, pedicure, zoya, zoya nail polish
Mischo Beauty Challenge Update: "A Healthy, Sexy & Beautiful 2011"
Disclosure: Products in this post were provided for consideration by the company. For more information, please see my disclosure. Read More......
Posted by Mischo Beauty , Tuesday, February 22, 2011 at 2:10 PM
Labels: #HealthySexyBeautiful2011, a healthy sexy and beautiful 2011, American Heart Association, american red cross, dietary supplements, hair skin nails vitamins, hair supplements, solgar, supplements
Ask Mischo Beauty...
"Burned my cheeks exfoliating. Feels like sunburn. Any suggestions?"
I hate to hear that that has happened to you. While I am pro-exfoliation because of it's many benefits, I do believe in the "less is more rule". And so over-exfoliation or too-much exfoliation will definitely irritate the skin and could cause premature aging.
As a licensed esthetician, my recommendation is to make sure you're using the correct exfoliation product for your particular skin type. Physical/mechanical exfoliants (scrubs, beads, etc.) may be too rough for certain skin types - so be careful and follow the manufacturer's directions on correct product usage.
To treat your irritated/inflamed skin, try using products formulated for sensitive skin. Be very gentle with product application and removal. Also, try using a gel mask which will both calm and soothe your skin, along with providing hydration and nourishment.
If the condition persists- please see a dermatologist! I hope this helps. Please stop back by and let us know how you decide to move forward!
If you have beauty questions you'd like answered, please send them to mischobeauty@gmail.com. Read More......
Posted by Mischo Beauty , Monday, February 21, 2011 at 11:32 AM
Labels: ask mischo beauty, exfoliant, exfoliation, facial masks, irritation skin, over-exfoliation, sensitive skin
Mischo Beauty Says Goodbye to Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Fall 2011 Collections
As I've said before, Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week's backstage is the beauty lover's frontstage! And so I hope you've enjoyed my coverage. I can't wait to see what's in store for the Spring 2012 collections coming in September! So, please stay tuned... Read More......
Posted by Mischo Beauty , Saturday, February 19, 2011 at 10:44 AM
Labels: #amexmbfw, #mbfw, #nyfw, backstage beauty, fashion week, mercedes benz fashion week, mercedes-benz fashion week, new york fashion week
Mischo Beauty Covers Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week: CND & Joanna Mastroianni Fall 2011
photo: Robert Mitra Read More......
Posted by Mischo Beauty , Friday, February 18, 2011 at 10:40 AM
Labels: #mbfw, #nyfw, backstage beauty, cnd, creative nail design, fashion week, Joanna Mastroianni, manicure, mercedes benz fashion week, mercedes-benz fashion week, nail polish, new york fashion week
Mischo Beauty Covers Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week: Lancome & L'Wren Scott Fall 2011
photo: Robert Fairer Read More......
Posted by Mischo Beauty , Thursday, February 17, 2011 at 2:30 PM
Labels: #mbfw, #nyfw, backstage beauty, fashion week, L'Wren Scott, Lancome, mascara, mercedes benz fashion week, mercedes-benz fashion week, new york fashion week
Mischo Beauty Covers Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week: T3 & Diane von Furstenberg Fall 2011
photo: vogue.com
Posted by Mischo Beauty , Wednesday, February 16, 2011 at 12:33 PM
Labels: #mbfw, #nyfw, backstage beauty, Diane von Furstenberg, fashion week, Lipstick, MAC, MAC Cosmetics, mercedes benz fashion week, mercedes-benz fashion week, new york fashion week, orlando pita, T3
Mischo Beauty Covers Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week: MAC & Rodarte Fall 2011
Those of you who are extremely busy but still want to learn more makeup application techniques may want to consider online schools offering beauty classes.
photo: style.com Read More......
Posted by Mischo Beauty , Tuesday, February 15, 2011 at 1:57 PM
Labels: #mbfw, #nyfw, backstage beauty, fashion week, Lipstick, MAC, MAC Cosmetics, mercedes benz fashion week, mercedes-benz fashion week, new york fashion week, Rodarte
Mischo Beauty Covers Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week: Priti NYC & Thakoon Fall 2011
photo: whatever eva wants tumblr Read More......
Posted by Mischo Beauty , Monday, February 14, 2011 at 1:31 PM
Labels: #mbfw, #nyfw, 3 Free, backstage beauty, fashion week, mercedes benz fashion week, mercedes-benz fashion week, nail polish, new york fashion week, priti nyc, Thakoon
Mischo Beauty + Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Fall 2011 Collections • February 10 - 17, 2011 • New York
Posted by Mischo Beauty , Friday, February 11, 2011 at 3:45 PM
Labels: #amexmbfw, #mbfw, #nyfw, backstage beauty, fashion week, mercedes benz fashion week, mercedes-benz fashion week, new york fashion week
Are you using hair bonding glue instead of an eyelash adhesive to apply your lashes?
So my question for you today is: Are you using hair bonding glue instead of an eyelash adhesive to apply your lashes?
Posted by Mischo Beauty , at 12:48 PM
Labels: artifical eyelashes, band eyelashes, eyelash adhesive, hair bonding glue, hair weaving glue, individual lashes, lash adhesive, Lashes, Sam Fine, strip eyelashes
Mischo Beauty Review: Hela Spa (Georgetown)
But, it very much is the place to go for your biweekly or monthly skin services. Yes, there's no doubt that your skin's health and overall appearance will be in the best condition. My appointment started with completing the client consultation form and relaxing in the lobby area with fresh hot tea. My service started with my esthetician, Brianne, examining my skin under a magnifying lamp both before and after cleansing. And based on her analysis, she recommended The Liv Ullman facial, which is a deep cleansing treatment followed by a rejuvenating medical-grade glycolic peel.
I wasn't expecting this recommendation and was even hesitant (my skin is easily sensitized, so I didn't know how my skin would react to the peel)- but this recommendation proved to be excellent. And, I appreciated the fact that Brianne performed a thorough skin analysis before recommending any arbitrary facial or the most expensive facial. She also added a collagen mask and vitamin C treatment to the service, which combined with the peel, left me with the freshest glow!
I opted out of extractions (you all know how I feel about them) explaining to Brianne my reasons why and during our conversation she shared great information skin health, post treatment care and the importance of repeat visits. Skin health is important to me and so I appreciated being given this information. I had no redness or irritation at the end of the service (I was shocked), but Brianne had prepared post treatment instructions (specifically for those having received a peel) detailing how to care for my skin following the treatment.
If you have a skin type that requires extra care or are treating a skin condition that really needs special attention -or if you are just concerned about the best care for the overall health of your skin, then Hela is definitely the spa for you.
If you've visited Hela Spa- either the Georgetown or Chevy Chase locations - I would love to know your thoughts!
Disclosure: Products in this post were provided for consideration by the company. For more information, please see my disclosure.
Read More......
Posted by Mischo Beauty , Thursday, February 10, 2011 at 8:31 PM
Labels: Brianne Atkins, chemical exfoliant, esthetician, facial, facials, hela spa, JoElle Lyons, JoElle Skincare, med spa, medical spa, mischo beauty review, peel
Mischo Beauty School: Extractions 101
Mischo Beauty Loves Twirl by Kate Spade New York
Disclosure: Products in this post were provided for consideration by the company. For more information, please see my disclosure. Read More......
Posted by Mischo Beauty , Wednesday, February 9, 2011 at 2:22 PM
Labels: fragrance, gift for valentine's day, kate spade, perfume, Twirl by Kate Spade New York
Mischo Beauty Challenge Update: "A Healthy, Sexy & Beautiful 2011"
I was impressed by the fact that there's no human contact with the water until the bottle is opened for drinking - and because of it's "exceptional purity and optimal mineral balance", Dior is now formulating products using the water. But, when the bottles arrived for my review, I felt bad. Yes, I think the water is great- and yes, I do recycle. But, I'm really doing my best to use my water bottle and drink filtered water. So, the choice is up to you.
On another note , February is American Heart Month and sadly, 1 in 4 women die of heart disease. Please read this and send it to a friend!
Disclosure: Products in this post were provided for consideration by the company. For more information, please see my disclosure. Read More......
Posted by Mischo Beauty , at 11:23 AM
Labels: #HealthySexyBeautiful2011, a healthy sexy and beautiful 2011, American Heart Association, american heart month, bottled water, Icelandic Glacial water
Ask Mischo Beauty...
"First, LOVE your blog- secondly, I need your help! I wear my hair straight during the winter (curly during the summer), because it's just easier to care for. With wearing my hair straight, I both blow dry and flat iron so I'm in need of a serious heat protectant! Any suggestions?"
Thank you- and yes, absolutely! I'm glad you've realized that you do NEED a heat protectant, because by the time summer arrives and you begin wearing your hair curly again, your hair will show signs of damage (depending on how often you heat style your hair)! My advice is that you heat style no more than once, maybe twice a week - if possible.
Now, you didn't share your hair type or texture, so my recommendation will include heat protectants that work for a variety of hair types. Please keep in mind that you will need to do research on each to determine which will work best for you. So here are my recommendations:
- Aveda Brillant Damage Control
- Mizani ThermaStrength Strengthening Style Serum
- Tresemme Thermal Creations Heat Tamer Spray
- Silk Elements MegaSilk Heat Protection Spray
- Sebastian Trilliant
- Biolage Thermal-Activating Spray
- John Frieda Frizz-Ease Thermal Protection Hair Serum
- Kerastase Nectar Thermique
- Biosilk Silk Therapy
- Paul Mitchell Seal and Shine
And yes, there are many more, but I've listed those I've used and liked - or those I've received great feedback on... oh, and I'm not brand loyal.
I hope this helps. Please stop back by and let us know how you decide to move forward!
If you have beauty questions you'd like answered, please send them to mischobeauty@gmail.com. Read More......
Posted by Mischo Beauty , Tuesday, February 8, 2011 at 6:03 PM
Labels: ask mischo beauty, aveda, biolage, biosilk, heat protectant, heat styling, john frieda, kerastase, mizani, paul mitchell, prevent damaged hair, Sebastian, silk elements, tresemme
Super Sweetback's Soft and Long Revenge
I spent a fair amount of the application time wondering which ingredients led to the odd, slick texture with the consistency of jello-y pudding, but I appreciated the outcome. Once air-dried, my usually spirally coils hung in vibrantly buoyant waves. Shine is not one of the benefits imparted by Super Sweetback, so you will have to figure that one out for yourself with a good finishing product. All said, I am looking forward to guaging the long-term results of use, though learning to tolerate the overly sugary scent will be quite a challenge.
Have you given this conditioning treatment a try? What did you think? -Zee
Disclosure: Products in this post were provided for consideration by the company. For more information, please see my disclosure. Read More......
Posted by Mischo Beauty , Saturday, February 5, 2011 at 9:55 AM
Labels: beauty tips, conditioning treatment, curly girls, Curly Hair, deep conditioner, Miss Jessie's, Miss Jessie's Super Sweetback Treatment, zee, zee connor
Do you mix and match skincare brands?
So my question for you today is: Do you mix and match skincare brands? Read More......
Posted by Mischo Beauty , Friday, February 4, 2011 at 8:22 PM
Labels: at-home skincare regimen, mischo beauty wants to know, skincare regimen
Mischo Beauty Review: Shellac Manicure at Bliss Spa at W Hotel
Shellac Manicure in Tropix - Day #1
Shellac Manicure in Tropix - Day #7
Shellac Manicure in Tropix - Day #14
Disclosure: Products in this post were provided for consideration by the company. For more information, please see my disclosure.
Posted by Mischo Beauty , at 8:01 PM
Labels: beauty tips, Bliss spa, CND Shellac Manicure, day spa, mischo beauty review, Shellac Manicure, spa treatments, W Hotel
Mischo Beauty School: Understanding Your Hair Type (A Lesson from Oprah's Hairstylist)
"Stop reading fashion magazines that tell you there's just one hair type if you're African-American, Asian, or whatever. Forget about race- there's no such thing as "black" hair or "Asian" hair or even "Caucasian" hair. And, please, please, please, let's retire forever those antiquated stereotypes about "good" hair versus "bad" hair. The fact is, everyone has "good" hair - you just have to know how to take care of your hair type."
And so he goes on to break hair type down into the following categories (there are subtypes within each category, such as A, B, C, etc.):
Type 1: Straight Hair: Hair holds no curl or wave, but has lots of shine.
Type 2: Wavy Hair: Hair tends to be coarse, with a definite "S" shape pattern.
Type 3: Curly Hair: Hair is very fine in texture; definite loopy "S" pattern.
Type 4: Kinky Hair: Hair is very fragile; very tightly coiled/curled.
Any questions? What's your hair type? Love your hair. Read More......
Posted by Mischo Beauty , Thursday, February 3, 2011 at 1:13 PM
Labels: african american hair, andre talks hair, andre walker, black hair, celebrity hairstylist, Hair Texture, hair type, hairstylist, Mischo Beauty School, Oprah, oprah winfrey
Mischo Beauty Pick: Sulwhasoo Skincare
It was announced last summer that Sulwhasoo had opened a boutique on the beauty level at Bergdorf Goodman. Now if you haven't been to the beauty level of Bergdorf's- you are missing out! This particular collection of products peaked my curiosity when I learned that they were considered "medicinal herbal skincare" because they're formulated with a blend of specially selected medicinal herbs meant to promote healthy skin from within. They're also one of the oldest and best selling skincare brands in Korea.
So based on that information and the words "healthy skin" (the goal of a successful skincare regimen should always be healthy skin that glows) I knew I had to try the line! And because I liked the products I've tried so much, I called Bergdorf's to learn more. I was told that Sulwhasoo offers complimentary 1 hour facials (no extractions), custom to individual skin types/conditions. I love it and can't wait to book my appointment!
Disclosure: Products in this post were provided for consideration by the company. For more information, please see my disclosure. Read More......
Posted by Mischo Beauty , Wednesday, February 2, 2011 at 2:03 PM
Labels: at-home skincare regimen, Bergdorf Goodman, facial, glowing skin, healthy skin, korean skincare brand, skin condition, skin type, skincare regimen, Sulwhasoo
Mischo Beauty Challenge Update: "A Healthy, Sexy & Beautiful 2011"
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.*
Posted by Mischo Beauty , Tuesday, February 1, 2011 at 11:33 AM
Labels: #HealthySexyBeautiful2011, a healthy sexy and beautiful 2011, dietary supplements, wellness