Ask Mischo Beauty...



This week's question comes from Monica, who asked the following:

"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.

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Mischo Beautyliciousness...



And since we're on the subject of haircolor today, I had to let you all know that I'm loving Beyonce's newest shade of blonde, though I wish she'd lighten her brows just one shade (I can't help it, I'm a licensed cosmetologist). But have you all seen Gwen Stefani's new commercial for L'Oreal Paris Superior Preference Hair Color? O-M-G! Love it.

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Do you consider yourself "natural" if you've stopped using hair relaxers, but still use haircolor?



I really can't believe I'm even entertaining this foolishness, but I continue to see this contradiction on so many blogs. It's the claim to be "natural" because hair relaxers aren't used, but haircolor is? Yes, I have a degree in Chemistry, and yes, I'm a licensed cosmetologist - but those qualifications aren't required to know that haircolor IS a chemical! And if you're coloring your hair, you aren't "natural".

So my question for you today is: Do you consider yourself "natural" if you've stopped using hair relaxers, but still use haircolor?

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Mischo Beauty Review: Xtreme Lashes by Rachel Grante



The gorgeous woman in the photo above is hairstylist, makeup artist and eyelash stylist, Rachel Grante. She is the one responsible for my latest application of Xtreme Lashes. It's been a little over a year since I last had lash extensions, so yes, I was definitely overdue! And so the procedure with Rachel began with a comprehensive questionnaire, which included questions regarding one's lifestyle, skincare regimen, desired results and most importantly, questions to ensure there are no contraindications.

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.

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Mischo Beauty School: Peels 101



This post is in response to a few questions I've received from readers wanting to know where- or how, a peel would fit in with regards to exfoliation, and if a peel is too harsh on the skin, if you exfoliate regularly.

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.

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Mischo Beauty Extra: Zoya's Intimate Collection Spring 2011



Remember how much I loved Zoya's "Robyn" last summer? Well, I'm on the hunt for what will be my "can't live without" nail shade for spring. I just received Zoya's Intimate Collection (Dannii, Caitlin, Marley, Dove, Gemma & Jules) and the colors are so pretty! Right now I'm in love with "Marley", "Dove" and "Caitlin". Your picks?

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 Challenge Update: "A Healthy, Sexy & Beautiful 2011"



I'm happy to be back to my regular posting schedule (Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week is over!) and so I'm presenting another option to you when it comes to choosing a "hair, skin & nails" supplement. I'm asked all the time which is the best, and it really depends on so many factors. I thought you should know about Solgar's 100% vegetarian friendly Skin, Nails & Hair supplement. On another note, many of you know that I'm a Red Cross blood donor and I want to encourage you to become one as well. Check out the "Top 10 Reasons To Give Blood" and send it on to a friend!

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

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Ask Mischo Beauty...



This week's question comes from a dear Spelmanite, who asked the following:

"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.

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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...

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Mischo Beauty Covers Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week: CND & Joanna Mastroianni Fall 2011



The Spectator manicure, created by CND's Angi Wingle, was the star of the show at Joanna Mastroianni. Using CND's Blackjack as a base, moons were created on each nail using Brilliant White, bordered with Silver Chrome. The nails completed the 60's influenced beauty look of sky-high French twists and fiery orange lips in a runway tribute to photographer Lillian Bassman. To see more backstage beauty and full looks from the show please visit wwd.com.

photo: Robert Mitra

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Mischo Beauty Covers Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week: Lancome & L'Wren Scott Fall 2011



I'm sure we can all agree that Lancome is probably best known for their amazing mascara primer and collection of mascaras - which are the answer to just about every lash need. So it was no surprise to learn that the focus of the makeup look, for L'Wren Scott, was the eyes. A "dangerous eye" was created using a combination of the soon to be released Gris Fatale eyeshadow palette, Le Crayon Khol in Black Ebony and Hypnose Drama Mascara in Excessive Black. To see more backstage beauty and full looks from the show, please visit nytimes.com.

photo: Robert Fairer

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Mischo Beauty Covers Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week: T3 & Diane von Furstenberg Fall 2011



I briefly discussed how much I liked T3 tools here about a week or so ago and was pleased to learn that celebrity hairstylist Orlando Pita used a combination of T3's blow dryers, flat irons and liquid products- "Plump" for volume, "Elevate" for texture and "Control" for hold (all part of the Orlando Pita Liquids collection for T3) to create the textured, low ponytail worn on the runway. To see more backstage beauty and full looks from the show please visit vogue.com.

photo: vogue.com

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Mischo Beauty Covers Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week: MAC & Rodarte Fall 2011



The lippie at Rodarte has my name written all over it! It really is about how the look translates off the runway (right!?!), and this lip color will perfectly compliment my red hair and freckles. Using MAC's "Photo" lipstick, inspiration to create the look was drawn from the movie "Days of Heaven", as well as the various shades of brown, cream, taupe and beige used for the collection. To see more backstage beauty and full looks from the show please visit style.com.

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

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Mischo Beauty Covers Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week: Priti NYC & Thakoon Fall 2011



The nails at Thakoon were soft and oh so pretty! My first thought - SPRING, definitely not fall. But, there are no rules when it comes to beauty- so fall it is! The color is a custom blend of Priti's "Crown of Thorns" and "Moonstone Cactus". To see more backstage beauty and full looks from the show please visit vogue.com.

photo: whatever eva wants tumblr

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Mischo Beauty + Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Fall 2011 Collections • February 10 - 17, 2011 • New York



As I've said many times before, the backstage of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week is the beauty lover's frontstage. So with that said, I'll be backstage reporting on fall trends in beauty (hair, skin, makeup & nails) as they relate to the collections presented - so please stay tuned!!!

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Are you using hair bonding glue instead of an eyelash adhesive to apply your lashes?



Earlier this week I followed a Twitter conversation between celebrity makeup artist Sam Fine and a few of his followers who swore by using hair bonding glue (yes, I'm talking about hair weaving glue!) over eyelash adhesive to apply lashes. And honestly, it wasn't the first I'd heard of this. I took a makeup class last summer and a few students also swore by hair bonding glue. Now, since when was hair bonding glue approved to use on the eyes??? Oh, and just in care you're wondering, Sam did stand firm on using a proper eyelash adhesive - his favorite being DUO.

So my question for you today is: Are you using hair bonding glue instead of an eyelash adhesive to apply your lashes?

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Mischo Beauty Review: Hela Spa (Georgetown)



Without actually realizing it, I've been on a quest to find the best facial in DC. Over the past two months I've had two facials that I've loved, and recently added a third to the list. I recently visited Hela Spa, a medical spa in Georgetown, for a tour and facial. Unlike the other spas I've visited, and although very chic, Hela Spa has a clinical feel to it. This is definitely where you'd choose to come for a very thorough analysis of your skin and a series of treatments. It's not set-up for lounging, and not a place to bring a group of friends for a spa day.

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.

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Mischo Beauty School: Extractions 101



I've reviewed a number of facials over the past few months at various spas in DC, and a few of you have asked about the extraction process- specifically wanting to know what it involved and if the process was painful.

Well, the extraction portion of a facial involves the manual removal of build-up (dirt, oil, product, etc.) and/or blackheads. And, there are three ways in which this can be done. Your esthetician may wrap both index fingers with cotton and use them, use two cotton swabs or use a comedone extractor (which is a metal tool- please beware!)

During a facial, your esthetician should cleanse, tone, exfoliate and treat your skin with steam in order to soften pores and prepare for extractions. Next, pressure is applied around the skin surrounding the hair follicle (pore) in order to extract the impaction. You will probably feel discomfort, but you shouldn't feel pain. And, as long as you're seeing an experienced esthetician, you should have no worries! Please remember- extractions are NOT a DIY procedure!

Any questions? Love your skin.

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Mischo Beauty Loves Twirl by Kate Spade New York



I used to love all things Kate Spade back in the day (it was always my first stop in Georgetown!), but not so much anymore. Not sure if the brand has changed, or maybe it's just that my style has evolved. Whatever the case - what I do still love are the Kate Spade fragrances, and Twirl is not to be missed. It's best described (in my opinion) as soft, pretty and floral with a hint of citrus. Yes, I love it- and I think you will too!

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 Challenge Update: "A Healthy, Sexy & Beautiful 2011"



If you follow me on Twitter, then you know my first tweet of the day- everyday- is "10,000 step goal today + 96 oz H20 #HealthySexyBeautiful2011" - because inner beauty determines outer beauty, right? Yes, I stress the importance of daily water intake. So, when I was asked to try Icelandic Glacial water, I naturally welcomed the opportunity!

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.

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Ask Mischo Beauty...



This week's question comes from Rachel, who asked the following:

"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.

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Super Sweetback's Soft and Long Revenge



Could there be such a thing as a deep conditioner that softens and elongates every curly strand of your hair? The Miss Jessies's brand says yes, it is so, with their Super Sweetback Treatment. With a bubblegum/candy scent that will either carry you on a happy cloud to hair heaven or drive you diabetically batty with every whiff, this concoction definitely leaves hair soft and supple. I chose to apply the conditioner before entering the shower to let the steam penetrate my hair for 15 minutes.

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.

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Do you mix and match skincare brands?



I've been discussing this pretty much all week on Twitter and so if you follow me then you know that I don't recommend it. Maybe I'm biased (I am a licensed esthetician), but the fact of the matter is that products within a skincare line are really formulated to work with one another. Now, I do know that not every product within a line will work for you- and if that's the case, I do feel it's fine to substitute in another brand. But, I do stand firm on using a full regimen from the same brand.

So my question for you today is: Do you mix and match skincare brands?

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Mischo Beauty Review: Shellac Manicure at Bliss Spa at W Hotel



Most of you know that I visited Bliss Spa at the W Hotel for the first time this past summer, so I won't go into details about the spa because I've mentioned it here. But, I was recently invited back for a tour and to experience their new Shellac Manicure service. Now I've had the Shellac manicure once before, (you all know my thoughts!), but the results from this second time around were different.


Shellac Manicure in Tropix - Day #1


Shellac Manicure in Tropix - Day #7


Shellac Manicure in Tropix - Day #14

I clearly need a new application, as you can see the growth of my nail beds after two weeks. But, there was no peeling, lifting or chipping. And, my nails are STILL glossy! I'm impressed. Have you tried the Shellac Manicure yet?

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: Understanding Your Hair Type (A Lesson from Oprah's Hairstylist)



It makes me cringe when I hear that hair is still being defined by race, I mean it is 2011, right? Well this week's "Ask Mischo Beauty..." prompted my sharing with you, again, the term "hair type" which was originated by Oprah's hairstylist, Andre Walker. In his book "Andre Talks Hair!", he states the following:

"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.

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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.

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Mischo Beauty Challenge Update: "A Healthy, Sexy & Beautiful 2011"



This is my weekly check-in, and I have a few goodies I'd like to share. First, the green powder pictured above is spirulina, and a friend suggested that I add it to my green smoothies. I haven't yet though, because it's been too cold for smoothies this week! Also, I had an opportunity to try EBOOST - and while I love the concept, I'm not a fan of the taste. I've also tried Sparking ICE and loved the Black Raspberry flavor! It's free of caffeine and calories, but does contain Splenda. And lastly, check out WebMD's "Taking 10,000 Steps a Day May Lower Diabetes Risk"... have you purchased a pedometer yet?

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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