Showing posts with label Sephora. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Sephora. Show all posts

Mischo Beauty: My Sephora Visit...



I was recently gifted with a few Sephora gift cards, and you all know how much I HEART Sephora at this point, right? Well I have to tell you that a recent visit had me running for the store's doors! You see, I was in search of this concealer and this concealer, both by Make Up For Ever. And I can't begin to tell you how disgusting the display testers were (not these in particular)- let's just say major sanitation & disinfection issues! I even attempted to sample items over at the Yves Saint Laurent display, with no luck.

Believe me, I know it's probably hard to control testers left out to be freely sampled by the public, but the looks of those testers left me not wanting to step foot in the store again....

Ok, enough venting for today! But I do want to know your thoughts on testers left out for the general public. Please share!

Read More......
 

Mischo Beauty Loves Stella McCartney's StellaNude Linen Scented Mist



As most of you already know, I'm new to the Stella McCartney fragrance range- and a few months ago I fell in love with the Stella Eau de Parfum Roll-On while waiting in line to check out at Sephora. Well, I was recently given the opportunity to try the new Linen Scented Mist, which is part of the StellaNude collection, and it was instant love!

It contains some of the same top notes I loved so much in the roll-on, such as rose, peony, and amber- but this definitely falls into the " delicate, soft, sensual" category. It's a "linen mist" so it's very light- perfect for a lingerie drawer, closet or wherever you see fit to use it.

Read More......
 

"Summer Hairstyles" Part Two & Giveaway on SheBreathes!



You're all invited to visit SheBreathes.com and check out the second part of my "Summer Hairstyles" post! And to thank you all for your continued support, there's a giveaway- a $75 Sephora Gift Card! Please get entered to win and be sure to tell everyone you know! Enjoy.

Read More......
 

Mischo Beauty: Stella Eau de Parfum Roll-On



So my friend and I went on an excursion to Sephora the other day (thanks Nobie!), and as much as I'm in denial about the onset of fall next month, I was actually there to check out the fall makeup collections. Well temptation seemed to settle in at checkout- you see that's where you'll find bins of deluxe samples of just about everything you could possibly want.

I couldn't resist the Stella Eau de Parfum Roll-On. The scent took my breath away- excuse me, but not only mine, but my friend fell in love with it too! The fragrance's top notes are rose, peony flower, mandarin, rose absolute and amber. I think it's the perfect blend of sweet and sexy- and yes, we both had to have it!

So tell me, what fragrance are you in love with at the moment?

Read More......
 

Mischo Beauty Pick: Tarte Cosmetics' Cheek Stain



If you haven't tried the Cheek Stains by Tarte Cosmetics yet, please know that you're missing out! I've been wearing "A Perfect Whirled" and "Tipsy" and the color pay-off is both subtle and gorgeous. And yes, I'm impressed!



The cheeks stains are a water-based gel tint and the idea is that they will give you a "natural flushed" look, like "someone just pinched your cheeks". The formula is both alcohol and oil-free, so they should work for all skin types. They also contain an ingredient called "T5 Super Fruit Complex" which is a blend of "superfruits " known to deliver "refinining, restorative and anti-aging benefits".



You should also know that the cheek stains are free of parabens, sulfates, synthetic fragrances, petro-chemicals and phthalates. Tarte's founder, Maureen Kelly, actually calls her beauty brand "health couture" because she says "it's a chic makeup line that's good for you too".



I almost forgot to mention that "Tipsy" (pictured on the right above) is a sheer coral-pink with a hint of white shimmer and an apricot scent (smells so good!). "A Perfect Whirled" is a coral-pink swirled together with an illuminating seashell-pink and it's actually my favorite of the two! There are eight other shades and yes, there's one for every skin tone. You may view them here.

Read More......
 

Mischo Beauty Extra: Sephora by OPI's "I'm With Brad"





I completely fell in LOVE with this week's nail polish pick! It's the little things in life that bring the most joy! When I walked into Sephora my intention was only to quickly pick up Turkish Delight by NARS and Stila's Kajal Eye Liner and be on my way. I didn't want to get caught up in the Georgetown crowds- my intention was to run two errands and head home to relax after having such a wonderful acupuncture appointment earlier that morning. Well the Sephora by OPI display stopped me dead in my tracks! The complete collection includes 54 shades that retail for $9 and are exclusive to Sephora.

It was love at first site with "I'm With Brad", which is described as a "shimmering wine over dark coffee". You're not going to believe this (know I couldn't) but I actually drove to a Sephora in Maryland because the Georgetown Sephora was completely sold out of it! The things I do for my blog....(smile). Not only was this love at first site- but seriously, it was a dream come true! ONE coat was all I needed to achieve the color in the bottle! The finish isn't as neat this week- I polished my nails on Sunday after making a donation at the American Red Cross, so my energy level was close to nothing- but at least you'll get an idea of the "look & feel". Also, now that dark colors are the trend for fall, they look best on short manicured nails and always use a base coat to keep the polish from staining your nails.

What do you think?

SEPHORA by OPI Nail Colour I'm With Brad
NARS Lip Gloss Turkish Delight
Stila Kajal Eye Liner Onyx

Read More......
 

Mischo Beauty Product Review: Dior DiorShow Mascara



This mascara has been a favorite for many for a while now and I can't believe I'm just getting around to reviewing it! I must admit that the print ads are what drew me in initially. Having worked in advertising, I can fully appreciate a well executed ad campaign. Excellent photography, a beautiful model, flawless makeup and perfect retouching are what sold me!

After picking it up from Sephora and using it for a few weeks I was completely convinced! Though the tube itself is somewhat long, I do love the sleek package design. My favorite part about the mascara is the brush. The bristles are thick, full and lush. The application is very smooth, catching every lash, and believe it or not- one coat is enough. But for going out, I usually apply three coats on each side for extra length, volume and that "faux" lash look.

I will tell you that this is on the higher end of mascaras, it is a little more expensive, but I feel it's worth it if you have the budget for it!

What's your favorite mascara?

Read More......
 

Mischo Beauty + Tyra's Best of Beauty


I was just reading Beauty 365’s “Win It: Tyra's Best of Beauty” post and I had to jump on the bandwagon with this one! If there was ever a contest to enter- it’s this one! Tyra’s giving away products from Clarisonic, NARS, Bliss, Kerastase, M.A.C, Sephora, Benefit, Dior, Prescriptives- and the list goes on and on! Click here to enter!

(photos courtesy of Tyra Show/Warner Bros.)

Read More......
 

Mischo Beauty + Mercedes Benz Fashion Week (Part 3)



As I mentioned earlier, I spent this past Sunday in New York for Mercedes Benz Fashion Week and what a whirlwind of a day I had! I left DC on the 6:20am train and arrived into NYC at 9:45am. I was so excited the night before that I barely slept! Anyway, once I arrived into Penn Station I then walked over to Bryant Park to secure my press credential. I can't begin to tell you about all the beautiful people in the tents! Beautiful hair, makeup, bags, shoes, clothes- amazing... I must admit that I sat brieftly and had an espresso just so I could people watch! From there I walked to 5th Avenue and couldnt' resist stopping in Sephora, Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa and Salon, and then the lengendary Henri Bendel where I almost lost my mind in the beauty department! If you've never been- you must go!

From there I hurried back to Bryant Park, this time in a cab, to meet fellow beauty bloggers Lianne of The Makeup Girl and Julia of All About The Pretty. Wonderful women with great blogs! Check them out!

Later that evening, as you've seen in previous posts, I attended the Angel Sanchez and Tuleh shows. What an experience! The energy was unbelieveable!! Hair and makeup- up close and in person! I'm working on getting backstage access for the Spring '09 shows- so stay tuned! Crawl before you walk... the greater the challenge, the greater the reward.

After the shows I headed back to Penn Station to catch my 11:05pm train back to DC. Can't begin to tell you how tired I was- but it was a beautiful day well spent at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week!

Read More......
 

Mischo Beauty School: Hair Relaxers & Thinning/Breakage 101



I’ve received many questions on the use of hair relaxers resulting in thinning hair and hair breakage, so I’ve decided to address the issue. Damage from relaxers may result from a number of reasons. At any rate, the problem could be due to one of the following:

1. The "strength" of the relaxer might be stronger than that needed for your particular hair texture. Relaxers come in "mild, regular or super" strengths.

2. Your stylist may not be applying the relaxer properly. It should ONLY be applied to the NEW hair growth, every 6-8 weeks. No overlapping onto previously relaxed hair!

3. Thermal styling may be an issue. Are you frequently using a curling iron, flat iron or blow-dryer? If so, that will definitely contribute to thinning/breakage.

4. Do you color your hair? If you use permanent haircolor, the application should be at least two weeks after relaxing or you will experience thinning/breakage. You should only be using a mild relaxer.

If you're thinning near the scalp, then it's probably from improper application or overlapping of the relaxer onto the previously relaxed hair. If you're thinning along the length of the hair, then it's probably due to excessive heat from a curling/flat iron, blow-drying or constant chemical overprocessing.

Hopefully your stylist will identify the problem and offer you a new haircare regimen. If you feel that your problem is different from those listed above, I'd recommend you visit a Dermatologist.


Love your hair.

Please feel free to e-mail me with any questions!

Read More......
 

Waxing Models Wanted: 12/15/07




I'm nearing the end of my program, but practice makes perfect- hence the repeat posts!

I'm completing a waxing class and need models for a review by my instructor. The service is FREE. I'll need to demonstrate the following:

Eyebrows
Upper Lip
Arms
Underarms
Stomach
Bikini
Legs

If you need any waxing done, please let me know and I'll follow-up with the time and directions.

Read More......
 

Mischo Beauty School: Hair Relaxers 101



Let’s understand the difference between “lye” and “no-lye” hair relaxers. Relaxers break certain chemical bonds in the hair so that they can’t reform. This simply means that hair that was once curly, is now permanently straightened. Certain relaxers use “lye” to break these bonds. Lye is a very strong chemical base that can burn your skin and damage your hair if not used correctly. With "no lye" relaxers, another chemical is used in the place of lye and is considered a medium strength base. Research has shown that the use of "no lye" relaxers results in less scalp irritation, but the same safety rules apply. Both types of relaxers can burn the scalp if used incorrectly. It’s wrong to assume that compared to “lye” relaxers, "no lye" relaxers take the worry out of straightening your hair. Both types of relaxers contain caustic chemicals.

If you choose to apply your own relaxer, please ask for help. You aren’t able to see and reach the top and back of your hair and this could lead to an improper application of the relaxer. Also, making sure that the relaxer is thoroughly rinsed can be a challenge. Relaxers should be used based on manufacturer’s instructions, left on no longer than the prescribed time, carefully washed out with neutralizing shampoo, and followed up with regular conditioning. If you’re in doubt, please follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Love your hair.

Please feel free to e-mail me with any questions!

Read More......
 

Waxing Models Wanted: 11/17/07


I'm completing a waxing class and need models for a review by my instructor. The service is FREE. I'll need to demonstrate the following:

Eyebrows
Upper Lip
Arms
Underarms
Stomach
Bikini
Legs

If you need any waxing done, please let me know and I'll follow-up with the time and directions. Thanks!

Fresh Pink Jasmine Bath & Shower Cream 10 oz
Fresh Pink Jasmine Body Cream 6.8 oz
Fresh Sugar Blossom Hand Cream 3.4 oz
Fresh Rice Face Cream 30 ml

Read More......
 

Mischo Beauty Side Note: I Love My Lips!


Sexy is officially back! I know I’m late, but better late than never! Anyway, here’s what I’m wearing (thanks to two gift certificates to the posh new Bloomingdales in Chevy Chase):

NARS Lipstick Promiscuous
NARS Lip Gloss Orgasm

Read More......
 

Mischo Beauty School: Bikini Waxing 101


This second lesson is inspired by the many questions I’ve received from the models who’ve volunteered to be waxed for my waxing class. The majority of questions involve the bikini wax. Waxing, a form of epilation, removes hair by pulling it out of the hair follicle. Because hair is removed from the hair follicle, it takes longer to grow back- generally 4-6 weeks. Below I’ve listed tips on how to prepare for waxing and what to expect:

  • Your hair should be at least a 1/4 to 1/2 inch long. If longer, it may need to be trimmed by your esthetician.
  • Plan to wax after your period. Your body will be less sensitive.
  • Lightly exfoliate a few days before waxing to remove dead skin and make hair easier to adhere to the wax.
  • A brazilian bikini wax involves the removal of all hair, except for a “landing strip” in the front. You may choose to have everything removed.
  • Your esthetician will tweeze stray hairs.
  • It may take 24 hours for any redness or soreness to disappear. During that time, avoid the sun, exfoliation, cream irritants and excessive heat.
  • Try to avoid caffeine, alcohol and aspirin before waxing as these heighten sensitivity.
  • If the wax pot has old wax on it and a spatula sitting in the wax- RUN! There may be sanitation issues.
  • If your esthetician “double-dips” the spatula in the wax pot each time wax is applied to the area to be waxed- RUN! There are definitely sanitation issues.
  • Do not wax if you use Accutane, Retin-A, are sunburned, using other topical AHA's, or medications that will make your skin reactive to waxing.
  • Do not wax if you have diabetes. You are more vulnerable to infection.
  • You must wax consistently every 4 - 6 weeks for the first few times. The hair will start to grow on the same hair cycle. Don’t shave between waxing.
  • Resume exfoliation about 3 days after waxing to ensure the removal of dead skin cells, which, if not removed, could cause the hair to grow inward resulting in ingrown hairs.
If you're interested in being a model please let me know and I will schedule your appointment immediately!

Read More......
 

Mischo Beauty Pick

Read More......
 

Beautiful Hair Needs An Expert.



Want sexy, healthy, beautiful summer hair? Well I have good news: no blow-dryer or flat iron required! Avoid heat and damage by setting you hair with rollers or flexirods and wearing your hair in a curly style. Get hair back to it's health this summer with the following products:
Bumble and bumble Gentle Shampoo: Damaged, dry, or chemically treated hair
Bumble and bumble Sunday Shampoo: Clarifier
Bumble and bumble Thickening Shampoo: Fine, limp hair
($33, fredsegalbeauty.com)

Phytokarite Ultra Nourishing Mask: Ultra Dry Hair
Okara Restructuring Mask
Hair Mask with Shea Butter
($32, sephora.com)

J.F. Lazartigue's Straightening Gel
Ojon Leave-In Glossing Cream
Kiehls Heat-Protective Silk Straightening Cream

Read More......