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 Review: The Boutique Spa at The Ritz-Carlton

As much as I love beauty, and love spending time in Georgetown, I can't say that I have a favorite beauty salon or spa in the Georgetown neighborhood. But, that has now changed due to my visit and facial at The Boutique Spa at The Ritz-Carlton.

Located on the ground floor of the hotel, the spa offers facials, body treatments and massages and features four treatment rooms, a steam room and sauna, a relaxation room and skincare by Eminence Organic. The spa is intimate and personal and makes for easy access for the hotel's guests. And, the hotel itself is just steps away from the shopping Georgetown is known for.

My visit started with a tour of the spa followed by an opportunity to relax and unwind in the steam room before the start of my facial. Following my steam treatment and unwinding in the relaxation room, my esthetician Poy, escorted me into the treatment room for the Tailored Organic Facial. I was pleased to see the Tailored Organic Facial on the menu because this facial is perfect for those who've never had a facial and aren't sure of their skin type or skin needs. It should allow (in my opinion) the esthetician to determine the guest's skin type, better tailor the treatments used during a facial and make sound product recommendations for at-home skincare.

At the start of my facial, I was asked if I was experiencing any issues with my skin and told that the Eminence Organic skincare line, which is formulated with nourishing vitamins and minerals, would be used for my facial. I told Poy that my skin felt dry and dehydrated and mentioned that I would pass on extractions. In place of performing extractions, I enjoyed a targeted eye treatment.

My facial consisted of a deep cleansing treatment which included use of an exfoliant mixed with a cleanser and the use of a Clarisonic skincare brush (which you all know I'm a huge fan of!), along with a steam treatment. I appreciated the fact that Poy suggested not exfoliating for 5 days after the facial. We all know over-exfoliation may wreak havoc on the skin, so less is more! The next steps included the eye treatment, mask treatment, massage (face, neck, decollete, arms & hands) and the application of a serum and moisturizer. I can't begin to tell you how much I loved Poy's touch and my skin felt and looked great days following the facial.

I do have three wishes for my next visit (as I've said many times before, I'm picky!)- yes, I can't wait to go back - and they're as follows. I would prefer the use of a magnifying lamp to ensure that my skin is properly both seen and felt at the time of my visit - leading to further customization of my treatments. Completion of a client consultation form is a must because I want to make sure that there are no issues with contraindications, communication and expectations. And lastly, and I'm probably in the minority here, but I love product recommendations from my spa therapist (if needed). I consider facials an investment in me (yes, I'm worth it) and so I'm open to learning and possibly using new products which might continue to maintain or even improve my skin's health.

I can't wait to return and the next time it'll be for a Girls' Spa Day, because there's no way this spa should be kept a secret!

Have you visited The Boutique Spa at The Ritz-Carlton?

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 tip after receiving salon/spa services?

If you don't, then please tell us why? And if you do, then how much? Do you tip when the person performing your service is the owner of the business? Also, do you leave your tips at the front desk with reception, or do you give your tip directly to the person who performed the service? Would love to know your thoughts in the comments section below!

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Mischo Beauty Review: The Spa at The Sports Club/LA

As you all know, because I've stated it here before, I'm not a huge fan of body scrub/body polish treatments - at spas that is (just a personal preference). But, I was offered the opportunity to visit The Spa at The Sports Club/LA and experience their "New Year, New You Body Scrub and Wrap" treatment (currently available until the end of March). As much as I love to spa, and after reading the treatment description:

- Body treatment designed to purify, nourish and relax
- Full-body exfoliation stimulates your skin, and then mask hydrates
- Wrapped to allow further infusion, while receiving a relaxing scalp massage

There was no way I could pass on this opportunity! Located next to The Ritz-Carlton, allowing for direct access from inside the hotel, The Spa offers a variety of facials, waxing, massages and body treatments. I'd best describe the atmosphere as "intimate" and "cozy". It features nine treatment rooms, a relaxation area and use of The Sports Club/LA's locker room, showers and steam rooms.

My treatment started with a full body exfoliation using the Epicuren Discovery skincare range. Following the exfoliation portion of the treatment, my spa therapist Alexi, escorted me to the showers for a thorough rinse of the exfoliant, before the application of the hydrating mask. Once the mask (which is meant to infuse vitamins, restore moisture and improve skin texture and tone) was applied, my body was then wrapped and I was allowed to further relax while the mask's nourishing ingredients went to work!

My skin felt amazing after the body wrap was removed! Yes, the body scrub portion of the treatment was so worth it! And my best advice regarding this treatment? Well, make no plans following it. Actually, plan to spend additional time in the spa's relaxation area so as not to disturb your state of relaxation. Oh, and before leaving, be sure to check out the Epicuren Discovery skincare range- yes, my skin really felt that great!

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 Review: The Spa at Mandarin Oriental

I started the "Because You're Worth It" posts about 3 years ago shortly after starting this blog because I felt, well quite simply, that readers needed to be encouraged to go out and pamper themselves. And, it was then that I first mentioned The Spa at Mandarin Oriental (Washington, DC).

Well earlier this week I headed over to The Spa for a tour of the facilities and most importantly - an afternoon of pampering! As soon as I arrived, I was greeted with slippers, a warm towel for my hands and a cup of calming tea. At that point I knew this was going to be an experience like no other. I'm so glad that I arrived early because I was able to take full advantage of the "Heat and Water Oasis" (which you can use before or after a treatment), which included use of the Amethyst Steam Room, the Experience Shower, Ice Fountain and Vitality Pool. It was THE perfect way to unwind and relax before my treatment.

My Time Reversal facial treatment started with a thorough consultation to ensure there were no contraindications (this is a MUST--- always! remember this post?), followed by a thorough cleansing, toning and skin analysis. After the skin analysis, the treatment was customized to meet my individual needs and included an exfoliation, a cold stone massage, hand massage, collagen mask and foot massage. The treatment ended with the application of a serum, eye cream and moisturizer with an SPF.

Now being the beauty professional that I am (you all know that I'm a licensed esthetician) I'm somewhat picky when it comes to spa treatments. I opted out of extractions because those are for the hands of my regular esthetician. I wish I would have enjoyed my foot massage - but I do realize that "touch" is personal. So, what feels good to one, may not necessarily work for another. And I must say that I always look forward to mask treatments, with a preference for those that work for the face, neck (shows first signs of aging) and decollete (the second face!). The collagen mask used during the treatment was for the face only.

At the completion of my treatment, my therapist Lisan recommended that I consider purchasing Somme Institute's Step 3 Serum, which is a highly concentrated vitamin C gel that works to improve skin tone, elasticity and build collagen. I thought her recommendation was excellent after having discussed the results of my skin analysis with her earlier and knowing she'd used both a magnifying lamp and woods lamp during her analysis. It's always my goal to protect an investment such as a facial, and maintain the esthetician's hard work with a consistent at-home facial regimen. So, great product recommendations are always welcome!

The afternoon I spent as the The Spa was outstanding - my facial was amazing (yes, my skin is still glowing!) and I was treated like a queen! I'm looking forward to returning soon for much, much more! Why? Because I'm worth it!

Have you visited The Spa at Mandarin Oriental 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: Spa Etiquette 101

Remember how excited I was a year ago about the news of a Bliss Spa coming to DC? Well, a friend and I headed over there this past weekend for a few treatments (which I'll tell you about later this week), and while there I noticed that not everyone knows "spa etiquette". So, here are my top five tips for ensuring a relaxing spa experience:

1. Arrive early: This will give you time to check in, complete your client consultation form, change your clothes (if needed), and most importantly relax before your treatment.

2. Be courteous: This should really be unspoken. But, as a reminder, turn the cell phones off, use a low speaking voice and keep conversation to a minimum. Respect others, as well as the tranquil and relaxing atmosphere.

3. Use the amenities: They are there for your comfort, convenience and pleasure!

4. Complete the Client Consultation Form: This is a MUST! Don't ever skip completing this form. The questions you are asked to complete will determine if it is safe to receive services. Your spa therapist may discover a contraindication, which is a factor or reason that makes it inadvisable to proceed with a treatment. Contraindications include certain medications, contagious diseases, skin disorders or medical conditions.

5. Communicate with your spa therapist: No one I know is able to read minds. So, ask questions and communicate your "likes" and "dislikes". If it's your first time, let your spa therapist know. If a treatment doesn't feel right, be sure to tell them. If you're unsure about how to maintain a treatment (if possible), then please ask.

Follow these tips and the rest will be up to the spa and spa therapist to guarantee that you have the most amazing visit ever!

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Mischo Beauty Loves Zoya Nail Polish's "Robyn"

The nail color of the summer is, hands down, Zoya Nail Polish's "Robyn" which is part of the newly released Flash Collection. This cream shade is described as a "perfect turquoise" and looks absolutely gorgeous on! The compliments have not stopped!

Love it?

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Because You're Worth It!: Guerlain Spa at The Waldorf-Astoria

There actually is one other thing- aside from lounging- that I'd love to be doing this weekend and it's relaxing at the Guerlain Spa at The Waldorf-Astoria! After browsing the spa menu, I'm making plans to treat myself to the Sublime Deluxe treatment- which has to be nothing less then heaven on earth! Check it out and let me know if you agree...

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Mischo Beauty School: Facials 101

I consider facials my "essential beauty product" because not only are facials relaxing and pampering, but they are crucial to maintaining the health of your skin. For those of you who've never had a facial, it's a service performed by an esthetician and usually consists of a professional deep cleansing, steam treatment, exfoliation, extractions, massage, mask, moisturizer and possibly other products and treatments.

Not only will facials improve and revive your skin, but they also help maintain the skin's health. You should definitely consider incorporating facials into your beauty regimen! If I haven't convinced you yet- here are a few of the many other benefits:

1. SLOWS DOWN PREMATURE AGING
2. Professional Deep Cleansing, Steam Treatment, Exfoliation, Extractions, Massage & Mask
3. Relaxing/Pampering
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

Questions? Anyone had a fabulous facial lately? Love your skin.

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What's your least favorite spa treatment?

I had to ask this question after sharing with you all yesterday, the fact that I hate body scrub treatments at spas. So now it's your turn to share!

So my question for you today is: What's your least favorite spa treatment?

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Mischo Beauty Extra: Priti Nail Polish & Soy Remover

Last year I told you all how much I loved the nails (by Priti Organic Spa) at Tuleh's runway show during Mercedes Benz Fashion Week. Well, I recently had the opportunity to try Priti's "Bright Summer Day" nail kit. The kit includes Fireglow and Hula Girl Rose nail polish, 2-in-1 Top and Base Coat and a 2oz. Soy Polish Remover.

The nail polish colors are bright and cheery- perfect for summer, but most importantly they're free of formaldehyde, DBP & toluene! The Soy Polish Remover is a must-have. No chemical smell whatsoever! It's non-toxic and 100% biodegradable. The entire Priti nail polish collection and Soy Polish Remover are available at www.pritinyc.com.

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Mischo Beauty School: Mini-Facials 101 & Mario Badescu

So those of you who follow me on Twitter know that I sent out a few "tweets" yesterday about the mini-facial I was giving myself. Mini-facials, like facials, are my "essential beauty product" - they're vital to maintaining my skin's health in between facial appointments.

I've decided to share my mini-facial routine with you because everyone can benefit from it- whether you receive monthly facials or not. My best advice is to invest in great products for your skin type/issues, and make mini-facials a part of your skincare routine. My skin type is normal/combination, with an oily t-zone and I used the following Mario Badescu products:

Cleanser: Enzyme Cleansing Gel ( all skin types)
Toner: Cucumber Cleansing Lotion (combination & oily skin types)
Exfoliant: (my own)
Mask: Enzyme Revitalizing Mask (combination, dry & sensitive skin types)
Eye Cream: Hyaluronic Eye Cream (all skin types)
Night Cream: Seaweed Night Cream (combination, oily & sensitive skin types)
Moisturizer: Collagen Moisturizer SPF 15 (combination & sensitive skin types)

So the steps are simply: Cleanse (Enzyme Cleansing Gel), Tone (Cucumber Cleansing Lotion), Steam Treatment, Exfoliate, Tone, Mask (Enzyme Revitalizing Mask), Tone & Moisturize (Hyaluronic Eye Cream, Seaweed Night Cream or Collagen Moisturizer SPF 15)!

So there you have it! Very easy- and anyone can do this! Please leave your questions in the comments section below and I'll get right back to you. Love your skin.

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Mischo Beauty School: Facials 101

I consider facials my "essential beauty product" because not only are facials relaxing and pampering, but they are crucial to maintaining the health of your skin. For those of you who've never had a facial, it's simply a service performed by an esthetician and usually consists of a professional deep cleansing, steam treatment, exfoliation, extractions, massage, mask, moisturizer and possibly other products and treatments.

Not only will facials improve and revive your skin, but they will also help maintain the skin's health. You should definitely consider incorporating facials into your beauty regimen! If I haven't convinced you yet- here are a few of the many other benefits:

1. SLOWS DOWN PREMATURE AGING
2. Professional Deep Cleansing, Steam Treatment, Exfoliation, Extractions, Massage & Mask
3. Relaxing/Pampering
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

Questions? Anyone had a fabulous facial lately? Love your skin.

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Mischo Beauty Alert: Bliss Spa is coming to DC!

Many of you might remember that I'm a huge fan of Marcia Kilgore, so when I'd heard about a Bliss Spa coming to DC, I had to get the details!

Well, from what I've been able to learn, the new spa will be located inside the new W Hotel, located next to the White House! Both the hotel and spa are scheduled to open on August 1st, and the spa will include a full service menu (facials, massages, nails and waxing services) with four treatment rooms- but no wet rooms (no wet body treatments such as scrubs, etc.). As I continue to learn more, I'll be sure to keep you updated!

Any Bliss fans out there?

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Mischo Beauty: Bliss Spa Says Farewell to Bush...

I thought you all might want to take advantage of this discount! From January 19th - February 1st, get 20% off Bliss Spa's signature brazilian bikini wax- and any waxing and post waxing products.

And, if you live in NY, LA, Chicago, Dallas, San Francisco, Atlanta or Scottsdale and haven't visited a Bliss Spa- well, here's your opportunity! If you decide to visit, please share your experience with us!

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Mischo Beauty School: Eyelash/Eyebrow Tinting 101

I've recently received a few emails with regards to eyelash/eyebrow tinting. For those of you who've been following my blog for some time now, you may remember my search for eyelash/eyebrow tinting models while completing my esthetics program. At any rate, both services are performed (or should be performed) by a licensed esthetician using a vegetable-based dye, which is completely safe for the eyes.

Tinting brows saves from having to stencil or fill them in daily, because it lasts from four to six weeks. The procedure only takes a few minutes and the results are eye-opening! Avoid using harsh-looking black tints on eyebrows, and opt for a rich chocolate brown (if that particular color family suits you). I suggest selecting a blue-black or jet-black tint for lash definition.

Have you had this service? If so, what did you think of the results? Do tell!

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Mischo Beauty School: Extractions 101

This post is in response to a question from fellow beauty blogger, MakeupByRenRen. She wanted to know what the extraction process involved and if it was painful. So in response to her questions, I've decided to dedicate this post to extractions.

The extraction process involves the manual removal of build-up and blackheads, which helps to unblock clogged areas and minimize the size of pores. Basically, oil and other forms of build-up are extracted from the hair follicles. There are three ways in which this can be done- the esthetician may wrap index fingers with cotton, use cotton swabs or use a comedone extractor, which is a metal tool.

During a facial, the esthetician will cleanse, exfoliate and treat the skin with steam in order to soften pores and prepare for extractions. Next, pressure is applied around the skin surrounding the hair follicle in order to extract the impaction. The procedure might be uncomfortable, but should be painless. As long as you're seeing an experienced esthetician, you should have no worries!

That's pretty much the easiest answer, without going into too much detail. Please feel free to email me with any questions!

Love your skin.

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Mischo Beauty Review: Bluemercury Apothecary and Spa

For those of you who follow my Twitter updates, you know that I headed to Georgetown early Saturday morning for a facial at Bluemercury Apothecary and Spa. Facials are my "essential beauty product", because not only are facials relaxing and pampering, but they are crucial to maintaining the health of your skin. This was my first spa treatment with Bluemercury and I was too excited!

Lance, my esthetician for the day, explained that the Brightening Facial, which was what I'd be receiving, would "lighten, brighten & tighten"! Now this facial is specifically recommended for those dealing with issues relating to discoloration, hyperpigmentation, sun damage or age spots. It's also suggested for those who might be suffering from dull skin and needing a "pick-me-up". Well I fell into the last category and knew that a professional exfoliation treatment would be just what my skin needed- and after my consultation with Lance, I felt assured that I was in good hands.

This facial included cleansing, toning, a glycolic peel, extractions (which I opted out of and was given an herbal clay mask in its place), a vitamin C treatment, vitamin oxygen blast and a moisturizer. After Lance had finished my facial and I'd been given the opportunity to see the results, I could see that my skin looked refreshed and renewed - and definitely brighter! It felt so soft and amazingly smooth!

This is a facial treatment worth investing in for guaranteed results and it's the perfect way to prepare for the upcoming holiday season. I also recommend this to those of you heading to DC for the Inauguration festivities! For additional Bluemercury locations, please visit www.bluemercury.com

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Mischo Beauty School: Skin Analysis 101

I've said this before and I'll probably say it a million more times, but I can't begin to name all the reasons why you should incorporate facials into your beauty routine! Not only are facials relaxing and pampering, but they are crucial to maintaining the health of your skin. In my opinion, and as a licensed esthetician, one of the most important steps in a facial treatment is the skin analysis. An esthetician can't properly treat you unless they know the following:

1. Skin type
2. Skin conditions present
3. Skin texture

The esthetician should use a magnifying lamp/light during the skin analysis in order to properly see/feel your skin and perform detailed work. A proper skin analysis will help the esthetician know what products and services should be performed and which are contraindicated. A contraindication is a factor or reason that makes it inadvisable to proceed with a treatment. They include certain medications, contagious diseases, skin disorders, medical conditions and skin irritation.

At the end of your facial service you should leave knowing what your skin conditions are and what you should use to improve your skin's health. You should now be knowledgeable enough to know how to properly select products for your skin type/issues.

Any questions? Love your skin.

Darphin CLEAR WHITE Brightening & Soothing Serum

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Mischo Beauty School: Facials 101

First, please accept my apologies for the delay in posting! I traveled home to Indiana for the Thanksgiving holiday and had some unforeseen computer issues. I do truly appreciate all of your patience and support!

So I'm posting about facials again due to the many questions I've received from those of you who follow my Twitter updates. I try to give myself a mini-facial once a week and recently decided to include the steps on Twitter. For those of you who've never had a facial, here's a basic lesson.

I consider facials my "essential beauty product", because not only are facials relaxing and pampering, but they are crucial to maintaining the health of your skin. For those of you who've never had a facial, it's simply a service performed by an esthetician and usually consists of a professional deep cleansing, steam treatment, exfoliation, extractions, massage, mask, moisturizer and possibly other products and treatments.

Not only do facials improve and revive your skin, but they also help maintain the skin's health. You should definitely consider incorporating facials into your beauty regimen! If I haven't convinced you yet- here are a few of the many other benefits:

1. SLOWS DOWN PREMATURE AGING
2. Professional Deep Cleansing, Steam Treatment, Exfoliation, Extractions, Massage, Mask & Moisturizer
3. Relaxing/Pampering
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

Questions? Anyone had a fabulous facial lately? Love your skin.

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