Mischo Beauty School: Skin Types vs. Skin Conditions

If you take anything away from this blog, my hope is that it's properly caring for your skin! Education is key- and that's the reason I continue with the "Mischo Beauty School" posts (your "beauty education"!). According to the New York Times "a new beauty product is born every 2.5 seconds", so while there's always a new product to look forward to, the reality is that these products come and go! The foundation for achieving great skin is knowing your skin type, skin conditions and implementing a consistent skincare regimen.

Now with that said, let's address "Skin Types vs. Skin Conditions". Your skin type is genetically determined (you're born with it!) and most often can be controlled with a consistent skincare regimen. Skin types are as follows:

- Normal
- Dry
- Oily/Combination
- Acneic
- Sensitive

Skin conditions are most often caused by external factors such as the environment, stress, medication, etc. and may include the following:

- Dehydration
- Sensitivities
- Aging
- Pigmentation
- Breakouts

These conditions affect all skin types and may change daily. The great news is that these conditions can be corrected! So for example, you might have an oily skin type that suffers from breakouts and pigmentation issues. And so with all that said, knowing the difference between your skin type and skin conditions will only better help you in selecting the best products for your skincare regimen which will ultimately assist in achieving the goal of healthy skin!

Any questions? Love your skin.

Read More......

Ask Mischo Beauty...

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

"I just wanted to know if you have any suggestions on what I can do about the dark spots on my face. How can I get rid of them without a chemical peel?"

I could recommend a variety of products to treat your dark spots - called hyperpigmentation, but we really need to get to the bottom of WHY it's happening in the FIRST place! Do you follow a skincare regimen? Have you been consistent with your skincare regimen? Are you using the correct products for your skin type? Is something internal causing the dark spots? Are you allergic to certain ingredients in the products you're using? Do you have sensitive skin?

Ask yourself those questions and be honest with your answers! I'd also recommend a visit to the Dermatologist before you spend money on products! What works for one person, may not necessarily work for you. Your doctor should be able to help you get to the bottom of why this is happening, as well as give you proper direction on how to prevent it. I believe in prevention- first and foremost!

Once you've seen a Dermatologist and have been properly advised, I'd recommend that you start following a consistent skincare regimen using products specifically for your skin type/conditions. And, if you're able to- start investing in monthly facials! As I'm sure you've read on my blog, I BELIEVE in facials for so many beneficial reasons!

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 School: Hyperpigmentation 101

As a follow-up to this week's "Ask Mischo Beauty...", I realized it's been a while since I last discussed hyperpigmentation. I receive questions on Twitter, almost daily, from those wanting product recommendations to treat dark marks, spots and areas as a result of acne/breakouts. My response is always the same and focuses on PREVENTION. We all know that just about every brand makes a product to treat hyperpigmentation (either a spot treatment of some sort, or a fade cream). So I could very easily give out a list of products- and I do, but only after discussing prevention first.

Let me qualify all of this by stating that I am not a medical doctor and this response should not be mistaken as medical advice. My recommendation for treating hyperpigmentation is to see a dermatologist who can help you determine the cause, as well as the best treatment for it.

Hyperpigmentation is the overproduction of pigment (melanin) which results in discoloration or dark areas (spots, marks, etc.) on the skin. It may be caused by a number of internal or external factors such as sunlight, injury, trauma, medication, skin diseases and skin treatments and products. And, women of color are more susceptible to skin discoloration due to genetics and the differences in skin physiology. So, if you have a tendency for this skin condition, you should avoid the following:

1. Sun Exposure (it's one of the biggest causes of hyperpigmentation and will make existing disorders worse)

2. Deep Chemical Peels, Microdermabrasion or Laser Services (these services could result in injury or trauma to the skin- make sure you see a highly skilled/trained practitioner for services such as these)

3. Over-Exfoliation (this will worsen the disorder and might cause hypopigmentation, which is the loss of pigment)

4. Manipulation of Pimples (don't EVER pick them! use an over-the-counter spot treatment or medication prescribed by your dermatologist to treat them)

As a licensed esthetician, my recommendation is first and foremost making sure you're using products for your particular skin type. Secondly, make sure you're consistent with your at-home skincare regimen. And most importantly, a visit to the dermatologist is an investment in YOU!

Any questions? Love your skin.

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Ask Mischo Beauty...

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

"Thank you for the beauty tips you post on your page! They are incredibly helpful. I do have a question about facial skin care. My face, due to hormonal changes, broke out really badly some years ago and has left me with blemishes/dark marks on my cheeks (in fact when my face breaks out now it usually leaves a mark). What would you recommend to correct this? I'm not sure if I should see someone about facials, go to a dermatologist, or use an OTC fade cream? Thanks a million!"

You're very welcome! Now I could recommend a variety of products to treat hyperpigmentation, but it bothers me that your skin instantly leaves marks now after a breakout. You really need to get to the bottom of WHY that is happening in the FIRST place! Is it something internal? Are you using the wrong products? Are you allergic to certain ingredients? Is your skin super sensitive now?

I'd recommend a visit to the Dermatologist before you spend more money on products! Your doctor should be able to help you get to the bottom of why this is happening, as well as give you proper direction on how to prevent it. I believe in prevention- first and foremost!

Once you've seen a Dermatologist and have been properly advised, I'd recommend that you start following a consistent skincare regimen using products specifically for your skin type/conditions. And, if you're able to- start investing in monthly facials! As I'm sure you've read on my blog, I BELIEVE in facials for so many beneficial reasons!

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......

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Mischo Beauty School: Skin Types vs. Skin Conditions

If you take anything away from this blog, my hope is that it's properly caring for your skin! Education is key- and that's the reason I continue with the "Mischo Beauty School" posts (your "beauty education"!). According to the New York Times "a new beauty product is born every 2.5 seconds", so while there's always a new product to look forward to, the reality is that these products come and go! The foundation for achieving great skin is knowing your skin type, skin conditions and implementing a consistent skincare regimen.

Now with that said, let's address "Skin Types vs. Skin Conditions". Your skin type is genetically determined (you're born with it!) and most often can be controlled with a consistent skincare regimen. Skin types are as follows:

- Normal
- Dry
- Oily/Combination
- Acneic
- Sensitive

Skin conditions are most often caused by external factors such as the environment, stress, medication, etc. and may include the following:

- Dehydration
- Sensitivities
- Aging
- Pigmentation
- Breakouts

These conditions affect all skin types and may change daily. The great news is that these conditions can be corrected! So for example, you might have an oily skin type that suffers from breakouts and pigmentation issues. And so with all that said, knowing the difference between your skin type and skin conditions will only better help you in selecting the best products for your skincare regimen which will ultimately assist in achieving the goal of healthy skin!

Any questions? Love your skin.

Read More......

Mischo Beauty School: Serums 101

I believe in serums and am amazed at how the skin benefits from them! A serum is simply a highly concentrated treatment of active ingredients used to penetrate and treat various skin conditions such as dehydration, stress, environmental damage, fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation issues or loss of elasticity.

They're usually made up of vitamins, lipids or antioxidants and are usually the consistency of a thin liquid. To allow for maximum penetration into the skin, they're formulated with smaller molecules which make them extremely effective. They can be used both day and night and are usually applied under a moisturizer, but can be used alone. During a facial an esthetician might apply a serum under your mask or before the application of your moisturizer, depending on your specific skincare needs.

So, do you need to use a serum? Well, I would suggest following a skincare regimen first. Once you're consistent with your regimen, really begin to pay attention to your skin and make note- for example- of dehydrated areas, loss of elasticity and dullness. If your skincare regimen doesn't correct these issues, then I'd highly suggest investing in a serum!

Questions? Love your skin.

Read More......

Mischo Beauty Pick: Avon's ANEW CLINICAL Luminosity Pro Brightening Serum

I haven't talked about serums, as they relate to a complete skincare regimen in a while, and thought Avon's new ANEW Clinical Luminosity Pro Brightening Serum was definitely worth checking out. The benefits of serums, as discussed here, are amazing and I highly encourage incorporating them into your at-home skincare regimen.

Now the ANEW Clinical Luminosity Pro Brightening Serum is recommended for all skin types, but specifically for those who are experiencing the following skin conditions: premature aging, hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone and dullness (be sure to read this!). The serum's key ingredient, L-Aspartic Acid, works to prevent discoloration while removing dead skin cells. And what I'm loving most is Avon's Skincare Quiz which helps you determine the best regimen of products for your skin's needs!

If your at-home skincare regimen includes a serum, please let me know what you're using and why?

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

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Mischo Beauty School: Sun Damage 101

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

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

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

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

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

Love your skin.

Read More......

Mischo Beauty School: Skin Types vs. Skin Conditions

If you take anything away from this blog, my hope is that it's properly caring for your skin! Education is key- and that's the reason I continue with the "Mischo Beauty School" posts (your "beauty education"!). According to the New York Times "a new beauty product is born every 2.5 seconds", so while there's always a new product to look forward to, the reality is that these products come and go! The foundation for achieving great skin is knowing your skin type, skin conditions and implementing a consistent skincare regimen.

Now with that said, let's address "Skin Types vs. Skin Conditions". Your skin type is genetically determined (you're born with it!) and most often can be controlled with a consistent skincare regimen. Skin types are as follows:

- Normal
- Dry
- Oily/Combination
- Acneic
- Sensitive

Skin conditions are most often caused by external factors such as the environment, stress, medication, etc. and may include the following:

- Dehydration
- Sensitivities
- Aging
- Pigmentation
- Breakouts

These conditions affect all skin types and may change daily. The great news is that these conditions can be corrected! So for example, you might have an oily skin type that suffers from breakouts and pigmentation issues. And so with all that said, knowing the difference between your skin type and skin conditions will only better help you in selecting the best products for your skincare regimen which will ultimately assist in achieving the goal of healthy skin!

Any questions? Love your skin.

Read More......

Mischo Beauty School: Serums 101

I believe in serums and am amazed at how the skin benefits from them! A serum is simply a highly concentrated treatment of active ingredients used to penetrate and treat various skin conditions such as dehydration, stress, environmental damage, fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation issues or loss of elasticity.

They're usually made up of vitamins, lipids or antioxidants and are usually the consistency of a thin liquid. To allow for maximum penetration into the skin, they're formulated with smaller molecules which make them extremely effective. They can be used both day and night and are usually applied under a moisturizer, but can be used alone. During a facial an esthetician might apply a serum under your mask or before the application of your moisturizer, depending on your specific skincare needs.

So, do you need to use a serum? Well, I would suggest following a skincare regimen first. Once you're consistent with your regimen, really begin to pay attention to your skin and make note- for example- of dehydrated areas, loss of elasticity and dullness. If your skincare regimen doesn't correct these issues, then I'd highly suggest investing in a serum!

Questions? Love your skin.

Read More......

Korres Discount for Mischo Beauty Readers!

I haven't completed my follow-up post on my Fashion's Night Out experience just yet, but I will tell you all that I was able to stop in the Korres store in Soho that night and fell in love with it! And better yet, Korres has extended a 30% discount to Mischo Beauty readers. You have from now until September 30th to take advantage of this promotion when you visit www.korresusa.com and enter promotion code MISCHO*.

Now just in case you're not aware, all Korres products contain active natural ingredients and are formulated to address every skincare need (my dream come true- and yours too! ). So the answer is "yes" to those of you wondering if there's a product to address your skin's needs!

So far I've tried the following:

- Materia Herba Toning Cleansing Foam
- Jasmine Lip Butter
- Silicone Free Face Primer
- Wild Rose 24-Hour Moisturizer
- Provitamin B5 & Rice Bran Mascara

A must-have for me is the Silicone Free Face Primer, which smooths and evens out the skin and can be worn under foundation or alone, on top of your moisturizer. The texture of the Wild Rose 24-Hour Moisturizer is rich, creamy- very luxurious! Those of you experiencing signs of premature aging and hyperpigmentation issues should definitely check this out!

- Questions about hyperpigmentation? Get the answers here.
- Is your current skincare regimen working for you? Here are the basics.

*cannot be combined with other offers*

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Mischo Beauty Pick: CoverBlend by Exuviance

I have another recommendation for those of you dealing with issues such as dark eye circles, blemishes, age spots, varicose veins, bruises, birthmarks, stretch marks, hyperpigmentation (which I've written about many times before) and tattoos on the face, hands, legs and body.

Well, the brand is called CoverBlend Concealing Treatment Cosmetics. This line is not only formulated to provide natural looking coverage, but it also contains Polyhydroxy Acid Gluconolactone, which works to improve skin tone and diminish wrinkles.

The line includes the following:

- CoverBlend Multi-Function Concealer, SPF 15 ( a must-have!)
- CoverBlend Corrective Leg & Body Makeup, SPF 18
- CoverBlend Concealing Treatment Makeup, SPF 20
- Exuvaince Skin Caring Foundation, SPF 15

It's available at ULTA stores and at www.exuviance.com. Have you tried this line?

Read More......

Mischo Beauty School: Microdermabrasion 101

I've been writing about the benefits of exfoliation and how important it is to incorporate it into your skincare regimen for over a year now, and last week we discussed peels, which are a form of chemical exfolation. This week I'd like to discuss microdermabrasion, which is a mechanical form of exfoliation.

As I've stated, microdermabrasion is a mechanical form of exfoliation that involves the use of a vacuum to spray microcrystals across the skin in order to resurface the outermost layer of skin. It is a noninvasive procedure and the benefits include improved skin texture, moisture retention, elastin and collagen production, and the reduction of fine lines, wrinkles, and pigmentation issues. You might be a candidate for this procedure if you've experienced the following:

- Sun Damage
- Coarse textured skin
- Enlarged pores
- Fine lines
- Wrinkles
- Pigmentation problems

The service includes a professional cleansing, massage, microdermabrasion, a soothing mask and the application of a moisturizer with a sunscreen. In order to achieve the best results, you really need to commit to a series (with each procedure 7-10 days apart) and be consistent with your home skincare regimen. The results from this procedure are amazing and those who've experienced the benefits from it, recommend it without reservation!

I've had this procedure performed on myself while completing my esthetics program. I'm not a candidate for it because I have easily sensitized skin, and it is not recommended if you have sensitive skin or scar easily. The procedure can be uncomfortable and you might experience some sensitivity which usually goes away shortly thereafter. If improperly performed, it might cause hypopigmentation/hyperpigmentation (light/dark discoloration of the skin).

If you're considering this treatment, I would highly suggest having a thorough consultation with your esthetician. Based on a discussion about your lifestyle and medical history, it would be determined if it was appropriate for you. Love your skin.

Have you had microdermabrasion? If so, what were the results?

Read More......

Mischo Beauty Pick: Dr. Susan Taylor's Rx for Brown Skin

I've fallen in love with Dr. Susan Taylor's Rx for Brown Skin's Body Lotion and Body Butter. I started testing them out about a month ago and I'm pleased with the results. Both are formulated with a blend of olive fruit extract and natural essential oils of orange, bergamot, mandarin and rosewood- which all work to brighten and purify the skin. What sets them apart from other moisturizers is the fact that they're formulated to even skintone and they're developed by a dermatologist!

The body butter is pictured above on the left side of my hand and the body lotion is on the right.
The texture of the body butter is rich and creamy and my preference was to use it immediately after a bath, while my skin was still moist and my pores were still open, to ensure maximum absorption. Oh, and my feet loved it too!
I used the body lotion during the day, taking it with me to use as a handcream throughout the day. It's texture is lighter than the body butter, but both absorb quickly and are non-greasy- which I love!
Rx for Brown Skin is the first dermatologist-created skincare line created for women of color (Black, Latina, Asian, Indian, and Middle Eastern) by Dr. Susan Taylor. She's also written a book called "Dr. Susan Taylor's Rx for Brown Skin" which covers beauty basics, top skin-of-color concerns and beauty for life. For those of you who've emailed me with regards to hyperpigmentation and other skincare issues, this is a good reference for you- buy it! She addresses skin pigmentation, scars, acne and other issues.
The product line also includes a Virtual Peel which is a gentle chemical exfoliant. I plan to test it this weekend and include my results in my "Mischo Beauty School: Peels 101" post next Monday.
The Bright and Even Exfoliating Kit was developed for those of you who have issues with hyperpigmentation or dull and uneven skintones. I love it because it's a complete regimen- cleanser, toner, moisturizer and advanced botanical brightener- yay! No guessing or over-thinking required - this is a perfect start for those of you who are making resolutions to take better care of your skin. As I've said before- healthy skin is beautiful skin!

Will you consider this line for your skincare needs?

Read More......

Mischo Beauty Pick: Cover FX Total Coverage Cream Foundation SPF 30

For those of you dealing with issues such as hyperpigmentation, acne scars, under eye circles or rosacea- for example, well you may want to consider trying a product line called Cover FX. This line of color cosmeceuticals was developed to help those with or without skin conditions achieve a beautiful complexion.

I had the opportunity to try the Cover FX Total Coverage Cream Foundation SPF 30, which is specifically formulated for sensitive skin and contains an SPF 30, vitamin E and antioxidants. Now if I wanted to cover my freckles (which I don't) I could with this! The foundation was very easy to apply and I followed it with the Translucent Setting Powder. I love that it's noncomedogenic (so it shouldn't clog your pores), oil-free and fragrance-free.

With an entire range of coverage options and the most extensive color palette of any line on the market, I encourage those of you who've emailed me in the past regarding issues with hyperpigmentation to check this out!

Have you tried this line? Any thoughts?

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Mischo Beauty Review: DDF Protect and Correct UV Moisturizer SPF 15

The best advice that I can give all of my readers with regards to skincare is to buy skincare products according to your individual skincare type/needs/issues. So for those of you with hyperpigmentation issues or uneven skintone, you will want to consider trying DDF's Protect and Correct UV Moisturizer SPF 15. This is a lightweight moisturizer that works to even skintone and prevent hyperpigmentation.

As an esthetician, you all can probably imagine how passionate I am about skincare. The one aspect I’m most passionate about is protection from the sun. This product contains broad spectrum UVA-UVB protection. Sun damage leads not only to skin cancer, aging, and collagen and elastin deterioration, but to hyperpigmentation, capillary damage and free radical damage. Everyone needs to wear a moisturizer with an SPF - regardless of your skintone-everyday, rain or shine! With this product you'll receive the benefits of the prevention of hyperpigmentation, correction of uneven skintone and protection from UV rays. This all combined makes it totally worth giving it a try!

Have you tried this product?

DDF-Doctor's Dermatologic Formula Protect & Correct UV Moisturizer SPF 15 1.7 oz

Read More......

Mischo Beauty School: Hyperpigmentation 101

Over the past few months I've received quite a few questions on the issue of hyperpigmentation and so I've decided to repost this entry from April 9th. I'd originally received a question from Kia of Yummy 411 with regards to women of color and the issue of hyperpigmentation as a result of having had acne, laser hair removal or from shaving. She wanted to know what I'd recommend to treat the dark areas and if I had a suggestion of a particular concealer for covering discolored areas. In sharing my response with Kia, I wanted to share this with my readers as well.

Let me qualify my response by stating that I am not a medical doctor and this response should not be mistaken as medical advice. My recommendation for treating hyperpigmentation is to first see a dermatologist who can help you determine the cause of the discoloration and the best treatment for it.

Hyperpigmentation is the overproduction of pigment (melanin) which results in discoloration or dark areas on the skin. It may be caused by a number of internal or external factors such as sunlight, injury, trauma, medication, skin diseases and skin treatments and products. Women of color are more susceptible to skin discoloration due to genetics and the differences in physiology. If you have a tendency for this disorder, then you should avoid the following:

1. Sun Exposure (it's one of the biggest causes of hyperpigmentation and will make existing disorders worse)

2. Deep Chemical Peels, Microdermabrasion or Laser Services (these services could result in injury or trauma to the skin)

3. Over-Exfoliation (this will make the disorder worse and might cause hypopigmentation, which is the loss of pigment)

4. Manipulation of Pimples (use an over-the-counter spot treatment or medication prescribed by your dermatologist to treat them)

Because shaving may cause hyperpigmentation for some, in addition to irritated skin and ingrown hairs, I would suggest waxing, threading, or using a depilatory (hair removal cream). Your dermatologist may even have a treatment to block hair growth.

I'd recommend Dermablend products as a concealer. I've heard over and over again how great they are for achieving maximum coverage and a flawless look.

Though skin of color is more susceptible to pigmentation issues, it's advantage is that due to it's difference in physiology, it has a greater protection from the sun and shows fewer signs of aging.

Any thoughts on hyperpigmentation? I'd love to hear what you think! Love your skin.

P.S. If I could be any where in the world right now it would be France for Paris Fashion Week. You all know how much I love Kerry Washington and so I couldn't resist posting the photos above! Kerry attends the Louis Vuitton Spring/Summer 2009 show in Paris on October 5th.

Isn't she lovely?

(photos by Francois Durand/Getty Images Europe)

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Mischo Beauty School: Microdermabrasion 101

I've been writing about the benefits of exfoliation and how important it is to incorporate it into your skincare regimen for the past few months. This post is in response to a few of my readers who have e-mailed me inquiring about microdermabrasion. They wanted to know what the procedure entailed and who would be the best candidate for it.

Well, microdermabrasion is a mechanical form of exfoliation that uses a vacuum to spray microcrystals across the skin. It is a noninvasive procedure that works to resurface the outermost layer of skin. The benefits include improved skin texture, moisture retention, elastin and collagen production, and reduces fine lines, wrinkles, and pigmentation issues. You might be a candidate for this procedure if you've experienced the following:

- Sun Damage
- Coarse textured skin
- Enlarged pores
- Fine lines
- Wrinkles
- Pigmentation problems

The service usually includes a professional cleansing, massage, the microdermabrasion procedure itself, a soothing mask and the application of a moisturizer with a sunscreen. In order to achieve the best results, you really need to commit to a series (with each procedure 7-10 days apart) and be consistent with your home skincare regimen.

I've had this procedure performed on myself only because I was required while completing my esthetics program, but I'm not a candidate for it because I have easily sensitized skin. It is not recommended if you have sensitive skin or scar easily. The procedure can be uncomfortable and you might experience some sensitivity which usually goes away shortly thereafter.

If you're considering it, I would highly suggest having a thorough consultation with your esthetician. Based on a discussion about your lifestyle and medical history, it would be determined if it was appropriate for you. If improperly performed, it might cause hypopigmentation/hyperpigmentation (light/dark discoloration of the skin). The results from this procedure are amazing and those who've experienced the benefits from it recommend it without reservation.

Love your skin.

Have you had microdermabrasion? If so, what were the results?

Read More......

Mischo Beauty School: Hyperpigmentation 101

I received a question from Kia of Yummy 411 with regards to women of color and the issue of hyperpigmentation as a result of having had acne, laser hair removal or from shaving. She wanted to know what I'd recommend to treat the dark areas and if I had a suggestion of a particular concealer for covering discolored areas. In sharing my response with Kia, I wanted to share this with my readers as well.

Let me qualify my response by stating that I am not a medical doctor and this response should not be mistaken as medical advice. My recommendation for treating hyperpigmentation is to first see a dermatologist who can help you determine the cause of the discoloration and the best treatment for it.

Hyperpigmentation is the overproduction of pigment (melanin) which results in discoloration or dark areas on the skin. It may be caused by a number of internal or external factors such as sunlight, injury, trauma, medication, skin diseases and skin treatments and products. Women of color are more susceptible to skin discoloration due to genetics and the differences in physiology. If you have a tendency for this disorder, then you should avoid the following:

1. Sun Exposure (it's one of the biggest causes of hyperpigmentation and will make existing disorders worse)

2. Deep Chemical Peels, Microdermabrasion or Laser Services (these services could result in injury or trauma to the skin)

3. Over-Exfoliation (this will make the disorder worse and might cause hypopigmentation, which is the loss of pigment)

4. Manipulation of Pimples (use an over-the-counter spot treatment or medication prescribed by your dermatologist to treat them)

Because shaving may cause hyperpigmentation for some, in addition to irritated skin and ingrown hairs, I would suggest waxing, threading, or using a depilatory (hair removal cream). Your dermatologist may even have a treatment to block hair growth.

I'd recommend Dermablend products as a concealer. I've heard over and over again how great they are for achieving maximum coverage and a flawless look.

Though skin of color is more susceptible to pigmentation issues, it's advantage is that due to it's difference in physiology, it has a greater protection from the sun and shows fewer signs of aging.

Love your skin.

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

Any thoughts on hyperpigmentation? I'd love to hear what you think!

Read More......

Mischo Beauty School: Microdermabrasion 101

I've been writing about the benefits of exfoliation and how important it is to incorporate it into your skincare regimen for the past few months. This post is in response to a few of my readers who have e-mailed me inquiring about microdermabrasion. They wanted to know what the procedure entailed and who would be the best candidate for it. Well, microdermabrasion is a mechanical form of exfoliation that uses a vacuum to spray microcrystals across the skin. It is a noninvasive procedure that works to resurface the outermost layer of skin. The benefits include improved skin texture, moisture retention, elastin and collagen production, and reduces fine lines, wrinkles, and pigmentation issues. You might be a candidate for this procedure if you've experienced the following:

- Sun Damage
- Coarse textured skin
- Enlarged pores
- Fine lines
- Wrinkles
- Pigmentation problems

The service would include a professional cleansing, massage, the microdermabrasion treatment itself, a soothing mask and the application of a moisturizer with a sunscreen. In order to achieve the best results, you really need to commit to a series (with each procedure 7-10 days apart) and be consistent with your home skincare regimen.

I've had this procedure performed on myself because I was required while completing my esthetics program, but I'm not a candidate for it because I have easily sensitized skin. It is not recommended if you have sensitive skin or scar easily. The procedure can be uncomfortable and you might experience some sensitivity which usually goes away shortly thereafter.

If you're considering it, I would highly suggest having a thorough consultation with your esthetician. Based on a discussion about your lifestyle and medical history, it would be determined if it was appropriate for you. If improperly performed, it might cause hypopigmentation/hyperpigmentation (light/dark discoloration of the skin). The results from this procedure are amazing and those who've experienced the benefits from it recommend it without reservation.

Have you experienced this procedure? If so, what were the results for you? Please feel free to e-mail me with any questions! Love your skin.

Read More......