Ask Mischo Beauty...

This week's question comes from my sister, Allison, who asked the following:

"What's your favorite facial mask and why?"

In all honesty, I've had the opportunity to use a variety of facial masks that have worked well for me (I have combination skin), and what's really most important when selecting a mask is knowing your skin type. Generally, there are two types of masks - setting masks and non-setting masks. Setting masks, which normally use clay as their base - harden, dry, absorb oil and remove dead skin cells. They're recommended for oily, combination and acneic skin types.

Non-setting masks should be used on normal, dry or sensitive skin and are primarily nourishing, hydrating and soothing. An example of a non-setting mask would be a gel mask. Benefits of masks include some of the following:

- Tighten and tone the skin
- Draw impurities out of the pores
- Assist in clearing of blemishes
- Hydrate & nourish the skin
- Calm & soothe the skin

And to further answer your question - know that I'm not brand loyal and that I personally use a combination of both mask types. I use a setting mask on my oily t-zone and a non-setting mask everywhere else. So there you have it!

I hope this helps. Please stop back by and let us know how you choose to move forward, as well as what works for you. 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......

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.

Read More......

Ask Mischo Beauty...

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

"So I heard that if you're in a crunch and have run out of facial cleanser you can use extra virgin olive oil as a facial cleanser. Is this true? I would think that using an oil to cleanse your face could potentially clog your pores but I am aware of the moisturizing qualities of extra virgin olive oil as well..."

While I don't use this method, I have heard that others love it and swear by it. I think the key is knowing your skin type and skin conditions and using products specifically formulated for it. So if extra virgin olive oil works for you, then use it. And, if you don't have a consistent skincare regimen, there's no better time than now to get started.

Now with that said , the most important step in a skincare regimen, in my opinion, is cleansing. It really is the foundation for healthy skin because it removes makeup, dirt, oil and dead skin cells. And again, my best suggestion is to cleanse your skin with a cleanser specifically formulated for your skin type and skin conditions both morning and night- and be sure to continue on with the remainder of your skincare regimen.

I hope this helps. Please stop back by and let us know how you decide to move forward! And as always, please feel free to send me any additional questions you might have. Love your skin.

If you have beauty questions you'd like answered, please send them to mischobeauty@gmail.com.

Read More......

Mischo Beauty Pick: Sulwhasoo Skincare

It was announced last summer that Sulwhasoo had opened a boutique on the beauty level at Bergdorf Goodman. Now if you haven't been to the beauty level of Bergdorf's- you are missing out! This particular collection of products peaked my curiosity when I learned that they were considered "medicinal herbal skincare" because they're formulated with a blend of specially selected medicinal herbs meant to promote healthy skin from within. They're also one of the oldest and best selling skincare brands in Korea.

So based on that information and the words "healthy skin" (the goal of a successful skincare regimen should always be healthy skin that glows) I knew I had to try the line! And because I liked the products I've tried so much, I called Bergdorf's to learn more. I was told that Sulwhasoo offers complimentary 1 hour facials (no extractions), custom to individual skin types/conditions. I love it and can't wait to book my appointment!

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

Read More......

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.

Read More......

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......

Read More......

Ask Mischo Beauty...

This week's question comes from my sister, Allison, who asked the following:

"What's your favorite facial mask and why?"

In all honesty, I've had the opportunity to use a variety of facial masks that have worked well for me (I have combination skin), and what's really most important when selecting a mask is knowing your skin type. Generally, there are two types of masks - setting masks and non-setting masks. Setting masks, which normally use clay as their base - harden, dry, absorb oil and remove dead skin cells. They're recommended for oily, combination and acneic skin types.

Non-setting masks should be used on normal, dry or sensitive skin and are primarily nourishing, hydrating and soothing. An example of a non-setting mask would be a gel mask. Benefits of masks include some of the following:

- Tighten and tone the skin
- Draw impurities out of the pores
- Assist in clearing of blemishes
- Hydrate & nourish the skin
- Calm & soothe the skin

And to further answer your question - know that I'm not brand loyal and that I personally use a combination of both mask types. I use a setting mask on my oily t-zone and a non-setting mask everywhere else. So there you have it!

I hope this helps. Please stop back by and let us know how you choose to move forward, as well as what works for you. Love your skin.

Read More......

Mischo Beauty Pick: Supermodels by Nude Skincare

It's not what you think! The "Supermodels" are actually the very best of Nude Skincare's top selling cult favorites which are packaged together in a kit to "transform and revitalize" your skin - if used consistently. The set includes:

- Cleansing Facial Oil
- Moisturizing Body Cream
- Advanced Eye Complex
- Age Defence Moisturizer
- Replenishing Night Oil
- Miracle Mask

Now can I just tell you how much I'm loving this kit? I've finally gotten a chance to use it consistently for the past few weeks and I've used the Cleansing Facial Oil, Advanced Eye Cream and Replenishing Night Oil down to the very last drop! This kit, along with the Advanced Cellular Renewal Serum (yes, I believe in serums!) have all given me life! It's kept my skin clear and I love waking up looking refreshed (thanks to the Replenishing Night Oil) - even when I've only had a few hours of sleep! You all know I swear by consistent skincare regimens because how else will you ever see the results you desire?

Knowing your skin type and using products specific to it, really are the key! If you're wanting to start a regimen or are curious about Nude Skincare, then the Supermodel kit is a great introduction to their best products and possibly a wonderful start to mastering a consistent skincare regimen.

Have you tried Nude Skincare?

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 Pick: Caudalie Vinosource Quenching Sorbet-Crème

Because I loved the Caudalie skincare regimen so much, I thought I'd introduce you to their Vinosource Quenching Sorbet-Creme. It's recommended for those of you with skin conditions such as "dehydration", and also for those of you with easily sensitized skin. Fall is here and winter is around the corner, so don't forget to adjust your skincare regimen as needed!

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

Read More......

Mischo Beauty School: Facial Masks 101

After tweeting last Sunday about my mini-facial regimen, I received quite a few emails requesting recommendations of a good mask. But, before I suggest a mask, I always need to know your skin type because generally there are two types of masks I recommend: setting & non-setting masks.

Setting masks, which normally use clay as their base- harden, dry, absorb oil and remove dead skin cells. Non-setting masks can be used for normal, dry or sensitive skin and are primarily nourishing, hydrating and soothing.

Benefits of masks include some of the following:

1. Tighten and tone the skin
2. Draw impurities out of the pores
3. Assist in clearing of blemishes
4. Hydrate & nourish the skin
5. Calm & soothe the skin

I personally use a combination of both mask types. I use a setting mask on my oily t-zone and a non-setting mask everywhere else. So there you have it!

Please continue to email your 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.

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 Pick: Burt's Bees Radiance Facial Cleanser & Day Creme

So if you're a frequent visitor to my blog, you know how passionate I am about sharing everything I've learned about haircare and skincare (my passions!). I mean, the ultimate goal is to have healthy hair and skin, right? And so I'm still so excited about the advanced skin care class I told you all about yesterday, that when I started to examine Burt's Bees Radiance Facial Cleanser and Day Creme I immediately applied what I'd learned.

But, from a consumer point of view, you're probably wondering what the products' target skin type might be. There's nothing on the label to indicate a specific skin type, but after reading the product description (which included "gentle", "cell turnover" and "brighter and younger-looking") and the ingredient list (Royal Jelly, Jojoba Beads and Fruit Acid Complex) it's apparent these would be great for normal, dry and possibly sensitive skin types. And if you're trying to correct skin conditions such as dehydration, premature aging or any skin sensitivities, then you need to add these to your list of products to check out!

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

Read More......

Mischo Beauty: Ole Henriksen's Dry/Sensitive Skin Starter Kit

I love investing in myself! My focus last week (please accept my apologies for the unexpected blogging vacation!) was on a class I was taking at the International Dermal Institute called "International Skin Care Techniques". The class focus was on analyzing various skin types/conditions and then designing customized treatments. There was tons of theory to learn and of course, my favorite part, practical application techniques and routines to master! The class was amazing and the instructor was PHENOMENAL!

And so with that said, those of you with a dry and or sensitive skin type should check out Ole Henriksen's Dry/Sensitive Skin Starter Kit. As I've said many times before, the most important step in a successful skincare regimen is knowing your skin type and then using products specifically formulated to treat it! I love this kit because it includes:

- Apricot Cleansing Lotion
- Balancing Cucumber Tonic
- Skin Insulator SPF 15
- Nurture Me
- Blue/Black Berry Enzyme Mask
- New Beginning Scrub

So you see, you have everything you need to get started and be consistent with your skincare regimen- AND you have all the products you need to begin treating yourself to mini-facials at home. Don't you love it?!

Also, the winner of the Motions Hair Care Giveaway is:

- danabrown18

Please email me your mailing address. Thanks to everyone for entering!

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

Read More......

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.

Read More......

Mischo Beauty School: Facial Masks 101

After last week's post on exfoliation, I received quite a few emails requesting a recommendation of a good mask. Before I suggest a mask, I need to know your skin type because generally there are two types of masks I recommend: setting & non-setting masks. Setting masks, which normally use clay as their base, harden and dry and absorb oil and remove dead skin cells. Non-setting masks can be used for normal, dry or sensitive skin and are primarily nourishing, moisturizing and soothing.

Benefits of masks include some of the following:

1. Tighten and tone the skin
2. Draw impurities out of the pores
3. Assist in clearing of blemishes
4. Hydrate & nourish the skin
5. Calm & soothe the skin

I personally use a combination of both mask types. I use a setting mask on my oily t-zone and a non-setting mask everywhere else.

Any questions? Love your skin.

Read More......

Mischo Beauty Pick: Erno Laszlo Sea Mud Soap

So the most important step in your skincare regimen is properly cleansing your skin - yes, I've said it here and here, and I'll probably say it a million more times. Clean skin = Healthy skin! Those of you with normal, combination, and oily skin types should consider Erno Laszlo's Sea Mud Soap.

The soap gently cleanses without stripping the skin of it's natural oils, so it won't dry your skin out. My skin type is normal, with an oily t-zone, and I felt that it did, indeed, thoroughly cleanse my skin. The soap is made with dead sea mud, which has many therapeutic benefits and could benefit those of you with problem skin.

If you decide to try it, be sure to use the "splashing techinque" and let me know your thoughts!

Read More......

Mischo Beauty Pick: Matte Perfection by Exuviance

By now you all know that I'm a huge advocate of healthy skin, at-home skincare regimens and knowing your skin type. The key to successfully selecting products which will work for you is knowing your skin type/issues upfront. With that said, those of you with oily skin will want to check out Exuviance's Matte Perfection.

It's an oil-free gel that works to absorb excess oil and minimize the appearance of pores. I love it's ease of use- it's lightweight formula is quickly absorbed into the skin and it can be worn over or under your moisturizer, under makeup as a primer, or over makeup for a matte finish.

So, not only does it work to control excess oil, but it also contains anti-aging ingredients, such as polyhydroxy acid which works to prevent/decrease fine lines and wrinkles, while working to improve uneven pigmentation, enlarged pores and roughness.

Have you tried Exuviance products? If you have oily skin, what are you currently using to control the oil?

Read More......