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.

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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.

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Mischo Beauty School: Eye Creams 101

I receive emails pretty frequently regarding the use of eye creams and they're usually concerning the following issues:

- Anti-aging
- Dark Circles
- Wrinkles
- Puffiness

Now in addressing the concerns above, I have to tell you that I'm a believer in taking care of oneself internally first, therefore reaping the benefits externally. So don't ever count out the invaluable benefits of adequate sleep, a diet rich in leafy greens, a multivitamin, and water- all of which I've discussed before.

If you're searching for a targeted treatment to address any of the concerns above- I'll share with you my best advice I've been giving out since starting this blog- and it is:

"Buy products formulated for your specific skin type/need/issue."

We all know that every brand makes an eye cream, so what I will suggest is that you start using the eye cream you choose consistently in order to really see/know if it works! Finding what works for you involves trial and error and consistent use for a minimum of 30 days (in my opinion).

Remember, for best results, eye creams should be applied to cleansed skin both morning and night, using your ring finger (the skin under the eye area is the thinnest skin on the body, which means you should use your weakest finger to apply product to that delicate area) before applying other products.

If there is an eye cream you're in love with, then let me know what it is and why!

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Mischo Beauty Loves Clarisonic Opal

I've mentioned my love for the Clarisonic Skincare Brush like a million times, so it's only natural that I share with you all how much I'm loving the Clarisonic Opal. It's a new beauty tool by Clarisonic that uses the "sonic technology" to infuse it's anti-aging sea serum into the skin. It's great for those with fine lines and wrinkles around the eye area - whatever the age, whatever the reason! And for those of you with great skin- well, it's a must-have prevention tool (think hydration and nourishment). I use this a few times a week and it's now a part of my weekly mini-facial regimen. Love it!

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

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Ask Mischo Beauty...

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

"After reading your blog for over a year now, I've finally made the decision to invest in a serious skincare regimen. But, there are so many steps and products to buy! Do I really need to purchase a toner?"

Thank you so much for your support! I really, really appreciate it! Now I'm biased (I'm a licensed esthetician), so yes, I do recommend you purchase one and here's why. I believe that toners are a necessary step in a skincare regimen. And just to clarify - toners, fresheners and astringents are all essentially the same type of product. But, it is important to note that the products do have different properties and vary by strength and alcohol content.

Most often these liquids are used after cleansing, just before a moisturizer is applied. If using during a mini-facial, for instance, then multiple applications are required. Toners are applied by using a cotton ball/pad or by spraying directly onto the skin. Most fall into the following categories below:

- Fresheners: Beneficial for dry, mature and sensitive skin. Often have the lowest to no alcohol content.

- Toners: Beneficial for normal and combination skin. Very low alcohol content; tones or tightens the skin.

- Astringents: Beneficial for oily and acneic skin. Higher alcohol content; helps remove excess oil on the skin, but can be too drying and may cause more harm than good.

So, here are the benefits:

- Removes residue left behind by cleansers.
- Restores the skin's natural pH after cleansing or other treatments.
- Prepares the skin for increased product absorption.
- May improve certain skin conditions (some toners contain
vitamins/antioxidants, etc.).

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

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

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Mischo Beauty School: Peels 101

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

Well, the process of removing the excess accumulation of dead skin cells from the outer most layer of skin (epidermis) is referred to as superficial peeling or exfoliation. It can be accomplished mechanically (microdermabrasion), manually (scrubs), or chemically- which is the category that includes "peels".

Peels used by estheticians are designed to penetrate only the epidermis and are noninvasive/nonaggressive. "Deeper peels" which are those used by physicians (dermatologists) penetrate deeper into the skin (dermal layer - also called living tissue - which sits below the epidermis) and may use chemicals such as glycolic acid (50% or more).

So, now that we know that peels are a form of chemical exfoliation, here are a few of the many benefits:

1. Improves skin texture, hydration & moisture retention
2. Increases the rate of cell turnover
3. Improves elastin & collagen production
4. Reduces fine lines, wrinkles and pigmentation issues
5. May control skin conditions such as acne, hyperpigmentation & eczema

So you're probably wondering if you're a candidate for a peel? Well, in my professional opinion, if you could benefit from any of those listed above, then you're definitely a candidate for a peel administered by an esthetician. If exfoliation is a normal part of your skincare regimen, then a professional peel treatment, no more than once a month, should be sufficient.

Now, are you a candidate for a "deeper peel"? Possibly. After a thorough consultation/skin analysis, a dermatologist would best advise you. Please feel free to email me with any questions! Love your skin.

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Do you mix and match skincare brands?

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

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

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Mischo Beauty Pick: Sulwhasoo Skincare

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

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

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

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Mischo Beauty 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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Mischo Beauty School: Eye Creams 101

I receive emails pretty frequently regarding the use of eye creams and they're usually concerning the following issues:

- Anti-aging
- Dark Circles
- Wrinkles
- Puffiness

Now in addressing the concerns above, I have to tell you that I'm a believer in taking care of oneself internally first, therefore reaping the benefits externally. So don't ever count out the invaluable benefits of adequate sleep, a diet rich in leafy greens, a multivitamin, and water- all of which I've discussed before.

If you're searching for a targeted treatment to address any of the concerns above- I'll share with you my best advice I've been giving out since starting this blog- and it is:

"Buy products formulated for your specific skin type/need/issue."

We all know that every brand makes an eye cream, so what I will suggest is that you start using the eye cream you choose consistently in order to really see/know if it works! Finding what works for you involves trial and error and consistent use for a minimum of 30 days (in my opinion).

Remember, for best results, eye creams should be applied to cleansed skin both morning and night, using your ring finger (the skin under the eye area is the thinnest skin on the body, which means you should use your weakest finger to apply product to that delicate area) before applying other products.

If there is an eye cream you're in love with, then let me know what it is and why!

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Ask Mischo Beauty...

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

"I'm in desperate need of an eye cream! I currently use products by Dermalogica and SkinCeuticals. I'm tired of walking around with dark bags under my eyes, looking like a tired, old woman. Help!"

Well, first and foremost, we need to figure out why you have dark circles/bags under your eyes to begin with! The cause could be a number of reasons such as - lack of sleep, stress, poor diet or allergies- just to name a few. There could be something you change internally, that could very well solve the problem.

Now when it comes to product recommendations, I'm not brand loyal. I am happy to hear that you've found products that work for you and because that's the case, I would encourage you to try an eye cream within those product lines first. The reason being, is that products within a line are specifically formulated to work with one another- so start there first! And, it is true that not every product within a product line will work for you.

If you have to search for an eye cream outside of the product lines you're currently using, then my advice is to buy products formulated for your specific skin type/need/issue. So, search for an eye cream formulated to target dark circles under the eyes. Also, please keep in mind that finding what works for you involves trial and error, and CONSISTENT use for a minimum of 30 days (in my opinion).

Remember, for best results, eye creams should be applied to cleansed skin both morning and night using your ring finger before applying other products. The skin under the eye area is the thinnest skin on the body, which means you should use your weakest finger (ring finger) to apply product to that delicate area. I hope this helps. Please stop back by and let us know how it's going!

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

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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?

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Mischo Beauty School: Serums 101

After using Nude Skincare's Advanced Cellular Renewal Serum for the past few weeks and loving it, I thought it would only be appropriate to remind you of the many benefits of serums. And yes, you really should consider incorporating one into your skincare regimen!

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 a serum? Well, I would suggest following a consistent 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! Please feel free to e-mail me with questions! Love your skin.

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Mischo Beauty Alert: LIERAC Paris Skincare & NewBeauty Magazine Present “Advances in Cosmetic Medicine”

Because you all clearly know how much I love skincare - I thought I'd share this event with you. If you decide to attend, please stop back by and let us know your thoughts! Enjoy.

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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.

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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.

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Mischo Beauty: Mini-Facials with Caudalie Skincare

After reviewing Caudalie's Pulpe Vitaminee Eye and Lip Cream about 3 years ago, I was definitely interested in exploring a full regimen of the skincare line specific to my skin type/issues. Well, the opportunity recently presented itself and I've been using a few products from the "oily skin" regimen both morning and night and during my mini-facials.

I used the Instant Foaming Cleanser (which feels like a mousse and is suggested for all skin types) both morning & night, with no issues. I will tell you though, that I felt I needed to use it along with my Clarisonic skincare brush just to ensure all makeup, dirt and oil was removed. My favorite of the products I was given to try was the Purifying Mask! Now I have combination skin, so normally I'd use a setting mask, such as this, only on my oily t-zone. But because (well, until now) the weather has been so hot and humid, my skin has been especially oily and so I used it all over. Can I just tell you that after each use, my skin felt BRAND NEW! This mask is a winner!

The combination of essentials oils in the Purifying Concentrate were great for helping me get to sleep at night, but I can't say that I noticed much of a difference with the excess oil build-up. I must also add that I used my own toner, exfoliant, eye cream and moisturizer with these products in order to complete my regimen.

Would love to know if you've tried products from the Caudalie skincare collection. And if so, what are your thoughts?

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

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Mischo Beauty: Mini-Facials with DERMAdoctor Skin Care

I've been tweeting for the past couple of weeks about using a regimen of Dermadoctor skin care products during my mini-facials, and I'm finally ready to share the results with you! And just to refresh your memory, my mini-facial steps are very easy- and you will benefit from making them a part of your skincare routine. So the steps are simply:

- Cleanse
- Tone
- Steam Treatment
- Exfoliate
- Tone
- Mask
- Tone
- Apply eye cream & serum
- Apply moisturizer

I used an anti-aging regimen of Dermadoctor products which consisted of:

- Wrinkle Revenge 1 (cleanser)
- Physical Chemistry (exfoliant)
- Wrinkle Revenge Rescue & Protect Eye Balm (eye cream)
- Litmus Test (moisturizer)

I also added the following:

- Clarisonic Skincare Brush
- Dermalogica Multi-Active Toner
- Dermalogica Skin Hydrating Masque

Now I opted not to add a steam treatment to this regimen because of it being exfoliant-heavy (the cleanser acted as a gentle exfoliant, and the exfoliant itself was a combination of a peel and microdermabrasion treatment!), and I didn't want to over-stimulate my skin. The "less is more" rule applies here!

I used this complete regimen every Sunday evening for a month and my results were exactly what I'd hoped for- radiant skin each time! This regimen is rich in glycolic acid (exfoliating) and antioxidants (repairing & protecting), so it works for a variety of skin types and issues. But, my best advice is always to buy for your particular skin type and conditions. Search for a regimen that works for you, and when you find it- use it consistently and you should experience results similar to mine!

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: 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.

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