Mischo Beauty Closet: Dior Vernis "Nude Chic" Nail Polish + Jimmy Choo's Platform Crisscross Sandals
Beautiful hair needs an expert: Kerastase Noctogenist
Both are formulated with vitamin E, which provides protection and moisture; and amino acids, which help to strengthen and revive the hair. In case you didn't know, hair is 91% protein and protein is made up of amino acids! The best part of the Noctogenist line is that, according to the Kerastase website, it leaves no residue on pillows! I recommend this for the jet-setting Sienna Miller and I recommend it for you too!
What's your favorite Kerastase product?
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Mischo Beauty Extra: Dashing Diva's "The Manhattan Collection" Nail Polish
By now, you all know I'm a fan of Dashing Diva nail polishes. After blogging about them here, I couldn't wait to try the newly launched "Manhattan Collection". The collection includes "The Red Carpet", "East Village", "NYPD Blue" and "Central Park After Dark". In the first photo above, from left to right, are "Central Park After Dark", "The Red Carpet" and "Golden Opportunity" which was one of two holidays shades released this past December.
While I loved the bottle colors of those I tried above, I have to admit that "Golden Opportunity" didn't work for my skintone. All were easy to apply- just two coats, except I used three coats of "Central Park After Dark" to achieve my desired finished look.
So let me know what you think! Favorites?
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Mischo Beauty Pick: CoverBlend by Exuviance
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?
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Mischo Beauty Alert: Bliss Spa is coming to DC!
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 Award: 2009 SAG Awards
Who was your favorite? Read More......
Mischo Beauty School: Hair Relaxers 101
I've recently received a few questions on the difference between "lye" and "no lye" relaxers, so I've decided to answer the questions in a blog post. So, let's understand the difference between "lye" and "no lye" relaxers. In general, relaxers break certain chemical bonds in the hair so that they aren't able to reform. This simply means that hair that was once curly, is now permanently straightened.
Certain relaxers use a chemical called "lye" to break the bonds in the hair. "Lye" is a very strong chemical base that will burn your skin and damage your hair if not used correctly. With "no lye" relaxers, another chemical is used in the place of lye and is considered a medium strength base. Research has shown that the use of "no lye" relaxers results in less scalp irritation, but the same safety rules apply. Both types of relaxers will burn your scalp if used incorrectly and it's wrong to assume that compared to "lye" relaxers, "no lye" relaxers take the worry out of straightening your hair. Both types of relaxers contain caustic chemicals.
If you choose to apply your own relaxer, please ask for help! I'll say that again- if you choose to apply your own relaxer, ask for help! You aren't able to see and reach the top and back of your hair and this could lead to an improper application of the relaxer. Also, making sure that the relaxer is thoroughly rinsed can be a challenge. Relaxers should be used according to the manufacturer's directions, left on no longer than the suggested time, carefully washed out with neutralizing shampoo, and followed up with regular conditioning.
Any questions? I'd love to hear your relaxer stories! Love your hair.
Beautiful hair needs an expert: Mason Pearson Hairbrush
So today's expert is Ted Gibson, hairstylist to the stars and owner of the Ted Gibson Salon in New York. He recommends handmade Mason Pearson brushes as necessary tools for maintaining healthy hair. They stimulate the scalp and spread the hair's natural oils from roots to ends.
I own the "Detangler" with nylon tufts in white/ivory, which is recommended for very thick hair and as a detangler for wet hair. This was an investment- I know my hair is totally worth it- and I think it's a must in maintaining the health of Nia Long's hair!
Do you own a Mason Pearson brush? If so, do you recommend it?
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I own the "Detangler" with nylon tufts in white/ivory, which is recommended for very thick hair and as a detangler for wet hair. This was an investment- I know my hair is totally worth it- and I think it's a must in maintaining the health of Nia Long's hair!
Do you own a Mason Pearson brush? If so, do you recommend it?
Mischo Beauty Closet: Dashing Diva's "Golden Opportunity" Nail Polish + Gucci's Lucy Python Suede Sandals
Mischo Beauty Review: Sedu Revolution Nano Tourmaline Ionic 1" Styling Iron
After training with Vidal Sassoon, I learned that the key to a successfully flat ironing the hair is to first section the hair for organization, and then flat iron sections no thicker than 1/2 inch (if not smaller, depending on the texture of your hair). I used the highest temperature setting on my natural hair, due to the fact that it's coarse and tightly coiled. Shiny, silky, and soft hair was the end result for me- and yes, I was very pleased.
A few other facts about the Sedu that I love are:
- The Sedu comes with a heatproof mat (I often style my hair on the go, so the mat makes
traveling with the Sedu easy!)
- The adjustable temperature control allows me to set the temperature based on my hair's
texture (in case I decide to relax my hair) and needs
- The Nano Tourmaline plates ensure an even distribution of heat and a smooth finish
- The curved edges of the plates allow for easy curling of your hair, and the Sedu comes with an
instruction DVD with easy to follow steps for achieving curls, waves, etc.
Oh, and I love the packaging (very sleek and chic), which made me excited about trying what was inside. Overall, the Sedu is a winner and I recommend it!
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Mischo Beauty Review: L'Oreal RevitaLift Radiant Smoothing Cream Cleanser
Thought it's a creamy cleanser, it also contains micro beads which exfoliate dead skin cells. Your skin is left soft, smooth and thoroughly cleansed! It also contains Vitamin C, which as most of you already know, is a very important anti-aging nutrient. Normally, creamy cleansers are recommended for very dry and mature skin types, but after reading the manufacturer's directions, I realized it's suggested for all skin types.
I personally would only use this during the dry, cold winter months- and I'd probably only use it two, maybe three times a week. It's a little heavy for my skin type (normal with an oily t-zone), but I do appreciate it's effectiveness. Oh, and because it's thicker than most cleansers, I'd recommend following it with a toner (for your skin type) to ensure there's no residue left behind and to restore the skin's natural pH.
Have you tried this cleanser?
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Mischo Beauty Extra: CHANEL's "Vendetta" Nail Polish
So I'm finally wearing Chanel's "Vendetta" nail polish, which is part of Chanel's Spring 2009 makeup collection. It was love at first sight when I saw the bottle on the counter, and I actually bought it without trying it on.
Now the color in the bottle is a deep, dark shimmery purple with a slight iridescent feel to it. On my nails, the color looks so chic- and I used two coats to achieve my finished look. I love the color and highly suggest it be worn on short, manicured nails. Oh, and don't forget your base coat- it'll prevent nail polish stains!
Do you love it?
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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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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!
Mischo Beauty: NARS Spring 2009 Collection
Blush Duo:
Hungry Heart
Duo Concealer:
Vanilla/Honey
Custard/Ginger
Praline/Toffee
Duo Eyeshadow:
Egea
Hula Hula
Single Eyeshadow:
Baby Girl
Grenadines
Night Sun
Multiple Duo:
Orgasm/South Beach
Multiple Bronzer:
Cap Vert
Lip Gloss:
Sweet Revenge
Lipstick:
Shrinagar
My picks include the Sweet Revenge lip gloss, Orgasm/South Beach multiple duo and the Hungry Heart blush duo.
What are yours!
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Mischo Beauty School: Eyelash/Eyebrow Tinting 101
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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Because You're Worth It!: Kiyah Wright & Warren-Tricomi Salon
For those of you wanting to reinvent your look or just wanting a fabulous cut or color, you need to get booked with celebrity hairstylist, Kiyah Wright! Her work has been featured in Vogue, Essence, Elle and Glamour, and she's responsible for the looks of the biggest stars!
Simply put, her work is AMAZING! You can now book an appointment with her at the Warren Tricomi Salon in LA, and you should because you're worth it!
Have you had services at a Warren Tricomi Salon? If you were the winner of a makeover, what would you choose to have done?
Simply put, her work is AMAZING! You can now book an appointment with her at the Warren Tricomi Salon in LA, and you should because you're worth it!
Have you had services at a Warren Tricomi Salon? If you were the winner of a makeover, what would you choose to have done?
Beautiful hair needs an expert: Rene Furterer Complexe 5 Regenerating Extract
For Beyonce's color-treated hair, I'd recommend the Complexe 5 Regenerating Extract which is a pre-shampoo treatment. It's a blend of essential oils which work together to stimulate and invigorate the scalp, prior to shampooing. This ultimately prepares the scalp for ultimate penetration of the shampoo and conditioning treatments, leaving both the scalp and hair revitalized, strong and healthy.
Pair this treatment with a scalp massage and you're in heaven. I know because I've both had and preformed the service!
Are you using a pre-shampoo treatment you love? Do tell!
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Mischo Beauty: Barbie Loves Stila
"Barbie, now celebrating her 50th birthday, is getting a new Stila color cosmetics line this spring, and the makeup company also will serve as the cosmetics sponsor for Mattel's first Barbie runway show during New York Fashion Week next month.
The collection features four Decades of Beauty cans, each $40, with a booklet inside describing the beauty and fashion wardrobes for each doll.
Foxy Doll:
Depicts the African-American Barbie launched in 1980, includes a Lip Glaze called Foxy, mascara and a compact with two eye shadows and a cheek color.
#1 Ponytail Doll:
Celebrates the first Barbie, launched in 1959. It includes a red lipstick called Ponytail, a liquid eyeliner and a three-pan paper-wrapped compact with two eye shadows and a cheek color.
Malibu Barbie:
Highlights the doll of the same name that launched in 1971, has a pale pink Lip Glaze called Malibu, a black mascara and a compact with two eye shadows and a bronzer.
Jewel Doll:
Based on the 2000 Barbie of the same name and includes a bright pink Lip Glaze called Jewel, a Multi-Effect mascara and a compact with two eye shadows and a cheek color."
I have no confirmed date of availability, but apparently the collection became available today at Sephora. Are you a Barbie lover/collector, and is this something you'd purchase? I'd love to hear your thoughts!
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Mischo Beauty School: Microdermabrasion 101
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?
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Mischo Beauty Award: 2009 Golden Globes
Her makeup was flawless, skin was glowing and her nails perfectly manicured (and she wore the shade I'm wearing today!). Her vintage Galanos dress was complemented with the most fabulous Christian Louboutin Multi-Buckle Sandals. Loved it!
Who was your favorite?
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Mischo Beauty Extra: Lippmann Collection's "Fade To Black" Nail Polish
I'm loving Lippmann Collection's "Fade To Black", which is part of the Fall 2008 collection. It's a rich, deep, black creme color that made it's debut on the runway during Fashion Week at Zac Posen's show. After two coats, the color is an exact match for the bottle color. It contains biotin and green tea to strengthen nails - and it's free of formaldehyde, toluene and dibutyl phthalate (DBP). So what do you think?
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Mischo Beauty Closet: Lippmann Collection's "Fade to Black" Nail Polish + Nicholas Kirkwood Black Shoe Boot
