Mischo Beauty Must-Have: YSL GLOSS PUR (2 New Shades!)

I'm a little late with this post, but I had to alert those of you who are always on the search for sparkle-free lip glosses (it seems that most lip glosses have some sort of sparkle or shimmer in them these days- am I right?)- this is especially for my reader, Andrea!

Yves Saint Laurent has launched two new shades to add to their collection of Gloss Pur Pure Lip Glosses - #47 Pure Peach & #48 Pure Petal, both perfect for summer. All of the glosses in this collection are sparkle-free and you can view them here.

Love the colors? What are your picks?

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Mischo Beauty Loves Yves Saint Laurent 2009 Fall Makeup Collection

I'm officially calling myself a "YSL Beauty Girl" because as you all know by now, I'm a huge fan of just about everything they create. Their fall makeup collection will be available beginning August and is described as:

"Elegant, Mysterious, Sensual. Inspired by the YSL Fall RTW Fashion collection of exquisite tailoring with sumptuous textures, a flawless complexion is offset by magnetic pearl grey eyes and intense plum lips."

My picks include the La Laque Long Lasting Nail Lacquer in #39 Stormy Grey & #40 Extreme Purple, Creme De Blush Cream Blush in #1 Velvety Peach and #2 Powdery Rose, Volume Effect Faux Cils in #8 Sublime Grey and the list goes on!

Visit www.yslbeautyus.com to view the entire collection.

What are your picks?

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Mischo Beauty Loves Eau Thermale Avène (Avene Thermal Spring Water)

For those of you with sensitive skin, you'll definitely want to check out Eau Thermale Avène (Avene Thermal Spring Water) which calms, soothes and softens skin. It contains essential elements such as iron, copper, zinc, fluorine and manganese which together leaves a soothing barrier over the skin. It's recommended for those who suffer from inflammation/redness, eczema, allergic reactions (burning, stinging, itching, etc.) and many more skin issues.

It's hypoallergenic, free of preservatives and packaged at the spring in France (in a sterile environment). I've been using it as a toner, after cleansing, to ensure I've thoroughly removed all residue, and to help bring my skin's pH back to normal. I've found it to be very light and refreshing- definitely a welcomed addition to my skincare regimen!

Has anyone else tried it?

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Mischo Beauty: Rene Furterer's MYRRHEA Collection

Rene Furterer products were introduced to me during one of my apprenticeships and I fell in love with the Okara 2 Phases No Rinse Conditioner (great for color-treated hair), Complexe 5 Regenerating Extract (pre-shampoo treatment), and the complete Karite regimen of products (for very dry scalp/hair). With that said, naturally I was excited about trying the newest launch of the Myrrhea regimen of products (Silkening Shampoo, Silkening Mask and No Rinse Silkening Fluid).

Now I personally don't consider my type 4B/C hair to be "unruly and rebellious". It's simply thick and tightly coiled- and needs tons of TLC. But, I know that when it comes to describing or characterizing type 4B/C hair, the haircare industry would include my hair type in that category.

At any rate, the shampoo and mask didn't soften, moisturize or detangle my hair as I had hoped it would. But, I do like the No Rinse Silkening Fluid, which I used as a leave-in/blow drying serum. It worked to detangle my hair, and left it soft and smooth after blow drying.

I'd love to hear your thoughts on this collection, especially if your hair type is different from mine!

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Mischo Beauty Pick: Tarte's celluFIGHT Self-Tanner & Sunburst Face Bronzing Facial Moisturizer

The two things that come to mind that I love about Tarte's celluFIGHT Natural Anti-Cellulite Self-Tanner would be the fact that it has a pleasant scent (no funky self-tanner smell!)- it's a green tea fragrance- and the color pay-off is very natural and doesn't streak. Now I was anxious to try it because of it's "anti-cellulite" benefits- you see it contains "skin invigorating ingredients" such as green tea leaf extract, algae extract and a "skinTIGHT complex".

Now most of you know that I've made exercising a part of my lifestyle, but who couldn't use a helping hand! I love that it makes my skin look healthy and toned, but I won't say that it's made the cellulite completely disappear. I've only been using it for about 3 weeks now, so I'll have to report back to you in another 5 weeks on the results.

I've also been using the Sunburst Face Beaded Bronzing Facial Moisturizer. I love the color pay-off of this product too! It contains mini bronzing beads that "burst on contact with skin". I love that it's oil-free and is quickly absorbed into my skin, but I wish it contained a sunscreen. I've been using it along with a moisturizer that contains a SPF.

Looks like I'm quickly becoming a "Tarte Girl", as you all know I love the Cheek Stain and the eyeQuatic Waterproof Summer Essentials Set is a must-have for the summer!

Any other Tarte Girls out there? Have you tried either product? Please let me know your thoughts!

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"Summer Hairstyles" & Giveaway on SheBreathes!

You're all invited to visit SheBreathes.com and check out my pick for a chic summer hairstyle that will hold up against the heat/humidity of summer! And we're still celebrating summer, so be sure to get entered to win the Soleil Collection of haircare products by Kerastase (I use them- have you seen my hair photos on my blog lately?)! They're FABULOUS products that will provide you with all the protection your hair needs this summer.

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Mischo Beauty Review: Lancome's Declaring Indigo Ink Artliner & Color Fever Gloss in Piha Black

Lancome's Fall 2009 Color Collection includes the Declaring Indigo Ink Artliner, which is a rich, velvety gel eyeliner that I've been wearing it on my upper lash lid as of late. I've received tons of compliments, but what I love the most is that it doesn't move once applied!

And I had to tell you all how much I'm loving the Color Fever Gloss in Piha Black! I'm a year late with this review, as it was originally released with the Color Fever Lipstick in Piha Red (the set was inspired by the signature Christian Louboutin pump), with the gloss meant to be worn over the lipstick. Lancome only released 500 sets of the lipstick/lip gloss and I'm not sure if either are still available for purchase.

At any rate, I've tested the gloss, layering it on top of a few red lipsticks of my own, and I love it! It's a "runway" look- definitely meant to be worn by the confident only!

Any thoughts on the eyeliner or lip gloss? Do share!

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Mischo Beauty Loves Lancome's Oscillation Mascara & Oscillation Powerbooster

I know I'm late with reviewing Lancome's Oscillation Mascara, but I must remind you all that I at least alerted you to the release a year ago here. I'd actually tried to order it from Lancome's website , and that ended up being, well let's just say I had issues with customer service and ended up canceling the order. So, I'm finally reviewing it now and I must tell you all that it was worth the wait!

It's a vibrating mascara with a reported 7000 oscillations per minute! You simply apply it like you would your regular mascara and the vibrating wand does all the work. It separates, lengthens and adds volume- and yes, I'm sold. Now in all fairness, I'm using it along with the Oscillation Powerbooster, which is A-MA-ZING.

You all already know I'm a huge fan of the Cils Booster XL, but I've set it to the side to make room for the Oscillation Powerbooster. It's a vibrating lash primer, and it's a must-have! It thickens, lengthens and volumizes- it perfectly prepares your lashes for the next step- mascara. My lashes have looked amazing since using the two together!

If you're using either or both, please let me know your thoughts!

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Mischo Beauty: Kissable Couture Le Fleur Collection

I've been a fan of AJ Crimson for a while now. I was so excited about the launch of Kissable Couture, and I've also covered the "First Kiss" and "Smooches" collections. Well he recently launched a new collection of lip glosses called the "Le Fleur" collection which includes Hyacinth (my favorite!), Peony and Rose Gardenia. All are beautiful and work with a wide range of complexions.

And for being a supporter of Mischo Beauty and Kissable Couture, all readers are being offered 30% off all purchases on www.kissablecouture.com. Simply enter in the MISCHO discount code at checkout.

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Mischo Beauty: L'Oreal Paris Extra Volume Collagen Waterproof Mascara

I can't believe I'm writing this, but I really think it's time for our long-time drugstore favorite mascara- L'Oreal's Voluminous- to take a step aside. You see, I've been testing L'Oreal's Extra Collagen Waterproof Mascara and I've been pleased with the results since day one! It contains hydra-collagen, which is supposed to plump lashes, therefore increasing overall volume.

Well, it certainly gives me my desired lash look- which is full, thick lashes and I love the plush lash brush! It retails for about $6.99 and is totally worth it. Go get it!

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Mischo Beauty: L'Oreal Paris Hip Color Presso Lip Gloss & Kohl Eyeliner

You all know how much I love Kerry Washington- well I'm sure after this post, and this post! Anyway, I believe that Kerry was the original face for L'Oreal's HIP collection, though after checking the website I now see that Beyonce is also a spokesmodel for the collection as well. At any rate I couldn't pass on the opportunity to try the new Color Presso Lip Gloss and Kohl Eyeliner.

After testing both out, I must let you know that the packing for both failed for me. The applicator tip of the Kohl Eyeliner is not "eye-friendly". It's too stiff/hard and doesn't give (we know how sensitive the eye area is) and I wasn't comfortable with applying it. After figuring out how to open the Color Presso Lip Gloss, I next needed to decide if it was meant to be applied with a brush, my fingers or if I was to place the applicator up to my lips. Naturally, I used a lip brush and I will say that the shades I tried- Swanky & Trendy- would work with almost every complexion.

As much as I love both Kerry and Beyonce, I'm not sure that I'd recommend either product due to the packaging design...

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Mischo Beauty: The Lancome Boutique & "“Best Friends Forever” Book Signing

The Lancome boutique hosted a book signing for Jennifer Weiner's new book "Best Friends Forever" and I couldn't pass on the opportunity to meet the author and check out the entire Lancome skincare and makeup collections all in one visit!

The event was held at Lancome's flagship boutique on New York's Upper West Side and was very well attended.

"Best Friends Forever" is Jennifer's seventh book, and this was her very first book signing for it. I later learned that it was most fitting, as Jennifer's favorite makeup products are Lancome's High Definicils Mascara and La Laque Fever Lipshine in Plum Wave.

Now you all know that I believe the secret to a flawless complexion is a consistent skincare regimen, so naturally I was drawn to check out all of Lancome's skincare options! Remember my GENIFIQUE giveaway?

As I chatted with Jennifer and browsed Lancome's offerings, all guests were treated to champagne and delicious mini-cupcakes.

I'm so excited about Lancome's launch of the Oscillation Powerbooster, which is a vibrating lash primer. I told you all how amazing the Cils Booster XL is, so I can only imagine the results from using the Oscillation Powerbooster... stay tuned for my review!

And I'm sure you all know by now that Arlenis Sosa is the new face for Lancome's La Laque Fever (she's on the cover of Vogue (Germany) May 2009- see my left column) and the shades included in the collection are beautiful!

The event was lovely! My very best wishes to Jennifer- and a very special "thank you" to Lancome for making me feel right at home!

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Mischo Beauty: Herbal Essences "Tousle Me Softly" Collection

Herbal Essences recently released their "Toulse Me Softly" collection of products which includes a shampoo, conditioner, mousse, spray gel, hairspray and finishing touch cream. And while I've been wearing a "tousled" look as of late, these products aren't for my hair type (4B/C). But, I do think they're perfect for those of you who can "shampoo & go" because you have a naturally curly or wavy hair texture.

I'd also recommend these products to those of you who dry your hair using a diffuser. The consistency/weight of the mousse is very light and should not weigh your hair down- and I'd use about a pea-size of the finishing touch cream just to smooth away flyaways or frizz.

The scent of the collection is a fusion of wild violet and pomegranate and I'd agree that the smell is luscious! For steps on how to achieve a variety of "tousled" looks, check out the videos over on www.herbalessences.com.

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Mischo Beauty: ChapStick True Shimmer

I'll be honest and tell you that I haven't picked up a tube of ChapStick in years! Recently I was asked to try ChapStick's latest offering- ChapStick True Shimmer in Tropical, Botanical Berry, Peppermint Rush and Blended Fruit Sherbert. And, the first thing I noticed was the fancy packaging- totally different from the solid colored tubes I'm remembering from back in the day.

Secondly, the scent of each tube is pretty amazing- actually dead on what it's described to be! The application is the same as I remembered- smooth and moisturizing, but with a very subtle hint of shine/shimmer. They're totally worth the price of $2.79- perfect for all of the recessionistas out there! View the entire collection at www.chapstick.com.

**L'Oreal Paris Limited-Edition Colour Riche Lipcolour Winner:**
Comment #24: Miss T

Please email your shipping information to me! Thanks to everyone for entering!

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Mischo Beauty: Zoya's "Layla" Nail Polish & Bikini Brunch at the Hotel Gansevoort

I mentioned on Twitter this morning that I refreshed my manicure/pedicure using Zoya's "Layla" (which I happened to win by following Zoya on Twitter!) and a few of you requested photos. You can see the color on my nails in the photo above, which was taken this afternoon while I was having brunch at the Hotel Gansevoort.

Zoya describes the nail color as a "hot bright deep pink cream", and I must tell you that I've been receiving compliments all week!

I enjoyed brunch, and the view of the city was amazing. I also toured the Gansevoort Exhale Spa (which I recommended to everyone about a year ago) and I can't wait to try the services.

Oh, and while I was in the Meatpacking District, I also toured Edris Salon (which I've also recommended several times. You might remember my mentioning, in the past, that Edris is Creative Director for hair for Tracy Reese every Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.

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Mischo Beauty: Skin Effects Continuous Action Spray Sunscreen SPF 45 with Dermaplex

By now, you all know how I feel about sun damage and protecting your skin from the sun. I've written about it here, here and here. Well, I'm always on a quest to learn more and I have even more information for you from Dr. Jeffrey Dover, Associate Clinical Professor of Dermatology at Yale University:

- Wear at least a SPF 15 when spending minimal time outside and SPF 30 or higher when outside for longer or if living in the south

- Only formulas labeled "broad spectrum" guard against both UVA and UVB rays

- High-quality sunscreens are only part of the equation, being fully protected also means re-applying often. Reapply every few hours you remain outside (apply more often after sweating or swimming)

- You should coat every exposed patch of skin with a thick layer of sunscreen- about once ounce (or a full shot glass) of sunscreen to cover your entire body

Dr. Dover recently launched his own sunscreen called Skin Effects Continuous Action Spray Sunscreen SPF 45 with Dermaplex, and it's recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation. It remains effective for up to 5 hours and is available at CVS. Now I love this one because it's a spray - it sprays on clear- and for those of you who have issues with sunscreens leaving a white film on your skin, or making you look "ashy"- then you'll definitely want to check this one out!

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Mischo Beauty: Jamar Labs 100% Natural Feet, Face and Hand Wipes

I was recently given the opportunity to try the "Wipe your hands", "Wipe your face", and "Wipe your feet" cleansing wipes by Jamar Labs. As most of you probably know by now, I've been constantly on the go and these are perfect for travel!

For day-to-day travel, I've been using the hand wipes which are non-drying, which I love. I recently had the opportunity to check out the Brooklyn Bridge and the Empire-Fulton Ferry State Parks, and after kicking off my sandals and lounging about in the parks for a few hours, the face and feet wipes proved perfect for a quick touch-up.

The wipes are free of parabens and are 100% biodegradable. They're available at www.jamarlabs.com.

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Mischo Beauty Still Loves Sam Fine

I'm sure you all know how much I love Sam Fine (he's been my "Makeup Artist of the Month" for just about every month- *smile* and see left-hand column) by now! Well, he recently released an instructional DVD called FINE: The Basics of Beauty. I can not wait to see the DVD- hopefully, it will be released soon! But, in the meantime, you're invited to check out Essence Magazine's coverage of the launch party which was held at the Warren-Tricomi Salon at The Plaza.

Now, if we could only get him to update his fabulous blog....*sigh*...

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Mischo Beauty Loves Serge Lutens Parfum

I love when I discover something that absolutely takes my breath away- and that's what happened when I recently sampled Nuit De Cellophane and Datura Noir by Serge Lutens.

The Datura Noir is formulated from the black datura, a night blooming tropical flower, and I'd best describe it as a sweet floral with a slight hint of musk. As soon as I smelled it on my skin, I knew I had to have it! But, I'm equally in love with the Nuit De Cellophane, which is more of a fruity floral with top notes of jasmine, osmanthus and lily.

And lucky for me, there was a gift with purchase which included a Felix Ray makeup bag filled with deluxe size samples.

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Mischo Beauty Giveaway: L’Oréal Paris Limited-Edition Colour Riche Lipcolour

You might remember L'Oreal Paris celebrating their 100th anniversary a few weeks ago, and in continuing the celebration, they've recently released a limited-edition Colour Riche Lipcolour. It's their best selling lip collection since 1983 and this edition's lid is covered with Swarovski crystals.

The lipstick is available in Mica, True Red (pictured above) and Tropical Coral. So here's how you can win! Leave a comment letting me know your color of choice and the name of a L'Oreal spokesmodel. The giveaway is open to U.S. residents only and unfortunately, I can no longer accept "Anonymous" comments. A winner will be chosen at random and announced on Monday, July 13th.

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