Isn't She Lovely...



I was passing through Union Station, right before Christmas, when I spotted Thandie Newton (I'm a fan!) on the cover of the December issue of Instyle magazine (UK). Covers such as this are few and far in between (has Thandie made the cover of Essence Magazine yet?) so I had to pick this up!

Anyway, for all of you beauty lovers, here's the team of beauty superstars who created her cover look:

Makeup: Jo Strettell for Cloutier Agency (all makeup by CHANEL)
Hair: Enzo Angileri for Cloutier Agency (using Moroccanoil <--- I've got to try this product!) Manicure: Cheryl Scruggs at Solo Artists
Stylist: Leslie Fremar at The Magnet Agency (assisted by Joni Kilmurry)
Photographer: Tony Duran at Creative 24

Love it?

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Mischo Beauty: My Sephora Visit...



I was recently gifted with a few Sephora gift cards, and you all know how much I HEART Sephora at this point, right? Well I have to tell you that a recent visit had me running for the store's doors! You see, I was in search of this concealer and this concealer, both by Make Up For Ever. And I can't begin to tell you how disgusting the display testers were (not these in particular)- let's just say major sanitation & disinfection issues! I even attempted to sample items over at the Yves Saint Laurent display, with no luck.

Believe me, I know it's probably hard to control testers left out to be freely sampled by the public, but the looks of those testers left me not wanting to step foot in the store again....

Ok, enough venting for today! But I do want to know your thoughts on testers left out for the general public. Please share!

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Mischo Beauty Pick: Naturally Fresh Deodorant Crystal



It's been a while since I've written about deodorants- kinda "TMI" right? Well, I'd been on the hunt for something natural- "free of aluminum, parabens and phthalates"- about a year or so ago, and happily settled on Tom's of Maine Natural Long-Lasting Deodorant Stick. Well most recently, I was given the opportunity to try Naturally Fresh's Roll-On & Spray Mist.

I'd always seen the brand in Whole Foods, with plans to try it, but never did... Well, I've been using it for a few weeks now and based on my normal day-to-day activities, it works for me and I do like the light scents. I haven't tested it while working out, so I won't comment on that. But if you're looking for a natural alternative, you should definitely consider it!

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

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Mischo Beautyliciousness...



I'm cutting my hair! Well, maybe... What do you all think of Halle's haircut? It's got me thinking "new year = new decade = new look = new haircut"! I love, love, love this look on Halle the best. I know it's not new- she's been wearing a pixie haircut off and on for years now. But, I guess this works for her best because it looks so chic and sexy!

Or, is it that it compliments the shape of her face (bringing more attention to it) and accentuates her flawless skin (I know she's wearing makeup, but she does have great skin!)...

What do you think? Love this look on her? Should I cut my hair? Tell me, tell me! LOL.

Photo Credit: WireImage

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Mischo Beauty: Jergens Sensitive Skin Relief



I thought I'd mention Jergen's recent launch of their Sensitive Skin Relief lotion due to the fact that I do receive emails from readers requesting recommendations for sensitive skin types. Now, I personally don't have sensitive skin- but my skin is easily sensitized (yes, there is a difference!) so I would fall into the category of skin types for which this lotion would be recommended. And in continuing to follow my best beauty advice of "buying for your skin type, needs, issues" - those of you with sensitive skin should check this out.

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 Loves Burt's Bees Polka Dot Mani Pedi Set



If you follow me on Twitter, then you know I tweeted the following beauty tip today: "Avoid cuticle clippers! They're natural protection against bacteria. Gently push them back & moisturize!" - and this leads me to mention the fact that I've been using the cutest little manicure set (pictured above) by Burt's Bees. I love it because it comes with a set of products that will leave both your hands and feet buttery smooth!

And, since I'm trying to educate you on taking care of your cuticles, I have to let you know that this set contains two cuticle sticks (for very gently pushing back your cuticles) and the very rich and moisturizing Lemon Butter Cuticle Cream (smells soooo good!). For tips on achieving that perfect at-home pedicure, you must check this out!

Also, I'd like to know if you allow your manicurist to trim your cuticles. And if so, have you ever suffered an infection because of it?

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 Wishes You a Beautiful Christmas and a Glamorous New Year!



Merry Christmas everyone! Thank you all so much for your support! I wish you peace, love and happiness during this holiday season.

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What's your vitamin/supplement regimen?



As I mentioned in a post earlier today, I don't like to rely on supplements for all of my nutritional needs. But, my diet isn't perfect and I refuse to allow my hair, skin and nails to suffer because of it! I am constantly working to improve my diet, and I know I'll get there! But, in the meantime, I'm assisted with the regimen below:

- Multivitamin
- Flax Seed Oil
- Fish Oil
- Borage Oil
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin B12
- Cod Liver Oil
- Veggie Greens
- Psyllium Husks

So my question for you today is: What's your vitamin/supplement regimen? What do you take and why?

*Mischo Beauty is a beauty blog for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. If you are in doubt, please seek the advice of your physician. Mischo Beauty is in no way responsible for the effects of posted information. If you choose to try these products, you do so at your own risk.

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Mischo Beauty: NeoCell & GNC Stores



I'd like to thank everyone who has joined my "A Healthy, Sexy & Beautiful 2010" challenge! I really enjoy reading your updates through Twitter, email and Facebook- so please keep them coming! Again, the goal is to motivate and encourage each other to take better care of ourselves- and so far, so good! And while we're on the subject of our health, I wanted to share with you a few new products by NeoCell that I've started taking- Hyaluronic Acid Blueberry Liquid, Collagen + C Pomegranate Liquid and Pomegranate From The Seed- all dietary supplements.

I won't make any health claims* about these products, because we all know that is entirely individual! What I will say is that I was attracted to these products because of the focus on hyaluronic acid (great for skin health), pomegranate (contains high levels of antioxidants) and collagen (benefits joints, tendons, bones, hair & skin). While I don't like to rely too heavily on supplements for my nutritional needs, I do think these are an option depending on your lifestyle.

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

*Mischo Beauty is a beauty blog for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. If you are in doubt, please seek the advice of your physician. Mischo Beauty is in no way responsible for the effects of posted information. If you choose to try these products, you do so at your own risk.*

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Mischo Beauty Pick: Lashes by Ja'Maal Buster - The Eyelash Guru To The Stars



A few months ago I tweeted about ordering lashes by Ja'Maal Buster, "Eyelash Guru To The Stars", and I did receive them- "Trophy Wife", "Gold Digger", "2nd Date Guaranteed" and "Daddy's Little Girl". Well I've finally gotten around to testing/reviewing them, and let me just tell you that they are FABULOUS (as you can see above)!

Application is simple- just remember these steps. Oh, and you will need to purchase your own lash adhesive/glue, because it's not provided. While I'm not planning to wear them to work (they'd be too much of a distraction), I am planning to wear them out every chance I get- as you can see why!

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Mischo Beauty Side Note: My Dream Salon (Part 2)



My apologies to everyone for the lack of posts this week! It's been hectic and I can't begin to tell you all how grateful I am that you are all hanging in there with me! Thank you! I wanted to share the above photo with you all because it completely took my breath away!

I stumbled upon it a few days ago while browsing Shu Uemura's Art of Hair. I'd blogged over a year ago about my dream salon looking like this- but the salon above, which is the Chris Chase Salon, has taken it's place! I'll be adding this photo to my vision board and will be stopping by for a tour so that I can see it up close and in person!

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Mischo Beauty Loves Shu Uemura Art of Hair's Essence Absolue



Those of you who've been following my blog for the past year or so already know how much I love the Shu Uemura Art of Hair product line. My best beauty advice is to always, always, always buy for your hair, skin and nail type/needs/issues, and so not only did I love the Shu Uemura haircare line after using it, but it includes a product for just about every need! And, of course I love that!

Shu Uemura's newest product, Essence Absolue, is multitasking - which is perfect in this economy! You can use it as a pre-poo/pre-shampoo treatment, blow drying serum, leave-in conditioner, hair polisher, add it to dry ends before bed, and the list goes on and on! It's key ingredient is "Camellia Oil"- which I've discussed before, and I love the light scent. The beauty lover/product junkie in me WILL be using this up to the very last drop, and definitely making hair cocktails with it!

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 Pick: Bath & Body Works PocketBac Deep Cleansing Hand Gel



I can't begin to tell you all how great it feels to NOT be sick! Seriously! I'd been sick for the past two weeks, as a few of you might have known from following me on Twitter. At any rate, I'm better, but the germaphobe in me was forced to take things up a notch with sanitizing and disinfecting just about everything! So when I was asked to try Bath & Body Works PocketBac deep cleansing hand gel, the timing could not have been better!

First, they smell yummy! Actually good enough to eat, and I'm loving White Citrus and Nectarine Mint! And secondly (this actually should have been first!), like other hand sanitizers on the market, they're formulated to kill 99.9% of germs (so they're clinical strength!) and that works for me! And for you LeSportsac lovers, the PocketBac is yours with the purchase of any bag- now through December 24th!

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

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Thank You, Thank You & Thank You!

As you all know, I partnered with Molton Brown to host an evening of champagne, personalized pampering and private shopping this past Sunday. The event was a success and I can't tell you how much I enjoyed meeting everyone! It rained, rained and rained and guests still came out for the event! The Molton Brown staff was AMAZING- professional, knowledgeable and patient! Here's a quick recap...



The guests above are browsing, sampling products and asking questions...


Here I am greeting more guests and inviting them to make themselves comfortable and enjoy...



In this photo, we are preparing for the champagne toast! Purzsha, the store manager, is both sharing the history of Molton Brown and thanking all guests who came out to support the event. I'm giving the guests more insight into Mischo Beauty, encouraging all to sample the products, ask questions and take advantage of the hand & arm massages!



This is DE from BeautyLogic (one of THE best beauty blogs!) and I posing for a quick photo. She was actually the FIRST guest to walk through the door, wet from all the rain, but still smiling! Thank you, DE!



Here I am chatting with more guests as they decide on final purchases...



And although I was the host of the event, there was no way in the world I was leaving without having had a hand & arm massage performed by Pedro (store associate). You all know I first fell in love with Molton Brown after having had one of their massages over the summer! So, there was no way I was leaving without one!



Pedro used the Rose Granati Soothing Hand Lotion for the hand & arm massages, which combined with his touch, was pure magic!



I can't say "Thank You" enough to those of you who came out in the pouring rain! From the bottom of my heart- "Thank You!". I'd also like to thank those of you who weren't able to make it, but sent me text messages, emails and tweets of support with best wishes. Though you weren't able to make it- it meant the world to have your support. To those of you who posted my event invite on your blogs, invited your personal networks out to my event, left comments on my blog in support of the event or re-tweeted my many event tweets- "Thank You!".

I can't wait to do this again and look forward to meeting many more of you!

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Mischo Beauty School: Jojoba Oil 101



This post is dedicated to Charlene, who left a comment recently asking me to write a post on the benefits of jojoba oil. I'd written a post about two years ago, and so I'm repeating it today for those of you who may have missed it.

So very simply, jojoba oil is extracted from bean-like seeds of a desert shrub. Chemically, jojoba oil is very similar to human sebum, which is the oil produced by the body and used to lubricate and protect skin and hair. When this oil decreases due to age, stress, pollution, or the environment, jojoba oil can be used to replicate it.

Hair is often stripped of protective oils and never replenished, and jojoba oil is an effective conditioner, moisturizer and hair softener. Jojoba oil conditions the hair and prevents it from becoming dull and brittle. It is also a widely used ingredient in shampoos, conditioners, lotions, nail care products, baby care products, bath oils, soaps, sunscreen, makeup products and perfumes.

And so I'm definitely recommending jojoba oil for dry hair during this winter season. My recommendations for it's use are as follows:

- Use as a "pre-poo"/preconditioning/hot oil treatment by heating it up and applying to your hair and scalp. Allow to penetrate hair and scalp for about 15- 20 minutes and follow with a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner.

- Use as a deep conditioner by adding it to your favorite conditioner and sitting under a dryer for 30 minutes.

- Use as a blow-drying serum. Apply to wet hair before blow-drying. It's the right amount of moisture without weighing hair down. And, it adds a great shine!

- Use nightly (or as needed) on dry ends or other dry areas of hair before wrapping hair with a satin/silk scarf.

Please feel free to e-mail me with any questions! Love your hair.

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You're Invited: Mischo Beauty & Molton Brown Event



The event is this Sunday, December 13th from 3pm - 6pm, and I can't wait! If you haven't RSVP'd, there's still time. Looking forward to seeing you all there!

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Do You "Pre-Poo" (Pre-Shampoo)?



I'm the queen of mixing up a "hair cocktail" and recently shared with you all what I'm currently using as my pre-poo treatment. After reading various hair forums on the internet, I'm amazed at the variety of products people are using...

So my question for you today is: Do you "pre-poo" (pre-shampoo)? And if so, what do you use and why?

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Mischo's Mistletoe Beauty Guide



I enjoy sharing beauty tips, beauty education and product reviews with you all, but now it's time for some fun! It's my favorite time of the year- and so the theme of this guide is all about achieving that "kiss me under the mistletoe" look with gorgeous makeup, hair, skin and nails. And so, let's begin!



The foundation for beautiful skin, is healthy skin. My recommendation is to start with a cleansing and nourishing facial. We all know the benefits of facials, right? And so my suggestion is a visit to Christine Chin Spa, owned by celebrity esthetician, Christine Chin. She has over 20 years of experience in the skincare business, and her clients include Gisele Bundchen, Kimora Lee Simmons and Kate Moss.



I don't know about you, but I want to keep my skin healthy and glowing after an investment in a facial. I suggest investing in a Clarisonic skincare brush. You can use it in conjunction with a cleanser and also with an exfoliant for an even deeper cleansing. I always use mine during the mini-facials I give myself at home. The removal of dead skin cells, not only helps with cell turnover, but also keeps skin looking young and fresh.



There's not much I need to say about La Mer, that you don't already know! It is luxury skincare at it's best. What I will say though is, if you don't have a consistent skincare regimen- GET STARTED NOW! I'm recommending The Connoisseur Collection.



Baths are both relaxing and pampering- and you should pamper yourself daily, not just on special occasions. I fell in love with the Bath Oil Collection, Deluxe Soap Collection and Pamper Kit- all holiday gift sets by Jo Malone. Sorry- I couldn't pick just one!



I stopped in Bergdorf's this past summer and fell in love with Serge Lutens Parfum. I know fragrance scents are individual, but there are enough scents in this collection of fragrances that you'll definitely fall in love with one of them. When I wear Nuit De Cellophane or Datura Noir- I'm always complemented. Wearing one of these scents will definitely secure a kiss!



I'm partial to a sexy, sultry eye look- especially for under the mistletoe, and so my pick is the Les 4 Ombres De Chanel eye shadow quad in "Smoky Eyes" by Chanel.



You all know how much I love celebrity makeup artist, Sam Fine. Whatever he's using, I'm rushing out to try! He loves blushes by NARS, and my suggestion to you is to visit a NARS counter near you and find a shade that makes you glow! One of my favorites is "Orgasm".



So this is really about achieving the most kissable lips, right! So I'm recommending both the Rouge Volupte and Fard A Levres Rouge Pur lipsticks by Yves Saint Laurent. The texture, range of shades, and wearability make both lipsticks so worth it! And kissable lips are worth it, right?



I don't know about you, but when I look at a person, most times my eyes are drawn to their hair first. And so, healthy hair is key! A beautifully executed cut and color, doesn't hurt! If you happen to be near New York City, then you need to see Carlina Munoz for color (you won't be disappointed!) and she's at the John Barrett Salon. My recommendation for a haircut would be an amazing hairstylist by the name of Mahogany, at the Oscar Blandi Salon. Mahogany also specializes in extensions, Brazilian relaxing treatments and thermal straightening treatments.



For home maintenance- yes, you must properly care for your investments- I'm recommending Kerastase. I love this line of products because there's a product for every hair type/need/issue. So if you've colored your hair, be sure to check out the Reflection collection. If you're having issues with dryness, possibly due to the change in seasons, then check out the Nutritive collection of products.



I'm personally dying to visit Jin Soon Hand And Foot Spa. It's owned by manicurist to the stars, Jin Soon. Remember her collaboration with MAC Cosmetics earlier this year, and the nail colors you couldn't live without? Well, not only is Jin about creating chic nail colors and pampering her clients, she also educates her clients on the health and care of their nails. She's even included a downloadable nail handbook on her website (I love it!). There's no doubt that after an appointment with her, you'll have perfectly manicured hands and feet.



And finally, we know manicures/pedicures only last for so long (especially depending on your lifestyle, etc.) and so I love Zoya Nail Polish for home use. It's free of harmful chemicals, and you WILL find a shade you'll fall in love with! Remember how much I loved "Layla" this summer? Right now I'm wearing "Envy" and yes, I love it too!

I hope you all loved my picks, suggestions and recommendations. I had fun compiling this list- and really, it go could on forever! What I really want for the holidays- besides all the kisses I can get under the mistletoe- is love, peace and happiness for all!

So, which of the above are you planning to try for yourself?

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