Ask Mischo Beauty...

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

"Can you please recommend a blow dryer for natural, curly African-American hair?"

There are so many great hair dryers on the market right now, which work for ALL hair types, so it's hard to recommend just one (in addition to the fact that I'm not brand loyal!). But, before I get into recommendations, I just want to reiterate the fact that after completing cosmetology school, I stopped defining hair by one's race. Instead, I like to describe hair in terms of texture and hair type.

Now, most of the best hair dryers are manufactured with the "Tourmaline Ion" technology which does the following:

- Cuts drying time in half
- Reduces frizz, adds shine
- Allows for consistent/even heat temperatures

And the list of "pros" goes on and on, depending on the brand, make and model of the hair dryer. If you're working with a thick head of coarse hair, then you'll want to especially make sure the dryer comes with a comb attachment or be sure to purchase one from a beauty supply store. A comb attachment will speed up the process, while allowing for greater control of your hair and less time spent on further straightening needed with a flat iron.

So a few of my favorites include:

- SuperSolanoX Professional Xtreme Hair Dryer
- CHI Ceramic Ionic Hair Dryer
- T3 Featherweight Hair Dryer

Also, just a reminder, be sure to use a moisturizing leave-in conditioner AND a heat protectant as part of your haircare regimen before blow-drying.

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.

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COVERGIRL Queen Collection Lipsticks

There are some new lipsticks in town, ladies, courtesy of the COVERGIRL Queen Collection. Hypoallergenic and infused with a silk protein designed to soften your lips more and more with each wear, they are available in a range of colors specifically suited to women of color. The selection which I test drove included Ruby Slipper, Fine Wine, Spicy Seduction and Girly Pink. Fine Wine was by far my favorite.

It is a richly pigmented shade that goes on smoothly, though it is sadly not thick enough to avoid light re-application many times throughout the day. This particular color faded into a lovely berry-colored stain on my lips which I appreciated, though not as much as I enjoyed the intensity of color when it was freshly applied. Although the packaging on these lipsticks has been given an upgrade, work still needs to be done in the longevity department. -Zee

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

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Does your esthetician double-dip during your waxing service?

If your esthetician is doing this, then you need to RUN! It's unsafe, unsanitary and just disgusting. Think about it- most estheticians use one wax pot on all clients. So, if double-dipping occurs during the brazilian waxing service performed before your appointment, then the wax used for your lip waxing is now contaminated. And we know that the temperature of wax isn't high enough to kill bacteria, because if it was it would burn your skin.

So my question for you today is: Does your esthetician double-dip during your waxing service?

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Mischo Beauty Review: The Boutique Spa at The Ritz-Carlton

As much as I love beauty, and love spending time in Georgetown, I can't say that I have a favorite beauty salon or spa in the Georgetown neighborhood. But, that has now changed due to my visit and facial at The Boutique Spa at The Ritz-Carlton.

Located on the ground floor of the hotel, the spa offers facials, body treatments and massages and features four treatment rooms, a steam room and sauna, a relaxation room and skincare by Eminence Organic. The spa is intimate and personal and makes for easy access for the hotel's guests. And, the hotel itself is just steps away from the shopping Georgetown is known for.

My visit started with a tour of the spa followed by an opportunity to relax and unwind in the steam room before the start of my facial. Following my steam treatment and unwinding in the relaxation room, my esthetician Poy, escorted me into the treatment room for the Tailored Organic Facial. I was pleased to see the Tailored Organic Facial on the menu because this facial is perfect for those who've never had a facial and aren't sure of their skin type or skin needs. It should allow (in my opinion) the esthetician to determine the guest's skin type, better tailor the treatments used during a facial and make sound product recommendations for at-home skincare.

At the start of my facial, I was asked if I was experiencing any issues with my skin and told that the Eminence Organic skincare line, which is formulated with nourishing vitamins and minerals, would be used for my facial. I told Poy that my skin felt dry and dehydrated and mentioned that I would pass on extractions. In place of performing extractions, I enjoyed a targeted eye treatment.

My facial consisted of a deep cleansing treatment which included use of an exfoliant mixed with a cleanser and the use of a Clarisonic skincare brush (which you all know I'm a huge fan of!), along with a steam treatment. I appreciated the fact that Poy suggested not exfoliating for 5 days after the facial. We all know over-exfoliation may wreak havoc on the skin, so less is more! The next steps included the eye treatment, mask treatment, massage (face, neck, decollete, arms & hands) and the application of a serum and moisturizer. I can't begin to tell you how much I loved Poy's touch and my skin felt and looked great days following the facial.

I do have three wishes for my next visit (as I've said many times before, I'm picky!)- yes, I can't wait to go back - and they're as follows. I would prefer the use of a magnifying lamp to ensure that my skin is properly both seen and felt at the time of my visit - leading to further customization of my treatments. Completion of a client consultation form is a must because I want to make sure that there are no issues with contraindications, communication and expectations. And lastly, and I'm probably in the minority here, but I love product recommendations from my spa therapist (if needed). I consider facials an investment in me (yes, I'm worth it) and so I'm open to learning and possibly using new products which might continue to maintain or even improve my skin's health.

I can't wait to return and the next time it'll be for a Girls' Spa Day, because there's no way this spa should be kept a secret!

Have you visited The Boutique Spa at The Ritz-Carlton?

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 Extra: Milani Cosmetics One Coat Glitter Nail Polish

I am sure you can find great deals with a Milani Cosmetics’ promo code at Target and save on nail polishes. These were just too cute not to mention - I'm sure you all know by now how much I love anything glittery, shimmery, sparkly and covered in sequins! Milani Cosmetics' One Coat Glitter nail polish collection is seriously a steal! And on another note, I'll have a full review of last week's CND Shellac manicure coming soon. After 7 days, this is what it looks like - I'm pressed!

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 Challenge Update: "A Healthy, Sexy & Beautiful 2011"

So this is my weekly check-in! I wanted to quickly mention the Rene Furterer dietary supplements (for hereditary and sudden/temporary hair loss) shown above. I'm not one to really advocate the use of supplements over a proper diet (as discussed here), but I do understand the need at times. There are circumstances that warrant the use of them. Also, I loved Cooking Light's "12 Ways to Eat More Vegetables and Fruit"... be sure to check it out and let me know your thoughts!

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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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......

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In Pursuit of My Fantasy Hair

For weeks the excitement ate me up inside. Ready to do more than have long hair for the heck of it, I let myself be carried away with anticipation - this curly pouf of fluffy goodness was about to get whipped into shape, and a sensually sweet one at that. I. could. not. wait. Cut day came and by the end of it all, my grand New Hair New Me dreams were living on a wing and a prayer. Had you seen me at 59th St. and Columbus Circle, you would have either pulled me into the nearest bar for some good, stiff drinks or let me the hell alone.

(before haircut)

Y'all know how I have raved about Hair Rules - the products that I use live up to their promises (the no-suds cleanser is so moisturizing that I almost forgot to condition my hair on more than one occasion); Anthony Dickey, a co-founder of the brand, has styled the hell out of some hair - celebrities and non-celebrities alike - I've seen the gorgeous results with my own eyes; and the salon specializes in "textured" hair, and if nothing, I've got plenty of texture all up in here. It was a no-brainer that my cut should be done at their salon. Dickey himself sheared me up and the resulting style looked good, though not great (the haircut inspiration photo I shared with Dickey is the first photo at the top of this post). My inner voice kept an interventionist dialogue going with the rest of my disappointed, then angry and frustrated self. My stated request was to keep my length while being given the shape illustrated in the inspiration photo that I dutifully brought along. I'm still wondering where our lines of communication crossed.

I was on a personal hair growth mission - testing my limits and figuring out how long I could let it grow (this challenge has been akin to figuring out how many licks it takes to get to the center of a tootsie roll pop. Like the owl, it seems I will never know). I was coveting the luscious, glorious afro-extraordinaire of the model who appeared on my Body Shoppe discount card about six years ago. I could have been a contender!

I arrived at the salon a few minutes early for my 6:00pm appointment to find I was not on the schedule. RED ALERT. What is really going on? Now, journey with me; I don't want to be unfair. The appointment was made weeks beforehand and confirmed, but stuff happens, and I didn't want to judge harshly so I kept on keeping on. I get to the chair, and because curly styles are cut on straight hair, I am blown out. The benefits of this method are far from lost on me, especially after an experience with a Moroccan stylist who was truly gifted with shaping curly hair, but whose work looked like an Edward Scissorhands swagger-jack when blown out straight. I occasionally wear my hair straight, so it is important that a cut has some sense of symmetry.

(the diffusing process)

Dickey begins to cut and my worry grows as he takes his third pass with the shears. "This man is a celebrity stylist with a great reputation," I said to myself, "and I let him know clearly that I wanted to keep my length. It will be fine." I should have been all over it once he hit on the second pass, but once he began the third it was already too late. On my way to the sink for cleansing, conditioning and curly whip application, I caught a glimpse of my hair from the side and felt all verklempt. Sweet Jesus, it was so much shorter than I asked for. At this point I could only hold out and see how it translated into the curly look.

(final haircut)

After sitting under the dryer for about 15-20 minutes to let the curly whip dry a bit, I was diffused while lying down. The curl definition was serious business, people. I do not exaggerate when I say there was no frizz. He shook it out with his fingers to separate the curls and give it more volume and still no frizz. I kept pulling at the hair at my nape, asking if there was a way to elongate the curl back there (code for: What the eff??? Why is this so short?? Can I get some of it back? No? Wahhhhhhh!)

(three days after haircut)

Needless to say, I left the salon with conflicted feelings. My hair was cute but not what I asked for or imagined. If you've ever had a cut gone wrong, then you know what I mean. In an attempt at self-soothing, I told myself that my hair would look as good as Marsha Ambrosius' once given three months or so to grow out. I was alarmed by the lack of body, but Dickey assured me that it would fill out and by day three it had. Day three was a very good day. Redemption!

(what I hope my haircut will resemble in 3 months!)

In a nutshell: I highly recommend their products, but the jury is still out on styling. If you go, make sure you call ahead to re-confirm your appointment. Bring photos and not only stipulate the shape you would like, but also be explicit regarding length. My hair is MUCH shorter than I wanted it to be, though if the cut necessitated this length, I would have accepted that. Clear communication is necessary to avoid such situations. I thought that was understood, but clearly I was not. Dickey has a long and loyal roster of clients (I told you, I've seen some beautiful hair birthed by his hands) so I am at a loss as to what happened the night that I visited. I am chalking this near-debacle up to distraction and misunderstanding, and waiting three months for my happy ending. -Zee

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

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Do you tip after receiving salon/spa services?

If you don't, then please tell us why? And if you do, then how much? Do you tip when the person performing your service is the owner of the business? Also, do you leave your tips at the front desk with reception, or do you give your tip directly to the person who performed the service? Would love to know your thoughts in the comments section below!

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Mischo Beauty Review: The Spa at The Sports Club/LA

As you all know, because I've stated it here before, I'm not a huge fan of body scrub/body polish treatments - at spas that is (just a personal preference). But, I was offered the opportunity to visit The Spa at The Sports Club/LA and experience their "New Year, New You Body Scrub and Wrap" treatment (currently available until the end of March). As much as I love to spa, and after reading the treatment description:

- Body treatment designed to purify, nourish and relax
- Full-body exfoliation stimulates your skin, and then mask hydrates
- Wrapped to allow further infusion, while receiving a relaxing scalp massage

There was no way I could pass on this opportunity! Located next to The Ritz-Carlton, allowing for direct access from inside the hotel, The Spa offers a variety of facials, waxing, massages and body treatments. I'd best describe the atmosphere as "intimate" and "cozy". It features nine treatment rooms, a relaxation area and use of The Sports Club/LA's locker room, showers and steam rooms.

My treatment started with a full body exfoliation using the Epicuren Discovery skincare range. Following the exfoliation portion of the treatment, my spa therapist Alexi, escorted me to the showers for a thorough rinse of the exfoliant, before the application of the hydrating mask. Once the mask (which is meant to infuse vitamins, restore moisture and improve skin texture and tone) was applied, my body was then wrapped and I was allowed to further relax while the mask's nourishing ingredients went to work!

My skin felt amazing after the body wrap was removed! Yes, the body scrub portion of the treatment was so worth it! And my best advice regarding this treatment? Well, make no plans following it. Actually, plan to spend additional time in the spa's relaxation area so as not to disturb your state of relaxation. Oh, and before leaving, be sure to check out the Epicuren Discovery skincare range- yes, my skin really felt that great!

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: 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 Extra: CND Shellac Manicure

While visiting Bliss Spa yesterday, I decided to give the CND Shellac manicure a try, again - this time in Tropix. I'll be back in about 2 weeks to tell you all about my visit and let you know how long the manicure lasted. Please stay tuned!

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 Challenge Update: "A Healthy, Sexy & Beautiful 2011"

As promised, I'm checking in! And, as you can see, I'm eating a salad of fresh greens and other vegetables for lunch today- actually I try to do it daily, though I'll admit, it gets boring. But, I'm still challenging myself to fresh green vegetables at least 3x a week - not including the Glowing Green Smoothies I make some mornings. How goes it for you?

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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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Mischo Beautyliciousness...

Just in case you missed it, my "A Healthy, Sexy & Beautiful 2011" post is up and the challenge is on! And with that said, this photo has officially been added to my vision board. Why? Because firm and toned legs are a must for 2011! Don't you agree?

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Mischo Beauty Review: The Spa at Mandarin Oriental

I started the "Because You're Worth It" posts about 3 years ago shortly after starting this blog because I felt, well quite simply, that readers needed to be encouraged to go out and pamper themselves. And, it was then that I first mentioned The Spa at Mandarin Oriental (Washington, DC).

Well earlier this week I headed over to The Spa for a tour of the facilities and most importantly - an afternoon of pampering! As soon as I arrived, I was greeted with slippers, a warm towel for my hands and a cup of calming tea. At that point I knew this was going to be an experience like no other. I'm so glad that I arrived early because I was able to take full advantage of the "Heat and Water Oasis" (which you can use before or after a treatment), which included use of the Amethyst Steam Room, the Experience Shower, Ice Fountain and Vitality Pool. It was THE perfect way to unwind and relax before my treatment.

My Time Reversal facial treatment started with a thorough consultation to ensure there were no contraindications (this is a MUST--- always! remember this post?), followed by a thorough cleansing, toning and skin analysis. After the skin analysis, the treatment was customized to meet my individual needs and included an exfoliation, a cold stone massage, hand massage, collagen mask and foot massage. The treatment ended with the application of a serum, eye cream and moisturizer with an SPF.

Now being the beauty professional that I am (you all know that I'm a licensed esthetician) I'm somewhat picky when it comes to spa treatments. I opted out of extractions because those are for the hands of my regular esthetician. I wish I would have enjoyed my foot massage - but I do realize that "touch" is personal. So, what feels good to one, may not necessarily work for another. And I must say that I always look forward to mask treatments, with a preference for those that work for the face, neck (shows first signs of aging) and decollete (the second face!). The collagen mask used during the treatment was for the face only.

At the completion of my treatment, my therapist Lisan recommended that I consider purchasing Somme Institute's Step 3 Serum, which is a highly concentrated vitamin C gel that works to improve skin tone, elasticity and build collagen. I thought her recommendation was excellent after having discussed the results of my skin analysis with her earlier and knowing she'd used both a magnifying lamp and woods lamp during her analysis. It's always my goal to protect an investment such as a facial, and maintain the esthetician's hard work with a consistent at-home facial regimen. So, great product recommendations are always welcome!

The afternoon I spent as the The Spa was outstanding - my facial was amazing (yes, my skin is still glowing!) and I was treated like a queen! I'm looking forward to returning soon for much, much more! Why? Because I'm worth it!

Have you visited The Spa at Mandarin Oriental yet?

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

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What's the worst beauty advice you've ever received?

You've got to let me know! For me personally, it's not that I've received horrible beauty advice, it's just that it's annoying when someone tries to advise you and they don't follow their own direction! For example, I had an esthetics instructor who smoked cigarettes - and I'm sure you can imagine the rest... I was never able to wrap my brain around the fact that she taught skincare/skin health, but smoked cigarettes!?! Like, who really still even smokes? Anyway, please share your stories in the comments section below!

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Mischo Beauty Challenge Update: "A Healthy, Sexy & Beautiful 2011"

I hope you all have been able to check out the "A Healthy, Sexy & Beautiful 2011" post by now and have started - or I should say- are continuing on with making healthy changes to your lifestyle. Remember, inner beauty determines outer beauty (as I've said a million times before)!

With that said, I'm happy to present an alternative to the 8 glasses of water we all should really drink daily, and it's Hint Water. It's free of preservatives, sweetners and calories. I mean, it really is just water, but with a "hint" and just a tiny hint (in my opinion) of flavor. I can smell the flavor more than taste it. So for those of you struggling with water, give these a try and let me know what you think!

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Ask Mischo Beauty...

This week's question comes from a reader (who asked to remain anonymous), wanting to know the following:

"Any suggestions on how to get rid of or reduce ingrown hairs after a bikini wax?"

My best advice is to make sure you're exfoliating consistently in between waxing appointments! A few days before your appointment, lightly exfoliate which will in turn make hair easier to adhere to the wax. Resume exfoliation about 3 days after waxing to ensure the removal of dead skin cells, which, if not removed, could cause the hair to grow inward resulting in ingrown hairs. Here are a few products which help prevent ingrown hairs:

- Whish Flawless Ingrown Hair Serum
- BLISS Ingrown Eliminating Pads
- Tend Skin

For best results, always read and follow the manufacturer's directions on use! Also, DO NOT shave in between waxing appointments. Ideally, you'd like your hair growing on the same hair growth cycle to ensure an even length throughout and therefore a thorough waxing. 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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Fight the Good Fight with Origins Clear Improvement Mask

Good people, I have been fighting the good fight against breakouts lately. Between the pollution of New York City, the harsh, cold winter air and drying indoor heat, my poor combination skin has been suffering big time. Despite the constant drilling of Ms. Mischo Beauty herself (Kitiya), I have not been a regular mask user, but I am here to tell you that this has all changed now! Thank you, Origins Clear Improvement Mask, for showing me the light!

This mask's main active ingredient is active charcoal, lauded widely for it's "adsorptive" powers, which means it has the ability to attract substances to itself and make them stick. So, when accompanied with heat, active charcoal seeps down to the lower dermal layer of your skin, magnetizes oil, bacteria and toxins and rids your skin of the nasty critters that can lead to acne, inflammation and a generally unhealthy-looking complexion. If you have oily skin, or combination skin, this mask, which also contains clay, could be a great alternative or sidekick to a lot of the salicylic acid-containing products we are often encouraged to use.

I tried it: my skin looked tauter, my blemishes dried out and perhaps best of all, my pores appeared smaller! The pore thing is huge since I am genetically predisposed to large pores in certain zones of my face and I'm always on the hunt for a great product that effectively works to minimize them, with as many natural ingredients as possible. The mask has now become a twice weekly ritual.

Use it only in your t-zone if that is where the oil is. If you have sensitive skin like I do, apply a thinner layer for your first application, since afterward you may experience a lingering (10-15 minutes for me) hot sensation and a bit of a flushed cheek. This is probably due to myrtle, also an ingredient, which can be irritating for those of us with sensitive skin. And also be aware that rinsing the mask off is not quick work, but the result is well worth it.

Have you used this mask before? What did you think? -Zee

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Mischo Beauty School: Hair Conditioners 101

So which conditioner should you buy? I'm asked this question on almost a weekly basis and it really depends on the condition and texture of your hair. Your stylist will know when to use an instant conditioner for detangling only or when to use a moisturizing or protein conditioning treatment. Let's understand the differences:

1. Instant conditioners (often called rinses), are left on for only a few minutes, smooth the hair's cuticle which should ultimately detangle the hair.

2. Moisturizing conditioners, which are allowed to work for 10-20 minutes, restore moisture to the hair, balance the hair's pH, and smooth/coat the hair shaft resulting in control and shine.

3. Protein conditioners are used to strengthen hair and repair split ends. They are formulated to replace the protein lost in the hair and should only be used according to the manufacturer's directions. Improper use may result in breakage.

Any questions? Love your hair.

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Mischo Beauty Challenge: "A Healthy, Sexy & Beautiful 2011"

I love when Oprah says "when you know better, you do better" (a Maya Angelou quote), and so with the success of last year's "A Healthy, Sexy & Beautiful 2010" challenge we all have to agree that we now definitely know better! It's my goal to continue to be a source of motivation and encouragement when it comes to taking care of yourself internally (internal beauty determines outer beauty!) and so I'm continuing on with "A Healthy, Sexy & Beautiful 2011".

As before, I'll provide weekly tips on health, wellness and exercise. Ultimately, each of us will do what works best individually, based on our own needs. So here are a few items to get you started:

1. Invest in a pedometer and track your steps (so, so easy!). You'll be surprised at how you'll push yourself to get more steps in each day without even realizing it! 7,000-10,000 steps a day are recommended for overall good health.

2. Take a multivitamin daily, and drink a minimum of 8 glasses of water daily.

3. Eat fresh green vegetables at least 3x a week, and make sure you're getting adequate sleep!

4. Check out Kimberly Snyder's blog - it's filled with TONS of great tips and Kimberly is such an inspiration.

5. Yoga = JOY. Let me say that again, Yoga = JOY! If you haven't tried it, you are missing out. Consider joining the 21-day yoga challenge here.

6. I love Zee's "Firm Determination #10", and I plan to start working on that this week!

7. Enlist a partner (of course someone who shares the same goals) and hold each other accountable. That pretty much speaks for itself, right?

And just a reminder- this is not a "weight-loss" challenge, but it is an "inner beauty fitness" challenge. If you're fit internally, then there's no denying it externally! So if you lose weight, and that's your goal, then great. I am not a dietitian, nutritionist, or a medical doctor - so always seek the advice of your doctor!

I'll try to tweet the things I'm doing daily to keep fit and healthy by using the hashtag #HealthySexyBeautiful2011, so feel free to join me in sharing your updates by using it too! Oh, and if there are tips you feel I should add to this list, please leave them in the comments section and I'll be sure to add them.

Are you with me? I hope so! Let's get started!

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Ask Mischo Beauty...

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

"I was wondering if you could recommend a really great conditioner for dry & relaxed hair. Price is not a factor. Thanks so much & enjoy the New Year!"

Selecting a conditioner depends on the texture and condition of your hair. And, also it's important to keep in mind that conditioners fall into three categories- instant conditioners, hydrating conditioners (mask) and protein conditioners (mask). Now, you've told us that your hair is dry and relaxed, so you'll probably want to select a conditioner that falls in the "hydrating conditioner" category.

I'm not brand loyal, and I'm not a brand spokesperson- and believe it or not, I don't have a "holy grail" hydrating conditioner. But a few of my favorites include:

- Wella's Hydro Mask
- Phyto's Phytokarite
- Rene Furterer's Karite
- Moroccanoil's Intense Hydrating Mask
- Kerastase's Masquintense

I'd suggest adding heat to these treatments, either cover your hair with a plastic cap and sit under a hooded hair dryer, or cover your hair with a plastic cap and wrap it in a hot towel for 20-30 minutes. And of course, please always read and follow the manufacturer's directions on use! Also, consider adding a leave-in conditioner to your regimen, as well. I hope this helps. Please stop back by and let us know how it's going! Love your hair.

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

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Mischo Beauty Giveaway Winner: Love & Glamour by Jennifer Lopez

And so without further delay, I'm happy to announce that the winner is:

N. Hutchins

A very special thank you to everyone who entered!

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Mischo Beauty: Happy New Year!

I thought I'd have a list of resolutions to share with you all, but this year I don't. I love the start of the new year, and visualizing all the possibilities ahead is so refreshing. After thinking about 2010- the highs and lows, and the ups and downs - the biggest lesson I learned was how important is really is to make your mind up and work to achieve whatever it is you desire. Tomorrow isn't promised. The dreams and goals in our hearts are gifts, and we owe it to ourselves to pursue them with passion! Would love to know if you've made your mind up and what it is you're working to achieve...

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