DIY Facial Scrubs
The many benefits of exfoliation include the following:
1. Improves skin texture, hydration and moisture retention.
2. Increases the rate of cell turnover.
3. Improves elastin and collagen production.
4. Reduces fine lines, wrinkles and pigmentation issues.
5. May help control conditions such as acne, hyperpigmentation and eczema.
Though the benefits of exfoliation might be convincing, the beauty budget may dictate otherwise. Here are a few scrubs which can be made from the ingredients found right at home.
Baking Soda Scrub:
Mix 2 to 3 tablespoons of baking soda with water to form a paste. Apply to skin in a gentle circular motion, including the neck and decollete. Rinse, and continue with the remainder of the skincare regimen.
Cornmeal Scrub:
Mix 2 to 3 tablespoons of cornmeal with water to form a paste. Apply to skin in a gentle circular motion, including the neck and decollete. Rinse, and continue with the remainder of the skincare regimen.
Brownsugar Scrub:
Mix 2 to 3 tablespoons of brownsugar with olive oil or coconut oil to form a paste. Apply to skin in a gentle circular motion, including the neck and decollete. Rinse, and contine with the remainder of the skincare regimen.
While the above facial scrubs work with all skin types, it is important to follow the "less is more" rule and apply these scrubs no more than one to two times per week to avoid over-exfoliation. Including this step in your skincare regimen should guarantee improvement in both the health and appearance of your skin. Read More......
Mischo Beauty Challenge: "A Healthy, Sexy & Beautiful 2012"
Like I said last year, 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 the "A Healthy, Sexy & Beautiful 2012" challenge. As Oprah always says "when you know better, you do better". We definitely know better, so let's continue to do better!
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. First on my agenda is to get a new pair of running shoes! As you all know, I recently had a baby and have been living in the most gorgeous women's flats for the past nine months. I'm looking forward to adding to my shoe wardrobe.
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. Enlist a partner (of course someone who shares the same goals) and hold each other accountable. That pretty much speaks for itself, right? It would be a good idea to invest in an ipod so that working out is easy, I know Best Buy iPods are usually cheap and have free shipping.
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 #HealthySexyBeautiful2012, so feel free to join me in sharing your updates by using it too!
Are you with me? I hope so! Let's get started!
Read More......
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 #HealthySexyBeautiful2012, so feel free to join me in sharing your updates by using it too!
Are you with me? I hope so! Let's get started!
Milly of Beauty Logic joins the CVS Beauty Board!
To learn more about Milly, her beauty tips and to see her videos, head over to the CVS Beauty Club Facebook page.
Congrats, Milly! Read More......
Mischo Beauty Wishes You a Beautiful Christmas and a Glamorous New Year!
photo: bellapilar.com Read More......
Kinky Curly to the Coil Rescue!
I stuck to the magical triumvirate of Come Clean Shampoo, Knot Today Leave-In Detangler and Conditioner, and Curling Custard. Time after time, the results have left me very, very pleased. Experiment with the ratio of Knot Today and Curling Custard as different proportions yield different results, and that can be a very good (read 'versatile') thing. I found that my hair texture loves more Knot Today and a small amount of the Custard (which is concentrated).
On those days when I have to have my fix of Big Hair, I use the Knot Today, allow it to air dry to slightly damp overnight, and then add a bit more in the morning followed by a scrunch through of a couple healthy dabs of the Curling Custard. Refreshing was easy with a water assist, either with wet hands or the spray bottle.
Fan-tab-u-LOUS!
What do you think of Kinky Curly's products? -Zee Read More......
COVERGIRL’s Latest Fresh-Faced Beauty (and a Contest!)
Paula's excitement to represent the beauty of women of color with COVERGIRL was as palpable as she was gorgeous! She shared her new post-baby beauty staples of lip stain that doubles as blush, mascara and the ever important concealer, and revealed the January 2012 arrival of three new products: LashFantastic Mascara, Lasting Matte Pressed Powder and Vivid Impact Eyeliner.
Want to meet Paula yourself? Then visit COVERGIRL's Facebook page, beginning October 31st, and let them know how they can help you unleash your beauty. A winner will be picked in December, and will receive a one-on-one COVERGIRL makeover with Paula and one of her favorite celebrity makeup artists. The makeover will be showcased as part of a webisode series featured on COVERGIRL.com, YouTube and Facebook. I may need to enter this one myself - ha! Good luck!
Are you a Queen Collection fan? What do you think about Paula as the new brand ambassador? -Zee Read More......
Amplify with Hourglass Cosmetics Film Noir Lash Lacquer
On one hand, the product definitely made my lashes appear super glossy and jet black, even without the recommended base of lengthening mascara. I was impressed with the glamorous look of it all, and even more taken by the fact that my occasional eye rubbing throughout the day (terrible, I know) did not rub off or flake the lacquer. Its latex-like finish adheres to your lashes differently than mascara does, and therein lies the goodness.
On the flip side, applying this product takes way too much care for my hectic morning routine, but could be worth the extra time when prepping for a night out on the town. Cleaning and brushing off the excess from the brush before each application is a must, otherwise the lacquer clumps and either doesn't brush on at all or gathers lots of lashes into an unattractive dog pile. No, not a pleasure. You really have to follow the directions and take your time.
All and all, I say try it if you have $28 to spare, as well as the time and patience to get the application right. -Zee Read More......
Mischo Beauty Challenge Update: "A Healthy, Sexy & Beautiful 2011"
My grandmother is many things: feisty, smart as a whip, witty as all get out, quite free with her tongue, gorgeous at any age and a fighter to her core. She has beaten back breast cancer, twice. A stickler for healthy eating and body maintenance, she has always been very good about annual doctor appointments and physicals. It was during one of those visits, about four years ago, that an abnormal mammogram exposed early stage breast cancer.
Being a septuagenarian, she assessed her options carefully and made a treatment decision that was right for her and the cancer was removed. During a checkup, almost two years later, a different instance of breast cancer, in the same breast, was found, again in an early stage. This time she opted to undergo chemotherapy. The road has definitely not been easy, but she is still here, kicking hard. If you asked, she would tell you that early detection was the key to her second and third chances at life.
The numbers are not heartening: 1 out of 8 women will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer during her lifetime, and out of those women, a whopping 85% will have no family history of the disease. It is highly likely that each of us knows and loves at least one woman who has or has had the disease.
What do these statistics mean for us? That preventive care - via healthy lifestyle choices, self-exams, and consistent and on-time screenings (as per guidelines outlined by your doctor) - can mean the difference between surviving and succumbing. Please visit the American Cancer Society for more information on early detection and prevention, and stand up for your life. -Zee Read More......
Ask Mischo Beauty...
This week's question comes from my sister, Allison, who asked the following:
"What's your favorite facial mask and why?"
In all honesty, I've had the opportunity to use a variety of facial masks that have worked well for me (I have combination skin), and what's really most important when selecting a mask is knowing your skin type. Generally, there are two types of masks - setting masks and non-setting masks. Setting masks, which normally use clay as their base - harden, dry, absorb oil and remove dead skin cells. They're recommended for oily, combination and acneic skin types.
Non-setting masks should be used on normal, dry or sensitive skin and are primarily nourishing, hydrating and soothing. An example of a non-setting mask would be a gel mask. Benefits of masks include some of the following:
- Tighten and tone the skin
- Draw impurities out of the pores
- Assist in clearing of blemishes
- Hydrate & nourish the skin
- Calm & soothe the skin
And to further answer your question - know that I'm not brand loyal and that I personally use a combination of both mask types. I use a setting mask on my oily t-zone and a non-setting mask everywhere else. So there you have it!
I hope this helps. Please stop back by and let us know how you choose to move forward, as well as what works for you. Love your skin. Read More......
Getting Pouty with Bliss Fabulips
Fall is upon us, and along with the crisp air and gorgeously changing leaves, comes dry, chapped lips. Bliss Fabulips offers a four step at-home remedy for this problem. I have used the kit to prep before heading out with a vibrant pink lip and again before wearing a sock-it-to-them wine colored lipstick. In both cases, my lips provided a perfectly smooth, and surprisingly, extra pouty canvas.
The Foaming Lip Cleanser (Step 1) is designed to lift surface impurities and is followed by the Sugar Lip Scrub, made with almond and walnut shells (so nut allergic folks, be aware), that gently roughs away dead skin. Then comes my favorite, Step 3, the Instant Lip Plumper, infused with cork tree extract and a peptide-packed complex. Now, my lips are naturally at least midway along the fullness spectrum, and I am very satisfied with them.
I confess that this plumper really amazed me by giving my lips enough extra that I saw the difference and enjoyed it... and would plump them again! Step 4 is the Softening Lip Balm. Made with shea butter, jojoba and grapeseed oils, it is perfect at any time, though I have been using it primarily before going to bed, to moisturize my kisser while I sleep.
This is a pretty pricey ($45) kit whose contents are available separately. The only product that you might have a hard time replacing with a less expensive and just as effective alternative is the Instant Lip Plumper ($18). It is definitely the standout of the bunch, and I recommend giving it a try if you are looking to extra-sexify your pout! -Zee
Disclosure: Products in this post were provided for consideration by the company. For more information, please see my disclosure. Read More......
In the Flow of Change with Georgia NY
Those of you who, like me, are already hankering to relax in the eclectically charming and well-appointed boutique/salon as you have known it, can take heart. There are plans in the works for a new salon in NYC, and products from their private label, Georgia by G & Company will be available online as well as at select boutiques internationally. You cannot hold a good woman back from her dreams, let alone two!
All the very best to owners Jodie Patterson and Kiara Ellozy. You are visionaries and artisans par excellence. We are excited to behold the next iteration of Georgia NY! -Zee
Read More......
Mischo Beauty School: Skin Types vs. Skin Conditions
Now with that said, let's address "Skin Types vs. Skin Conditions". Your skin type is genetically determined (you're born with it!) and most often can be controlled with a consistent skincare regimen. Skin types are as follows:
- Normal
- Dry
- Oily/Combination
- Acneic
- Sensitive
Skin conditions are most often caused by external factors such as the environment, stress, medication, etc. and may include the following:
- Dehydration
- Sensitivities
- Aging
- Pigmentation
- Breakouts
These conditions affect all skin types and may change daily. The great news is that these conditions can be corrected! So for example, you might have an oily skin type that suffers from breakouts and pigmentation issues. And so with all that said, knowing the difference between your skin type and skin conditions will only better help you in selecting the best products for your skincare regimen which will ultimately assist in achieving the goal of healthy skin!
Any questions? Love your skin.
Read More......
I Spy Fabulous Eyes: Rimmel London’s Lash Accelerator
A fresh, natural look was achieved with one coat, and two coats delivered a work-appropriate lusciousness that left me pleased as pie with my peepers. Mind you, my eyelashes are so legendarily sparse that they have a nickname: Stubs. They are the only thing that I inherited from my mother that I would like to give back, post-haste!
This mascara both thickened and lengthened poor Stubs, and piled on well after work for glamorous nighttime drama. Yes! Lash Accelerator is definitely on my hot list and will be in regular rotation.
Have any of you given Lash Accelerator a try? Where does it stand in comparison to your other lash favorites? -Zee
Disclosure: Products in this post were provided for consideration by the company. For more information, please see my disclosure. Read More......
Mischo Beauty Challenge Update: "A Healthy, Sexy & Beautiful 2011"
And yes, it's the reason for the break away from blogging.
So to quickly update you - my eating habits have returned to almost normal, my energy levels are pretty much back on track (given the circumstances) and thank God for prenatal yoga (a life saver) classes twice a week! I'm still using my pedometer (just walking) and trying to get in as many steps as I can daily - and believe it or not, drinking 96 oz of water (has to be ice cold!) daily is a breeze - I pretty much crave it!
Now that you're all caught up with me - it's your turn! Have you been keeping up with the challenge?
Read More......
Mischo Beauty in the News!
While I don't really advocate self-relaxing (hey, I'm a licensed cosmetologist!) for many reasons I've discussed on the blog many times before, I will relax my own hair every blue moon. Typically, you should only get your hair relaxed by a beauty professional who has attended cosmetology school. This at-home relaxer is my go-to for the reasons I mentioned in the article:
"I've used this relaxer repeatedly, and I've never had an issue with application, over-processing, breakage or dryness."
It's the truth! And it's such an honor to be included in this issue. I'd like to send a special "THANK YOU" to the beauty editorial team at Ebony Magazine!
Read More......
Ask Mischo Beauty...
"What is the best regimen and product recommendations to recover from stress induced hair breakage?"
Well, first and foremost, I'd recommend seeing a dermatologist. While I do believe in self-diagnosis, hair loss of any type can be a serious matter. Seeing a doctor might insure that the breakage isn't being caused by any medically treatable factors. So, rule the medical factors out first!
Now stress does play a part in your health and is reflected in the health and ultimately the appearance of your hair, skin and nails. My next suggestion is that you evaluate your lifestyle and determine what you can do to combat the stress. Are you lacking sleep? Dehydrated often? Following an improper diet? Lacking exercise? If so, make changes as soon as possible, and enlist help if needed. And if opportunities to relax present themselves - take advantage of them!
Lastly, evaluate the products you're using for your hair and make sure they're appropriate for your hair type. Your hair is going to need lots of TLC to get it back to it's optimal health. So, if you aren't following a home haircare regimen- start one today! Also, add to that regimen a protein conditioner which is used to strengthen the hair. Protein conditioners should only be used according to the manufacturer's directions because improper use may result in breakage.
I really hope this helps!
If you have beauty questions you'd like answered, please send them to mischobeauty@gmail.com. Read More......
Mischo Beautyliciousness...
And speaking of blessings, I had to mention Beyonce's pregnancy (which I know is old news for most of you) -she's glows in the photo above. You know I'm a "Beyonce stan" and am so excited about the upcoming arrival of her little bundle of joy! So the obvious next question is- what do you think she's having? Let me know...
Read More......
Mischo Beauty School: Facial Masks 101
Setting masks, which normally use clay as their base, harden and dry and absorb oil and remove dead skin cells. Non-setting masks are for dry or sensitive skin and are primarily moisturizing and soothing. Benefits of masks include the following:
1. Tighten and tone the skin
2. Draw impurities out of the pores
3. Clear up blemishes
4. Hydrate
5. Nourish
6. Calm and soothe
7. Rejuvenate the skin
Now that the weather is seriously cold and dry (at least in the midwest and east coast), consider investing in a non-setting mask (if it works for your skin type) which will keep your skin nourished and hydrated throughout the winter season! Please feel free to e-mail me with any questions. Love your skin. Read More......
