DIY Facial Scrubs

Establishing a consistent skincare regimen can do wonders for the skin. While each step in a regimen is considered equally important, enough cannot be said about the importance of exfoliation. The process of removing the excess accumulation of dead skin cells from the outer most layer of skin is referred to as superficial peeling or exfoliation. It can be accomplished mechanically (microdermabrasion), manually (scrubs), or chemically (peels).

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.

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Mischo Beauty School: Skin Types vs. Skin Conditions

If you take anything away from this blog, my hope is that it's properly caring for your skin! Education is key- and that's the reason I continue with the "Mischo Beauty School" posts (your "beauty education"!). According to the New York Times "a new beauty product is born every 2.5 seconds", so while there's always a new product to look forward to, the reality is that these products come and go! The foundation for achieving great skin is knowing your skin type, skin conditions and implementing a consistent skincare regimen.

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.

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Mischo Beauty School: Facial Masks 101

As a follow-up to the question I answered earlier this week on mask types, I thought I'd repost this lesson on masks. A great mask can do wonders for the skin. Masks are designed as an intensive treatment for different skin needs/issues. Generally, there are two types of masks: setting masks and non-setting masks.

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.

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Mischo Beauty Loves DECLÉOR

I've got the worst case of spring fever- seriously! I now, finally, really understand the purpose of "spring break", and I need one now!!! But, what's been saving me as of late is the regimen of Decleor products (Aroma Night, Nutridivine, Aromessence Rose D'Orient and Harmonie Calm Comforting Milky Gel-Cream Mask) I've been using daily, as well as during my mini-facials. My favorite product of the group- well, it's actually a tie between the Aromessence Rose D'Orient (it's a serum I've been using at night and my skin loves me for it in the morning) and the Harmonie Calm Comforting Milky Gel-Cream Mask (smells good, feels good on and it's extremely nourishing- a must during my mini-facial). They're all definitely worth checking out!

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

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Ask Mischo Beauty...

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

"I just wanted to know if you have any suggestions on what I can do about the dark spots on my face. How can I get rid of them without a chemical peel?"

I could recommend a variety of products to treat your dark spots - called hyperpigmentation, but we really need to get to the bottom of WHY it's happening in the FIRST place! Do you follow a skincare regimen? Have you been consistent with your skincare regimen? Are you using the correct products for your skin type? Is something internal causing the dark spots? Are you allergic to certain ingredients in the products you're using? Do you have sensitive skin?

Ask yourself those questions and be honest with your answers! I'd also recommend a visit to the Dermatologist before you spend money on products! What works for one person, may not necessarily work for you. 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.

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Ask Mischo Beauty...

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

"So I heard that if you're in a crunch and have run out of facial cleanser you can use extra virgin olive oil as a facial cleanser. Is this true? I would think that using an oil to cleanse your face could potentially clog your pores but I am aware of the moisturizing qualities of extra virgin olive oil as well..."

While I don't use this method, I have heard that others love it and swear by it. I think the key is knowing your skin type and skin conditions and using products specifically formulated for it. So if extra virgin olive oil works for you, then use it. And, if you don't have a consistent skincare regimen, there's no better time than now to get started.

Now with that said , the most important step in a skincare regimen, in my opinion, is cleansing. It really is the foundation for healthy skin because it removes makeup, dirt, oil and dead skin cells. And again, my best suggestion is to cleanse your skin with a cleanser specifically formulated for your skin type and skin conditions both morning and night- and be sure to continue on with the remainder of your skincare regimen.

I hope this helps. Please stop back by and let us know how you decide to move forward! And as always, please feel free to send me any additional questions you might have. Love your skin.

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

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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 Loves Clarisonic Opal

I've mentioned my love for the Clarisonic Skincare Brush like a million times, so it's only natural that I share with you all how much I'm loving the Clarisonic Opal. It's a new beauty tool by Clarisonic that uses the "sonic technology" to infuse it's anti-aging sea serum into the skin. It's great for those with fine lines and wrinkles around the eye area - whatever the age, whatever the reason! And for those of you with great skin- well, it's a must-have prevention tool (think hydration and nourishment). I use this a few times a week and it's now a part of my weekly mini-facial regimen. Love it!

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

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Ask Mischo Beauty...

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

"After reading your blog for over a year now, I've finally made the decision to invest in a serious skincare regimen. But, there are so many steps and products to buy! Do I really need to purchase a toner?"

Thank you so much for your support! I really, really appreciate it! Now I'm biased (I'm a licensed esthetician), so yes, I do recommend you purchase one and here's why. I believe that toners are a necessary step in a skincare regimen. And just to clarify - toners, fresheners and astringents are all essentially the same type of product. But, it is important to note that the products do have different properties and vary by strength and alcohol content.

Most often these liquids are used after cleansing, just before a moisturizer is applied. If using during a mini-facial, for instance, then multiple applications are required. Toners are applied by using a cotton ball/pad or by spraying directly onto the skin. Most fall into the following categories below:

- Fresheners: Beneficial for dry, mature and sensitive skin. Often have the lowest to no alcohol content.

- Toners: Beneficial for normal and combination skin. Very low alcohol content; tones or tightens the skin.

- Astringents: Beneficial for oily and acneic skin. Higher alcohol content; helps remove excess oil on the skin, but can be too drying and may cause more harm than good.

So, here are the benefits:

- Removes residue left behind by cleansers.
- Restores the skin's natural pH after cleansing or other treatments.
- Prepares the skin for increased product absorption.
- May improve certain skin conditions (some toners contain
vitamins/antioxidants, etc.).

I hope this helps. Please stop back by and let us know how you decide to move forward! And as always, please feel free to send me any additional questions you might have. Love your skin.

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

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Mischo Beauty School: Peels 101

This post is in response to a few questions I've received from readers wanting to know where- or how, a peel would fit in with regards to exfoliation, and if a peel is too harsh on the skin, if you exfoliate regularly.

Well, the process of removing the excess accumulation of dead skin cells from the outer most layer of skin (epidermis) is referred to as superficial peeling or exfoliation. It can be accomplished mechanically (microdermabrasion), manually (scrubs), or chemically- which is the category that includes "peels".

Peels used by estheticians are designed to penetrate only the epidermis and are noninvasive/nonaggressive. "Deeper peels" which are those used by physicians (dermatologists) penetrate deeper into the skin (dermal layer - also called living tissue - which sits below the epidermis) and may use chemicals such as glycolic acid (50% or more).

So, now that we know that peels are a form of chemical exfoliation, here are a few of the many benefits:

1. Improves skin texture, hydration & moisture retention
2. Increases the rate of cell turnover
3. Improves elastin & collagen production
4. Reduces fine lines, wrinkles and pigmentation issues
5. May control skin conditions such as acne, hyperpigmentation & eczema

So you're probably wondering if you're a candidate for a peel? Well, in my professional opinion, if you could benefit from any of those listed above, then you're definitely a candidate for a peel administered by an esthetician. If exfoliation is a normal part of your skincare regimen, then a professional peel treatment, no more than once a month, should be sufficient.

Now, are you a candidate for a "deeper peel"? Possibly. After a thorough consultation/skin analysis, a dermatologist would best advise you. Please feel free to email me with any questions! Love your skin.

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Do you mix and match skincare brands?

I've been discussing this pretty much all week on Twitter and so if you follow me then you know that I don't recommend it. Maybe I'm biased (I am a licensed esthetician), but the fact of the matter is that products within a skincare line are really formulated to work with one another. Now, I do know that not every product within a line will work for you- and if that's the case, I do feel it's fine to substitute in another brand. But, I do stand firm on using a full regimen from the same brand.

So my question for you today is: Do you mix and match skincare brands?

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Mischo Beauty Pick: Sulwhasoo Skincare

It was announced last summer that Sulwhasoo had opened a boutique on the beauty level at Bergdorf Goodman. Now if you haven't been to the beauty level of Bergdorf's- you are missing out! This particular collection of products peaked my curiosity when I learned that they were considered "medicinal herbal skincare" because they're formulated with a blend of specially selected medicinal herbs meant to promote healthy skin from within. They're also one of the oldest and best selling skincare brands in Korea.

So based on that information and the words "healthy skin" (the goal of a successful skincare regimen should always be healthy skin that glows) I knew I had to try the line! And because I liked the products I've tried so much, I called Bergdorf's to learn more. I was told that Sulwhasoo offers complimentary 1 hour facials (no extractions), custom to individual skin types/conditions. I love it and can't wait to book my appointment!

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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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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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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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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Ask Mischo Beauty...

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

"So what can I do about these stubborn blackheads? I've had it!"

Well, lets first understand what exactly blackheads are! So blackheads, technically called "open comedones", are simply a build up of hardened oil and dead skin cells in a hair follicle. When the hair follicle is exposed to oxygen, it oxidizes and turns black- therefore the name "blackhead". Usually they're present on oily skin or skin types with an oily t-zone.

Here are a few ways to prevent them:

1. A consistent skincare regimen is key!
2. Use skincare products with noncomedogenic ingredients (will prevent pores from clogging).
3. Incorporate an exfoliant into your skincare regimen (will remove dead skin cells).
4. Incorporate a "clay-based" mask into your skincare regimen (will draw excess oil out of follicle).
5. Incorporate facials, by an esthetician, into your skincare regimen (the benefits are countless!).

And most importantly- again, a consistent skincare regimen is key! 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.

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

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Mischo Beauty School: Facial Masks 101

As a follow-up to the question I answered earlier this week on mask types, I thought I'd repost this lesson on masks. A great mask can do wonders for the skin. Masks are designed as an intensive treatment for different skin needs/issues. Generally, there are two types of masks: setting masks and non-setting masks.

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.

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Mischo Beauty Pick: Supermodels by Nude Skincare

It's not what you think! The "Supermodels" are actually the very best of Nude Skincare's top selling cult favorites which are packaged together in a kit to "transform and revitalize" your skin - if used consistently. The set includes:

- Cleansing Facial Oil
- Moisturizing Body Cream
- Advanced Eye Complex
- Age Defence Moisturizer
- Replenishing Night Oil
- Miracle Mask

Now can I just tell you how much I'm loving this kit? I've finally gotten a chance to use it consistently for the past few weeks and I've used the Cleansing Facial Oil, Advanced Eye Cream and Replenishing Night Oil down to the very last drop! This kit, along with the Advanced Cellular Renewal Serum (yes, I believe in serums!) have all given me life! It's kept my skin clear and I love waking up looking refreshed (thanks to the Replenishing Night Oil) - even when I've only had a few hours of sleep! You all know I swear by consistent skincare regimens because how else will you ever see the results you desire?

Knowing your skin type and using products specific to it, really are the key! If you're wanting to start a regimen or are curious about Nude Skincare, then the Supermodel kit is a great introduction to their best products and possibly a wonderful start to mastering a consistent skincare regimen.

Have you tried Nude Skincare?

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Mischo Beauty School: Serums 101

After using Nude Skincare's Advanced Cellular Renewal Serum for the past few weeks and loving it, I thought it would only be appropriate to remind you of the many benefits of serums. And yes, you really should consider incorporating one into your skincare regimen!

A serum is simply a highly concentrated treatment of active ingredients used to penetrate and treat various skin conditions such as dehydration, stress, environmental damage, fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation issues or loss of elasticity.

They're usually made up of vitamins, lipids or antioxidants and are usually the consistency of a thin liquid. To allow for maximum penetration into the skin, they're formulated with smaller molecules which make them extremely effective. They can be used both day and night and are usually applied under a moisturizer, but can be used alone. During a facial an esthetician might apply a serum under your mask or before the application of your moisturizer, depending on your specific skincare needs.

So, do you need a serum? Well, I would suggest following a consistent skincare regimen first. Once you're consistent with your regimen, really begin to pay attention to your skin and make note- for example- of dehydrated areas, loss of elasticity and dullness. If your skincare regimen doesn't correct these issues, then I'd highly suggest investing in a serum! Please feel free to e-mail me with questions! Love your skin.

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