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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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.

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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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Ask Mischo Beauty...

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

"Burned my cheeks exfoliating. Feels like sunburn. Any suggestions?"

I hate to hear that that has happened to you. While I am pro-exfoliation because of it's many benefits, I do believe in the "less is more rule". And so over-exfoliation or too-much exfoliation will definitely irritate the skin and could cause premature aging.

As a licensed esthetician, my recommendation is to make sure you're using the correct exfoliation product for your particular skin type. Physical/mechanical exfoliants (scrubs, beads, etc.) may be too rough for certain skin types - so be careful and follow the manufacturer's directions on correct product usage.

To treat your irritated/inflamed skin, try using products formulated for sensitive skin. Be very gentle with product application and removal. Also, try using a gel mask which will both calm and soothe your skin, along with providing hydration and nourishment.

If the condition persists- please see a dermatologist! 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 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 Loves Clarisea Salt Scrub (ISPA 2010)

Because I love sharing the "wonders of exfoliation" (yes, I believe in exfoliation) it was only natural that I visited Clarisea's booth while at the ISPA expo. Believe it or not, I'd never heard of Clarisea, which was created to treat acneic skin types/conditions - both face and body. Now I don't have issues with acne, but I can appreciate the benefits of a great scrub for the body, so I decided to give the Body Scrub a try. I applied it to my dry skin before showering (for a more thorough exfoliation), and followed it with my body wash and a creamy body butter. I was more than pleased with my results!

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: Mini-Facials with DERMAdoctor Skin Care

I've been tweeting for the past couple of weeks about using a regimen of Dermadoctor skin care products during my mini-facials, and I'm finally ready to share the results with you! And just to refresh your memory, my mini-facial steps are very easy- and you will benefit from making them a part of your skincare routine. So the steps are simply:

- Cleanse
- Tone
- Steam Treatment
- Exfoliate
- Tone
- Mask
- Tone
- Apply eye cream & serum
- Apply moisturizer

I used an anti-aging regimen of Dermadoctor products which consisted of:

- Wrinkle Revenge 1 (cleanser)
- Physical Chemistry (exfoliant)
- Wrinkle Revenge Rescue & Protect Eye Balm (eye cream)
- Litmus Test (moisturizer)

I also added the following:

- Clarisonic Skincare Brush
- Dermalogica Multi-Active Toner
- Dermalogica Skin Hydrating Masque

Now I opted not to add a steam treatment to this regimen because of it being exfoliant-heavy (the cleanser acted as a gentle exfoliant, and the exfoliant itself was a combination of a peel and microdermabrasion treatment!), and I didn't want to over-stimulate my skin. The "less is more" rule applies here!

I used this complete regimen every Sunday evening for a month and my results were exactly what I'd hoped for- radiant skin each time! This regimen is rich in glycolic acid (exfoliating) and antioxidants (repairing & protecting), so it works for a variety of skin types and issues. But, my best advice is always to buy for your particular skin type and conditions. Search for a regimen that works for you, and when you find it- use it consistently and you should experience results similar to mine!

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 your least favorite spa treatment?

I had to ask this question after sharing with you all yesterday, the fact that I hate body scrub treatments at spas. So now it's your turn to share!

So my question for you today is: What's your least favorite spa treatment?

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Mischo Beauty Loves Three Whishes Pomegranate Sugar Scrub

As much as I love "spa-ing", I must admit - the service I like the least is anything having to do with a scrub! It's really weird, because I believe in exfoliation- you all know that I preach the "wonders of exfoliation" on this blog! Not to mention, my bathroom is full of exfoliants for the face, body, and feet. I exfoliate a few times a week, and don't mind doing it myself. I guess I dislike this spa service, in particular, because it's not relaxing or pampering- it's actually uncomfortable, but so necessary...

Anyway, back to the post! So I'm currently loving Three Whishes Pomegranate Sugar Scrub for two reasons. First, it's gentle on my skin (I'm not a fan of "rough" body scrubs with large granules- they make me feel like my skin is being scratched up!), and second- I love the scent. The bonus is that the scrub is all natural, made with organic ingredients, and is free of parabens, sulfates and petrochemicals!

Oh, and a quick tip I learned while in esthetics school- for a more thorough exfoliation-apply your exfoliant to dry skin (before showering), and then follow it with your normal shower routine (body wash, moisturizer, etc.) - the difference is amazing!

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: Exfoliation 101

I'm sure you all are aware of the benefits of exfoliation (especially since the weather is colder/drier), but if you aren't, here's another very quick lesson! Exfoliation is simply the removal of dry, dead surface skin cells. An exfoliant is an ingredient that assists in the exfoliation process. Alpha hydroxy acids and gentle scrubs are examples of what would be called a chemical exfoliant and a physical exfoliant, respectively. You should incorporate exfoliation into your skincare regimen (as I've mentioned before!) and here are the reasons why:

1. Leaves skin feeling silky smooth!
2. Facilitates the extraction of dirt/oil that clogs pores (helps prevent acne!)
3. Faster cell turnover rate (keeps skin younger looking!)
4. Improves the skin's ability to retain moisture (prevents dry skin!)
5. Helps penetration/delivery of product ingredients into the skin
6. Stimulates blood flow
7. Smooth skin makes the application of makeup easier!

Any questions? Love your skin.

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Mischo Beauty: Qtica Smart Spa Cherry Bing Collection

If you're in need of a "pick-me-up" then I suggest checking out Qtica Smart Spa's new collection of Cherry Bing bath and body products. Qtica is most widely known for their assortment of nail treatments, but most recently launched the Smart Spa collection of products, meant to be used not only for manicures/pedicures, but all over the body as well.

The Cherry Bing scent smells amazingly good - and I think it's perfect for summer. The products I tried were the Sugar Scrub, Shower Gel and Luxury Lotion. The stand-out product for me was the Sugar Scrub (you all probably remember that I'm an exfoliant addict) because I loved how gentle it felt on my skin, and also the fact that it left it soft and smooth- along with the amazing scent!

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Mischo Beauty Loves NettieScrub

For those of you who may not know, NettieScrub is a line of bath, body and candle products created by celebrity manicurist, Nettie Davis. The products are formulated with both natural and organic ingredients and packaged in sustainable/reusable packaging.

My picks include the Grapefruit Body Buff (a great exfoliant for the whole body) and the Grapefruit Body Balm (perfect for dry cuticles, hands, elbows, knees and feet)- I'm partial to citrus scents and these don't disappoint with leaving skin soft and smooth.

If you've tried these products, please let us know your thoughts!

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Mischo Beauty Review: The Lip Scrub by Sara Happ

I've been reading about this product for some time now and the exfoliant addict in me has been dying to try it. The Lip Scrub by Sara Happ is a physical exfoliant/scrub (the main ingredient is sugar) used to remove dead surface skin cells on the lips. So if you suffer from chapped lips, dry skin, etc., you should check this out.

I loved the cinnamon scent of the Cinnamon Sugar lip scrub and I also loved the fact that it's easy to use. All you need to do is massage the scrub on your lips and remove it with a tissue. Very easy, and it leaves the skin on your lips soft and smooth. The lip scrub also comes in Almond Creme, Peppermint, Vanilla Bean, Brown Sugar and Cocoa. For those of you needing a refresher on the benefits of exfoliants, please check out my post here.

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Mischo Beauty School: Mini-Facials 101 & Mario Badescu

So those of you who follow me on Twitter know that I sent out a few "tweets" yesterday about the mini-facial I was giving myself. Mini-facials, like facials, are my "essential beauty product" - they're vital to maintaining my skin's health in between facial appointments.

I've decided to share my mini-facial routine with you because everyone can benefit from it- whether you receive monthly facials or not. My best advice is to invest in great products for your skin type/issues, and make mini-facials a part of your skincare routine. My skin type is normal/combination, with an oily t-zone and I used the following Mario Badescu products:

Cleanser: Enzyme Cleansing Gel ( all skin types)
Toner: Cucumber Cleansing Lotion (combination & oily skin types)
Exfoliant: (my own)
Mask: Enzyme Revitalizing Mask (combination, dry & sensitive skin types)
Eye Cream: Hyaluronic Eye Cream (all skin types)
Night Cream: Seaweed Night Cream (combination, oily & sensitive skin types)
Moisturizer: Collagen Moisturizer SPF 15 (combination & sensitive skin types)

So the steps are simply: Cleanse (Enzyme Cleansing Gel), Tone (Cucumber Cleansing Lotion), Steam Treatment, Exfoliate, Tone, Mask (Enzyme Revitalizing Mask), Tone & Moisturize (Hyaluronic Eye Cream, Seaweed Night Cream or Collagen Moisturizer SPF 15)!

So there you have it! Very easy- and anyone can do this! Please leave your questions in the comments section below and I'll get right back to you. Love your skin.

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Mischo Beauty Pick: LaLicious Lily Mango Sugar Souffle Scrub & Body Butter

While we're on the subject of at-home spa treatments, you've got to try the product offerings by a brand called Lalicious! I'm using the Lily Mango Sugar Souffle Scrub & Body Butter and I'm loving the textures of both products- the cane sugar crystals in the scrub are finely ground, so I don't feel as though I'm scratching my skin, but I will tell you that the body butter (with a shea butter base) takes a while to absorb- in my opinion. The "Lily Mango" scent smells so good and I love, love, love the fact that the products are all natural, and paraben and sulfate free!

Body scrub/exfoliating treatments at day spas aren't relaxing and pampering for me, though of course I clearly understand the benefits. I prefer to scrub/exfoliate at home in my shower and then follow the treatment with a rich, creamy body butter- and these products allowed me to do just that. My skin feels amazing after using the combination of the two products!

Have you tried any of the LaLicious products?

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Mischo Beauty Pick: Juicy Couture Bath and Body Collection

If you're like me you probably have a few bath products you keep in rotation. Depending on my mood, I have my products I call my "pick-me-ups", those I use for relaxation, those for detoxing, etc. Well I'm currently using a set of products by Juicy Couture which includes the Frothy Shower Gel, Body Sorbet, Sumptuous Sugar Scrub, Royal Body Creme and the Decadent Dusting Powder. Oh and I can't forget to mention the Scented Candle, with top notes of passion fruit, melon, marigold, apple, water hyacinth and crushed leaves.

Using these products together seriously makes me feel like I'm in heaven and they've been added to my rotation! The scents are amazing. And of course, I've been asked which of all the products is my favorite- well, I'm loving them all, but if I just had to choose I'd say the Scented Candle and the Sumptuous Sugar Scrub.

The scent of the candle is so light and refreshing and seems to last for hours. Those of you who've been following my blog know that I'm addicted to exfoliating, so of course I'm loving the Sumptuous Sugar Scrub. I love soft and smooth skin and this doesn't disappoint. Oh and I need to mention the texture of the Decadent Dusting Powder (which is made with real crushed pearls), it's so silky and very easy to apply with the included pink puff.

So if you're thinking about treating yourself for Valentine's Day, then you should definitely consider this. Why? Because you're totally worth it!

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Mischo Beauty Review: L'Oreal RevitaLift Radiant Smoothing Cream Cleanser

This cleanser really surprised me! I'm not sure of what I was expecting, but it definitely exceeded any expectations I might have had. The texture is somewhat thick, rich and very creamy- definitely heavier than a foaming face wash or a cleansing lotion. I tested this cleanser with my Clarisonic Skincare Brush- and in all seriousness- I ended up with a new layer of skin!

Thought it's a creamy cleanser, it also contains micro beads which exfoliate dead skin cells. Your skin is left soft, smooth and thoroughly cleansed! It also contains Vitamin C, which as most of you already know, is a very important anti-aging nutrient. Normally, creamy cleansers are recommended for very dry and mature skin types, but after reading the manufacturer's directions, I realized it's suggested for all skin types.

I personally would only use this during the dry, cold winter months- and I'd probably only use it two, maybe three times a week. It's a little heavy for my skin type (normal with an oily t-zone), but I do appreciate it's effectiveness. Oh, and because it's thicker than most cleansers, I'd recommend following it with a toner (for your skin type) to ensure there's no residue left behind and to restore the skin's natural pH.

Have you tried this cleanser?

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Mischo Beauty School: Peels 101

This post is in response to a few questions from fellow beauty blogger, Yummy 411. She wanted to know where a peel fits in with regards to exfoliation, and if a peel is too harsh on your 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 (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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Mischo Beauty Review: L'Oreal's Skin Genesis Wet Cleansing Towelettes

Because I loved the Daily Treatment Serum Concentrate and Daily Moisturizer Oil-Free Lotion, both part of L'Oreal's Skin Genesis collection of products, I gladly welcomed the opportunity to try the Wet Cleansing Towelettes! There are two reasons why I really liked using these- the first, was the fact that they remove eye makeup-completely! Yes, they do!

The second reason was the fact that not only do these contain a cleansing agent (no need to use a cleanser too!), but they are formulated with BHA (beta hydroxy acid) which is an exfoliant that works to remove dead skin cells, which in turn helps with cell renewal. I love the way these felt on my skin and I had no issues with dryness. I think these are perfect for travel and for the price, I suggest giving them a try!

Have you tried these yet?

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Mischo Beauty Pick: Dr. Susan Taylor's Rx for Brown Skin

I've fallen in love with Dr. Susan Taylor's Rx for Brown Skin's Body Lotion and Body Butter. I started testing them out about a month ago and I'm pleased with the results. Both are formulated with a blend of olive fruit extract and natural essential oils of orange, bergamot, mandarin and rosewood- which all work to brighten and purify the skin. What sets them apart from other moisturizers is the fact that they're formulated to even skintone and they're developed by a dermatologist!

The body butter is pictured above on the left side of my hand and the body lotion is on the right.
The texture of the body butter is rich and creamy and my preference was to use it immediately after a bath, while my skin was still moist and my pores were still open, to ensure maximum absorption. Oh, and my feet loved it too!
I used the body lotion during the day, taking it with me to use as a handcream throughout the day. It's texture is lighter than the body butter, but both absorb quickly and are non-greasy- which I love!
Rx for Brown Skin is the first dermatologist-created skincare line created for women of color (Black, Latina, Asian, Indian, and Middle Eastern) by Dr. Susan Taylor. She's also written a book called "Dr. Susan Taylor's Rx for Brown Skin" which covers beauty basics, top skin-of-color concerns and beauty for life. For those of you who've emailed me with regards to hyperpigmentation and other skincare issues, this is a good reference for you- buy it! She addresses skin pigmentation, scars, acne and other issues.
The product line also includes a Virtual Peel which is a gentle chemical exfoliant. I plan to test it this weekend and include my results in my "Mischo Beauty School: Peels 101" post next Monday.
The Bright and Even Exfoliating Kit was developed for those of you who have issues with hyperpigmentation or dull and uneven skintones. I love it because it's a complete regimen- cleanser, toner, moisturizer and advanced botanical brightener- yay! No guessing or over-thinking required - this is a perfect start for those of you who are making resolutions to take better care of your skin. As I've said before- healthy skin is beautiful skin!

Will you consider this line for your skincare needs?

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