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 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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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 School: Facials 101

I consider facials my "essential beauty product" because not only are facials relaxing and pampering, but they are crucial to maintaining the health of your skin. For those of you who've never had a facial, it's a service performed by an esthetician and usually consists of a professional deep cleansing, steam treatment, exfoliation, extractions, massage, mask, moisturizer and possibly other products and treatments.

Not only will facials improve and revive your skin, but they also help maintain the skin's health. You should definitely consider incorporating facials into your beauty regimen! If I haven't convinced you yet- here are a few of the many other benefits:

1. SLOWS DOWN PREMATURE AGING
2. Professional Deep Cleansing, Steam Treatment, Exfoliation, Extractions, Massage & Mask
3. Relaxing/Pampering
4. Increases Circulation & Detoxifies
5. Professional Skin Analysis, Product Recommendation & Custom Home Skincare Regimen
6. Stimulates Skin Renewal & Metabolism
7. Corrects/Alleviates Dryness, Oiliness & Redness
8. Softens Wrinkles & Aging Lines
9. Helps Clear Up Blemishes & Minor Acne
10. SLOWS DOWN PREMATURE AGING

Questions? Anyone had a fabulous facial lately? Love your skin.

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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 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: Facial Cleansing 101

A special thanks to all of you who continue to send me questions on skin, hair and makeup. I love answering your questions- so please keep them coming! Most recently I've received quite a few questions with regards to maintaining a successful skincare regimen and so I'm inviting you all to check out my posts on facials, exfoliation, serums and facial masks. Hopefully the posts will give you additional insight into the different aspects of a skincare regimen.

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 and dead skin cells. A few of the many benefits are:

1. Cleansers dissolve makeup and dirt to unblock pores and prepare the skin for the penetration of other products.

2. Cleansers are available for all skin types and conditions.

3. Cleansers are formulated with ingredients that counteract various skin problems such as sensitivity, acne and capillary problems.

My best suggestion is to cleanse your skin both morning and night and be sure to continue on with the remainder of your skincare regimen.

Any questions? Love your skin.

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Mischo Beauty School: Facials 101

I consider facials my "essential beauty product" because not only are facials relaxing and pampering, but they are crucial to maintaining the health of your skin. For those of you who've never had a facial, it's simply a service performed by an esthetician and usually consists of a professional deep cleansing, steam treatment, exfoliation, extractions, massage, mask, moisturizer and possibly other products and treatments.

Not only will facials improve and revive your skin, but they will also help maintain the skin's health. You should definitely consider incorporating facials into your beauty regimen! If I haven't convinced you yet- here are a few of the many other benefits:

1. SLOWS DOWN PREMATURE AGING
2. Professional Deep Cleansing, Steam Treatment, Exfoliation, Extractions, Massage & Mask
3. Relaxing/Pampering
4. Increases Circulation & Detoxifies
5. Professional Skin Analysis, Product Recommendation & Custom Home Skincare Regimen
6. Stimulates Skin Renewal & Metabolism
7. Corrects/Alleviates Dryness, Oiliness & Redness
8. Softens Wrinkles & Aging Lines
9. Helps Clear Up Blemishes & Minor Acne
10. SLOWS DOWN PREMATURE AGING

Questions? Anyone had a fabulous facial lately? 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 School: Microdermabrasion 101

I've been writing about the benefits of exfoliation and how important it is to incorporate it into your skincare regimen for over a year now, and last week we discussed peels, which are a form of chemical exfolation. This week I'd like to discuss microdermabrasion, which is a mechanical form of exfoliation.

As I've stated, microdermabrasion is a mechanical form of exfoliation that involves the use of a vacuum to spray microcrystals across the skin in order to resurface the outermost layer of skin. It is a noninvasive procedure and the benefits include improved skin texture, moisture retention, elastin and collagen production, and the reduction of fine lines, wrinkles, and pigmentation issues. You might be a candidate for this procedure if you've experienced the following:

- Sun Damage
- Coarse textured skin
- Enlarged pores
- Fine lines
- Wrinkles
- Pigmentation problems

The service includes a professional cleansing, massage, microdermabrasion, a soothing mask and the application of a moisturizer with a sunscreen. In order to achieve the best results, you really need to commit to a series (with each procedure 7-10 days apart) and be consistent with your home skincare regimen. The results from this procedure are amazing and those who've experienced the benefits from it, recommend it without reservation!

I've had this procedure performed on myself while completing my esthetics program. I'm not a candidate for it because I have easily sensitized skin, and it is not recommended if you have sensitive skin or scar easily. The procedure can be uncomfortable and you might experience some sensitivity which usually goes away shortly thereafter. If improperly performed, it might cause hypopigmentation/hyperpigmentation (light/dark discoloration of the skin).

If you're considering this treatment, I would highly suggest having a thorough consultation with your esthetician. Based on a discussion about your lifestyle and medical history, it would be determined if it was appropriate for you. Love your skin.

Have you had microdermabrasion? If so, what were the results?

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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 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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Mischo Beauty School: Extractions 101

This post is in response to a question from fellow beauty blogger, MakeupByRenRen. She wanted to know what the extraction process involved and if it was painful. So in response to her questions, I've decided to dedicate this post to extractions.

The extraction process involves the manual removal of build-up and blackheads, which helps to unblock clogged areas and minimize the size of pores. Basically, oil and other forms of build-up are extracted from the hair follicles. There are three ways in which this can be done- the esthetician may wrap index fingers with cotton, use cotton swabs or use a comedone extractor, which is a metal tool.

During a facial, the esthetician will cleanse, exfoliate and treat the skin with steam in order to soften pores and prepare for extractions. Next, pressure is applied around the skin surrounding the hair follicle in order to extract the impaction. The procedure might be uncomfortable, but should be painless. As long as you're seeing an experienced esthetician, you should have no worries!

That's pretty much the easiest answer, without going into too much detail. Please feel free to email me with any questions!

Love your skin.

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Mischo Beauty Review: Bluemercury Apothecary and Spa

For those of you who follow my Twitter updates, you know that I headed to Georgetown early Saturday morning for a facial at Bluemercury Apothecary and Spa. Facials are my "essential beauty product", because not only are facials relaxing and pampering, but they are crucial to maintaining the health of your skin. This was my first spa treatment with Bluemercury and I was too excited!

Lance, my esthetician for the day, explained that the Brightening Facial, which was what I'd be receiving, would "lighten, brighten & tighten"! Now this facial is specifically recommended for those dealing with issues relating to discoloration, hyperpigmentation, sun damage or age spots. It's also suggested for those who might be suffering from dull skin and needing a "pick-me-up". Well I fell into the last category and knew that a professional exfoliation treatment would be just what my skin needed- and after my consultation with Lance, I felt assured that I was in good hands.

This facial included cleansing, toning, a glycolic peel, extractions (which I opted out of and was given an herbal clay mask in its place), a vitamin C treatment, vitamin oxygen blast and a moisturizer. After Lance had finished my facial and I'd been given the opportunity to see the results, I could see that my skin looked refreshed and renewed - and definitely brighter! It felt so soft and amazingly smooth!

This is a facial treatment worth investing in for guaranteed results and it's the perfect way to prepare for the upcoming holiday season. I also recommend this to those of you heading to DC for the Inauguration festivities! For additional Bluemercury locations, please visit www.bluemercury.com

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Mischo Beauty Pick: Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant

Many of you know that I attended Mercedes Benz Fashion Week this past September, during which time Dermalogica treated me to a complementary Face Map skin analysis and introduced their newest products. I was sent home with a detailed prescription of products to best care for my specific skincare needs. Well, I received my prescribed products and one of them happened to be one of my favorites, Dermalogica's Daily Microfoliant.

I can't stress enough the need to incorporate exfoliation into your skincare regimen because it's one of the best ways to keep your skin looking young, refreshed and vibrant! This product is AMAZING and my skin is always unbelievably soft and smooth after each use. You can probably guess my age- or close to it- if you've been following my blog, but most people think I'm at least 10 years younger than I actually am! I attribute most of that to my genes and the rest to a consistent skincare regimen.

Here's how it works- it's a rice-based enzyme powder that activates once you mix it with water. It contains rice bran and rice starch which exfoliate surface skin cells. Papain enzyme and salicylic acid dissolve skin cells, and green tea, ginkgo and colloidal oatmeal all calm the skin, leaving it smooth and vibrant. The combination of all the ingredients helps to even skin tone.

It's gentle enough to use daily, but my preference is to use it 2 -3 times a week after double-cleansing and before I apply my mask. This is definitely a winner and worth the investment! I highly recommend it.

Have you tried this? What's your favorite Dermalogica product?

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Mischo Beauty School: Facials 101

First, please accept my apologies for the delay in posting! I traveled home to Indiana for the Thanksgiving holiday and had some unforeseen computer issues. I do truly appreciate all of your patience and support!

So I'm posting about facials again due to the many questions I've received from those of you who follow my Twitter updates. I try to give myself a mini-facial once a week and recently decided to include the steps on Twitter. For those of you who've never had a facial, here's a basic lesson.

I consider facials my "essential beauty product", because not only are facials relaxing and pampering, but they are crucial to maintaining the health of your skin. For those of you who've never had a facial, it's simply a service performed by an esthetician and usually consists of a professional deep cleansing, steam treatment, exfoliation, extractions, massage, mask, moisturizer and possibly other products and treatments.

Not only do facials improve and revive your skin, but they also help maintain the skin's health. You should definitely consider incorporating facials into your beauty regimen! If I haven't convinced you yet- here are a few of the many other benefits:

1. SLOWS DOWN PREMATURE AGING
2. Professional Deep Cleansing, Steam Treatment, Exfoliation, Extractions, Massage, Mask & Moisturizer
3. Relaxing/Pampering
4. Increases Circulation & Detoxifies
5. Professional Skin Analysis, Product Recommendation & Custom Home Skincare Regimen
6. Stimulates Skin Renewal & Metabolism
7. Corrects/Alleviates Dryness, Oiliness & Redness
8. Softens Wrinkles & Aging Lines
9. Helps Clear Up Blemishes & Minor Acne
10. SLOWS DOWN PREMATURE AGING

Questions? Anyone had a fabulous facial lately? Love your skin.

Read More......