This past Sunday I was invited back to The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, and this time it was to experience the launch of the new signature facial by Natura Bisse.  Now the timing of this invitation could not have been more perfect, because as you can see here I’ve been using a regimen of Natura Bisse products as part of my at-home skincare routine for a few months now.  So, I obviously jumped at the opportunity to experience a professionally administered facial with these products in their purified air bubble!

As I’ve mentioned before, the level of service you receive at The Spa is like no other!  I definitely arrived early in an effort to take full advantage of the “Heat and Water Oasis” (which you can use before or after a treatment), which includes use of the Amethyst Steam Room, the Experience Shower, Ice Fountain and Vitality Pool. It’s always the perfect way to unwind and relax before a treatment.

My Natura Bisse Signature Facial included a deep cleanse, followed by the preparation of the skin for the Glyco Extreme Peel, which was followed by a facial massage, Essential Shock Finishing Mask, eye treatment and moisturizer.  The Glyco Extreme Peel is a triple exfoliating system which works to eliminate dead skin cells and impurities while leaving the skin renewed, smooth and radiant.  And I loved that Natalia, the esthetican, applied the peel not only to my face, but also my neck and decollete (my second face) – very important!  The highlight of the facial was definitely the purified air bubble – which is filled with 99.999% pure oxygen so the air inside the bubble enhances the facial.

Following the facial, I enjoyed champagne, hors d’oeuvres, and a makeup application.  I happily left The Spa with the Natura Bisse Facial Cleansing Gel + A. H. A., Diamond Extreme Eye, Daily Defense Oil-Free Fluid SPF 30, Essential Shock Mask and the Oxygen Finishing Mask.  And most important of all – it’s day five and my skin is STILL glowing!  I highly recommend this facial.

Have you visited The Spa at Mandarin Oriental yet?

I know what you’re thinking!  Another day, another hair oil – right?  Well, if that happens to be the case then today is a new day!  I picked this oil up from the salon a few weeks ago and I’ve fallen all the way in love with it.  It’s like no oil I’ve tried before – and you all know I’ve tried them ALL (jojoba, coconut, castor, argan, moroccan, etc.)!

I have type 4 hair and if you know anything about my hair type then you know it’s thick, kinky and coarse.  And finding the right products for my hair most times involves mixing up a hair cocktail of a few different products. So to my surprise, this oil consistently leaves my hair feeling soft and silky – all by itself!

It smells amazing and is not greasy – which I still can’t believe.  It’s formulated with anti-oxidants and so I love knowing that my hair not only looks good, but most importantly is protected!

What’s your favorite hair oil?

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

“I have a really quick question for you!  I mix and match my skincare products – is that ok?”

Let me qualify my response by reminding everyone that as well as being a beauty blogger, I have a degree in Chemistry and I am also a licensed cosmetologist, esthetician, manicurist and makeup artist.  So my response is not only based on my personal experiences, but it is also based on having studied skin, skincare products and having worked on many, many clients.

With that said, 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.

Also,it’s important to know your skin type and skin conditions if you don’t already.  This information is key to knowing how to properly care for your skin and in making the proper adjustments when necessary!

I hope this helps!

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

I was asked to participate on a panel for the upcoming “Style with EDEN” event and I am too excited!  The brand is headed back to DC to unveil their new Coconut Shea Collection – and trust me, you do not want to miss this!!!  Follow this link to learn more and RSVP.  Looking forward to seeing you all there!

Though I’ve written tons about another skincare brush on the blog, I was more than happy to try the Spa Sonic when contacted by the brand’s PR!  This brush set totally reminds me of the brush machines I used during my esthetics program and I love that you’re able to change the brush head based on your skin’s needs.  It’s battery operated, travel friendly and very easy to clean.  My advice, when using any beauty tool, is to read  and follow the manufacturer’s directions –  and remember, less is more!

Have you tried the Spa Sonic?  If so, do you love it?

Happy Friday, beauties!  What.  a. week.  Whew!  Normally I’d say that I was looking forward to unwinding, but not this weekend.  I have work to do!  I’m working on an exciting new venture that I can’t wait to tell you all more about in the coming months!!!

But, until then, please keep checking the blog for the best in beauty.  And if you’ve joined Vine (a social media application that allows you to record quick 6 second videos!) then please let me know so that I can follow you.  As always, I’m “@mischobeauty” on Vine!

I’m feeling like the luckiest girl in the world today because I’m featured on Skinects.com! I was asked to share my insight on spring time skincare regimens by the site’s founder/cosmetic chemist, Ni’Kita Wilson. And like this blog, Skinects.com’s purpose is to educate readers on the importance of knowing your skin type and how to properly care for it.

So please check it out, forward the link to a friend and spread the word! And of course, continue to send me your beauty questions and they just might be featured in the next “Ask Mischo Beauty“!

If you’ve been following me on Instagram, then you know I’ve been posting “#thedailylippie” – which is just my lip color for the day. It’s been fun and I’m having a ball doing it! So when Glam asked me for my feedback on Maybelline’s new “Color Whisper” collection – it was right on time!

First of all, I love collection of colors. It’s already spring in my head, so these are perfect. The lip shades are a mix of a lipstick, lip tint and moisture balm – all in one. I love that they are very moisturizing, while giving you a hint of color.

My favorites from the collection are “Pin Up Peach”, “Go Nude” and “Orange Attitude”.  My best beauty tip to ensure a perfect application and long-wear is to make sure you exfoliate and moisturize your lips BEFORE application. Exfoliation will remove all the dead skin from your lips and moisturizing before application will ensure that your lips are soft and smooth.

To view the entire collection of shades be sure to visit the Maybelline Color Whisper website and participate in the “Dare to Whisper” sweepstakes. Select any color and share your “whisper” for a chance to win all 20 shades, or select the Coral Ambition shade and fill in the blank for a chance to win $5,000!

Good-luck!

Maybelline New York’s Color Whisper™ by Color Sensational® empowers you to make a statement in soft, sexy sheer color. Because sometimes a whisper says more than a shout. Dare to whisper for a chance to win fab prizes: http://www.maybelline.com/colorwhisper.aspx

Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Maybelline via Glam Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Maybelline

There’s no denying the beauty of this haircolor. The color, along with the cut, undoubtedly make it a work of art. This is the reason I took my love of beauty a step further and pursued cosmetology school, apprenticed with the top salons in the country and continuously pursue advanced education. An amazing example of “Beauty is Art” such as this needs to be shared with the world – and that is why this blog exists.

photo: goldwell.com

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

“I have problem acne in my t-zone, especially my chin. I have managed to get it under control for the most part with a regular skin-care regimen (and some pretty excellent Dermalogica products), but around monthly cycle time it always flares its ugly head. My main issue at this point is how to get rid of the light marks that are left after the breakout disappears. My chin looks speckly with discolored spots from years of dealing with this. What can I do and how long will it take to even out my skin tone in those areas that need it? If the solution is topical, do I apply all over, or just spot treat?”

First – I love, love, love that you are following a consistent skincare regimen and it sounds as though you’re using the correct products for your skin type.  Yay!  Now there are a few ways to deal with your skin condition – the monthly breakouts that are causing the light marks (hypopigmentation) on your chin.

I would suggest a series of peel treatments – either those for at-home use or those administered by an esthetician at a spa.  Peels are a chemical form of exfoliation and work to reduce fine lines, wrinkles and pigmentation issues.  They help control acne and skin conditions such a hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation and eczema.  A series of treatments, along with your consistent skincare regimen, should produce the results you’re seeking.

But, if not, then you should see a dermatologist!  After a thorough consultation and skin analysis, a dermatologist would definitely best advise you.

I hope this helps!

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