Mischo Beauty School: Haircuts 101

I continue to receive the same question with regards to how to go about achieving a great haircut. It's actually a perfect time to revisit this topic- with the arrival of Fall, it's a great time to consider reinventing your look! But, just last week I had my own hair cut and hated it! I know exactly why my haircut went wrong. Though I've been seeing the same stylist for about a year now- I guess I've just gotten too comfortable with her. There was no consultation and no discussion of haircut photos, and I ended up with a lopsided haircut. For those that read my FHI Heat Platform 1" Special Edition review last week, you know that I went home and washed my hair out in an effort to try to fix my bad haircut!

At any rate, every haircut is made up of a combination of basic techniques used to create varying shapes and effects on the hair. Before having your haircut, I recommend the following:

- Consultation with stylist (discuss face shape, hair texture and lifestyle)

- Review haircut pictures with stylist

- Consider home maintenance requirements

- Be realistic

Taking the above into consideration will ensure that you and the stylist agree on the best direction and that the stylist has adequate information to achieve the desired end result. Please feel free to e-mail me with any questions. Oh, and I'd love to hear your haircut stories! Love your hair.

(photos courtesy of behindthechair.com & Janell Geason, NAHA Make-Up Artist of the Year/)

Mischo Beauty School: Serums 101

Please accept my apologies with the delayed posts- life seems to be getting in the way! Anyway I'm back and today I'd like to share with you the benefits of serums. I believe in serums and am amazed at how the skin benefits from them! A serum is 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 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! Questions? Love your skin.

Mischo Beauty School: Exfoliation 101 (Part 2)

Who knew that over-exfoliation or too-much exfoliation could lead to premature aging? Well it's true! Just when you thought you were taking the necessary steps to ensure that you’re rid of all the oil, dirt, and debris that clog your pores causing break-outs and acne you learn that too-much can be damaging! Over-exfoliation can cause irritation/inflammation, and when our normal cellular functions have to work to combat this, the result is a break down in collagen, elastin and hydration. The end result is dry, wrinkled, sagging skin. I must admit that I've been guilty of this and had to learn the hard way by having to deal with irritated skin. As an esthetician, my recommendation is to use an exfoliation product for your particular skin type, no more than 2-3 times a week. Always consult your esthetician or the manufacturer’s directions for correct product usage information.

Please feel free to e-mail me with any questions! Love your skin.

Mischo Beauty School: Hair Porosity 101

I've received a few emails asking me to discuss the reason(s) why hair becomes damaged and dry after certain chemical services. Well, there could quite possibly be hundreds of answers to those questions depending on the history of services performed on the hair and the home care regimen. I will say that if your hair is damaged and overly dry, then your hair's porosity has probably been compromised. So what is porosity? Porosity is simply the ability of the hair to absorb and retain moisture and is used to describe the condition of hair. It falls into the following categories:

a. Very porous
b. Porous
c. Normal
d. Resistant

A “normal” porosity will mean that the cuticle (outermost layer of the hair shaft) is closed and smooth. Healthy hair will usually have a normal to resistant cuticle, depending on the texture. ”Porous” to “very porous” hair will have a roughened cuticle meaning that the hair is probably damaged. It usually loses moisture very easy and is easily damaged.

So, to determine the porosity of your hair, feel it - both when it's wet and dry. If it feels like straw and it's rough when it's dry, or if it feels gummy or slightly rubbery when it's wet, then you probably have a problem with porous to very porous hair. You should definitely talk to your stylist before receiving any chemical services in order to prevent further damage. Haircolor, perms and relaxers will process much faster on porous to very porous hair and may cause damage.

Porous to very porous hair can be caused by:

1. Over coloring
2. Bleaching
3. Permanent Waving
4. Relaxing
5. Flat/curling irons
6. Improper blow-drying
7. Environment (sun, salt/chlorinated water)

Please feel free to e-mail me with more questions! Love your hair.

Phyto Phytophanere Dietary Supplement - Hair & Nails 120 Caplets
Rene Furterer Vitalfan Antichute Thin Hair 60 Capsules
Frederic Fekkai AGELESS Damage Defense Capsules 0.45 oz

Mischo Beauty School: Exfoliation 101

I'm sure you all are aware of the benefits of exfoliation, but if you aren't, here's a 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. 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.

Bliss Hot Salt Scrub
Bliss Super Slough Scrub 16 oz
Bliss Vanilla + Bergamot Body Buff 12 oz

Mischo Beauty School: Hair Relaxers & Thinning/Breakage 101

Since my post last week, I've received many e-mails regarding the use of hair relaxers resulting in hair breakage and thinning hair, so I've decided to address this issue. Damage from relaxers could result from a number of different reasons. When you're trying to determine the cause, consider the following:

1. The "strength" of the relaxer might be stronger than that needed for your particular hair texture. Relaxers come in "mild, regular or super" strengths. For example, if your hair texture is "fine" and you choose to relax your hair, you should only use a "mild" strength relaxer. Using anything stronger will definitely result in damage and possibly hair loss!

2. Your stylist may not be applying the relaxer properly. It should ONLY be applied to your NEW hair growth, every 6-9 weeks, or depending on your rate of hair growth. No overlapping onto previously relaxed hair!

3. Thermal styling might be an issue. Are you frequently using a curling iron, flat iron or blow-dryer? If so, they might be contributing to your hair thinning/breakage. If you have relaxed hair, you should use the least amount of heat to style it as possible.

4. Do you color your hair? If you use permanent haircolor, the application should be at least two weeks after relaxing or you will experience thinning/breakage and possibly serious hair loss. Also, because your hair will now have to withstand two chemical processes, you should consider using a mild relaxer.

If you're thinning near the scalp, then it's probably from improper application or overlapping of the relaxer onto the previously relaxed hair.

If you're thinning along the length of the hair, then it's probably due to excessive heat from a curling/flat iron, blow-drying or constant chemical overprocessing.

Hopefully you and your stylist are able to identify the problem and implement a new haircare regimen. My fellow beauty blogger Julia of "All About The Pretty" is treating her hair to some extra TLC with the Kerastase Substance Constructive and loves it!

If you feel that your problem is different from those listed above, I'd recommend you visit a Dermatologist. Please feel free to leave questions in the " Comments" section!

Love your hair.

Kerastase Resistance Bain De Force Shampoo
Kerastase Resistance Ciment Anti - Usure Fortifying Treatment for Damaged Lengths and Ends
Kerastase Resistance Substance Constructive Fortifying Treatment for Weakened Hair, Colored or Permed

Mischo Beauty School: Serums 101

So today I'd like to share with you the benefits of serums. I believe in serums and am amazed at how the skin benefits from them! A serum is 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 skincare regimen first. Once you're consistent with your regimen, really begin to pay attention to your skin and make not- 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!

Love your skin.

Any questions?

Philosophy When Hope Is Not Enough Replenishing Serum 0.85 oz

Caudalie Lifting Serum 1 oz

REN Revivo-Lift H11 Intensive Night Serum 1.02 oz

Mischo Beauty School: Facials 101

I can't begin to name all the reasons why you should incorporate facials into your beauty routine, right now, TODAY! Ok, I'm an esthetician, so I guess I'm a little biased- but seriously you should! I can't begin to tell you again how great my last facial was and how facials are "my essential beauty product"! Not only are facials relaxing and pampering, but they are crucial to maintaining the health of your skin. First, let's understand what exactly a facial is! A facial is a service performed by an esthetician designed to improve and revive the skin. They help maintain the skin's health and correct skin conditions through a professional deep cleansing, massage, and the use of masks and other products and treatments. Here are a few of the many benefits:

1. SLOWS DOWN PREMATURE AGING
2. Professional Deep Cleansing
3. Professional Deep Exfoliation
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

Love your skin.

Anyone had a fabulous facial lately? Please feel free to e-mail me with any questions!

Murad Clarifying Cleanser 6.75 oz
Philosophy Never Let Them See You Shine Cleanser 6 oz
Fresh Soy Formula f21c Face Cleanser To Go 1.7 oz

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 the past few months. This post is in response to a few of my readers who have e-mailed me inquiring about microdermabrasion. They wanted to know what the procedure entailed and who would be the best candidate for it. Well, microdermabrasion is a mechanical form of exfoliation that uses a vacuum to spray microcrystals across the skin. It is a noninvasive procedure that works to resurface the outermost layer of skin. The benefits include improved skin texture, moisture retention, elastin and collagen production, and reduces 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 would include 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.

I've had this procedure performed on me because I was required to while completing my esthetics program, but I'm not a candidate for it because I have easily sensitized skin. 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 you're considering it, 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. If improperly performed, it might cause hypopigmentation/hyperpigmentation (light/dark discoloration of the skin). The results from this procedure are amazing and those who've experienced the benefits from it recommend it without reservation.

Love your skin.

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

DDF-Doctor's Dermatologic Formula Discoloration Reversal-Pod 28 x 0.016 oz applicators

Dr. Brandt Microdermabrasion In A Jar

Lancome RESURFACE-C MICRODERMABRASION - Skin Polishing and Radiance Renewing System Resurface-C Microdermabrasion Kit

Mischo Beauty School: Hair Conditioning 101

Which conditioner should you buy? Well it depends on the condition and texture of your hair. Your stylist will know when to use an instant conditioner for detangling only, or when to use a moisturizing or protein conditioning treatment. Let's understand the differences:

1. Instant conditioners/rinses, left on for only a few minutes, smooth the hair's cuticle which detangles the hair.

2. Moisturizing conditioners, which are allowed to work for 10-20 minutes, restore moisture to the hair, balance the hair's pH, and smooth/coat the hair shaft resulting in control and shine.

3. Protein conditioners are used to strengthen the hair and repair split ends. They are formulated to replace the protein lost in the hair. They should be used according to the manufacturer's directions. Improper use may result in breakage.

Love your hair.

Any questions, comments, thoughts?

Don't forget to enter the TotalBeauty.com Totally Green Sweepstakes!

Mischo Beauty School: "Natural" and "Organic" Beauty Certifications 101

We all know that tomorrow is Earth Day and I felt it only appropriate to provide definitions for those who aren't clear on the terms "Natural" and "Organic" certifications as they relate to beauty products, since I'd previously discussed the "Biodynamic" certification. My hope is that you'll be even more empowered to make informed choices depending on your beauty needs.

Natural Certification:

The natural beauty certification is not regulated by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) or the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (Department of Health & Human Services). It often includes products that are formulated with plant-based and natural ingredients with few to no dyes, synthetic fragrances, petrochemicals, phthalates, sodium lauryl sulfate and parabens.

Organic Certification:

The organic beauty certification in the U.S. is regulated by the USDA's National Organic Program (NOP) which regulates organic foods and ingredients used for personal care products. It includes products who's ingredients are grown free of pesticides, herbicides, and insecticides.

There are four levels of USDA Organic certification, based on percentages of organic ingredients:

1. "100% Certified Organic": Product must contain 100% organic ingredients certified by the USDA and can bear the USDA Organic Seal.

2. "Certified Organic": 95% or higher Certified Organic Ingredients (with strict restriction on the remaining 5%). Product certified by the USDA and can bear the USDA Organic Seal.

3. "Made with Organic Ingredients": 70-94% Certified Organic Ingredients (with strict restrictions on the remaining 30%). Product certified by the USDA but CANNOT bear the USDA Seal.

4. Less than 70% Organic Ingredients: Organic Ingredients can be denoted with an asterisk. Only ingredients are certified by the USDA (NOT the finished product), and the product CANNOT bear the USDA Seal. Product CANNOT call itself organic and the word "organic" may appear on the side or back of the package only.

Love your body.

I'd love to hear your comments and what changes you plan to make to help save the earth!

* For more information on the various activities to set standards and certifications rules for what constitutes "natural" or "organic" personal care products, please visit "The Style Page"!*

(Sources fda.gov, usda.gov & sephora.com)

Mischo Beauty School: At-Home Skincare 101

I posted this earlier this year and felt it only appropriate to post again with the start of the new spring season. For those of you who haven't adopted a skincare regimen, it's never too late! Just about every client I've seen for facials asks me what they should do to maintain the health of their skin in-between facials. Here is my recommendation for an at-home skincare regimen:

1. Cleanse morning & night (never go to bed without removing makeup and cleansing your face!)

2. Tone after cleansing morning & night

3. Use a moisturizer with a minimum of SPF 15 during the day! (90% of aging is caused by UV rays; UVB rays burn the skin and UVA rays age the skin!)

4. Use a moisturizer with antioxidants at night

5. Use an eye cream both morning and night under your moisturizer (this is a preventive measure; signs of aging show first around the eyes, forehead, mouth, neck and hands)

6. Exfoliate 2x a week (helps with cell turnover and with the penetration of product ingredients into the skin)

7. Use a mask 2x a week (many, many benefits!)

8. Take a multi-vitamin daily and drink a minimum of 8 glasses of water daily

9. Eat fresh green vegetables at least 3x a week

10. Make sure you're getting adequate sleep!

The list above is a general guideline and will vary depending on skin type, age and other factors. The most important aspect of caring for your skin at home is first knowing your skin type and making sure you're using products specific to your skin type. For instance, if you have oily skin, look for products specifically for oily skin.

Love your skin.

Please feel free to e-mail me with any questions! Also, please share with us your skincare regimens - we want to know what works for you!

Mischo Beauty School: Hyperpigmentation 101

I received a question from Kia of Yummy 411 with regards to women of color and the issue of hyperpigmentation as a result of having had acne, laser hair removal or from shaving. She wanted to know what I'd recommend to treat the dark areas and if I had a suggestion of a particular concealer for covering discolored areas. In sharing my response with Kia, I wanted to share this with my readers as well.

Let me qualify my response 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 first see a dermatologist who can help you determine the cause of the discoloration and the best treatment for it.

Hyperpigmentation is the overproduction of pigment (melanin) which results in discoloration or dark areas 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. Women of color are more susceptible to skin discoloration due to genetics and the differences in physiology. If you have a tendency for this disorder, then 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)

3. Over-Exfoliation (this will make the disorder worse and might cause hypopigmentation, which is the loss of pigment)

4. Manipulation of Pimples (use an over-the-counter spot treatment or medication prescribed by your dermatologist to treat them)

Because shaving may cause hyperpigmentation for some, in addition to irritated skin and ingrown hairs, I would suggest waxing, threading, or using a depilatory (hair removal cream). Your dermatologist may even have a treatment to block hair growth.

I'd recommend Dermablend products as a concealer. I've heard over and over again how great they are for achieving maximum coverage and a flawless look.

Though skin of color is more susceptible to pigmentation issues, it's advantage is that due to it's difference in physiology, it has a greater protection from the sun and shows fewer signs of aging.

Love your skin.

Please feel free to e-mail me with any questions!

Any thoughts on hyperpigmentation? I'd love to hear what you think!

(photos courtesy of beyonceworld.net)

P.S. Congratulations Beyonce!!!!! And oh how I love your skin!!

Mischo Beauty School: Skin Analysis 101

I've said this before and I'll say it again- I can't begin to name all the reasons why you should incorporate facials into your beauty routine! Not only are facials relaxing and pampering, but they are crucial to maintaining the health of your skin. In my opinion, and as a licensed esthetician, one of the most important steps in a facial treatment is the skin analysis. An esthetician can't properly treat you unless they know the following - which is only obtained through a proper skin analysis:

1. Skin type
2. Skin conditions present
3. Skin texture
4. Visible appearance of skin
5. If you have allergies to products or scents
6. Why you are there
7. What your concerns are
8. What products you use at home
9. If you have had facial treatments in the past
10. If you are on medication

The esthetician should use a magnifying lamp/light during the skin analysis in order to properly see the skin and perform detail work . A proper skin analysis will help the esthetician know what products and services should be performed and which are contraindicated. A contraindication is a factor or reason that makes it inadvisable to proceed with a treatment. They include certain medications, contagious diseases, skin disorders, medical conditions and skin irritation. The misuse of products or poor facial treatments will harm the skin. At the end of your facial service you should leave knowing what your skin conditions are and what you can do to improve your skin's health. Products for home care should be recommended and preventive measures should be discussed.

Love your skin.

I'd love to hear your facial stories! Please share! Oh, and please feel free to e-mail me with any questions!

P.S. I had the Triple Oxygen Treatment facial at Bliss 49 and the Signature Pedicure at Rescue Beauty Lounge yesterday. Please stay tuned for my reviews!*

Mischo Beauty School: Haircuts 101

I’ve recently received the same question with regards to how to go about achieving a great haircut. And, just last week, a friend of mine decided to get her haircut at the little shop she goes to for eyebrow threading in Manhattan. She asked the stylist for a trim and then changed her mind and asked for a few layers. There was no consultation, no discussion of haircut photos and to top it off- there was a language barrier! Let's just say that she wasn't very pleased with the results, so this post is dedicated to her as well.

Every haircut is made up of a combination of basic techniques used to create varying shapes and effects on the hair. Before having your haircut, I recommend the following:

- Consultation with stylist (discuss face shape, hair texture and lifestyle)

- Review haircut pictures with stylist

- Consider home maintenance requirements

- Be realistic

Taking the above into consideration will ensure that you and the stylist agree on the best direction and that the stylist has adequate information to achieve the desired end result.

Love your hair.

Please feel free to e-mail me with any questions! Oh, and I'd love to hear your haircut stories, so please share!

P.S. I'm loving Nicole Richie's hair in the photos above.

(photos courtesy of wireimage.com)

Mischo Beauty School: Bikini Waxing 101

This lesson was inspired by the many questions I’ve received from the models who’ve volunteered to be waxed for my waxing class. The majority of questions involve the bikini wax. Waxing, a form of epilation, removes hair by pulling it out of the hair follicle. Because hair is removed from the hair follicle, it takes longer to grow back- generally 4-6 weeks. Below I’ve listed my best tips on how to prepare for waxing and what to expect:

• Your hair should be at least a 1/4 to 1/2 inch long, if longer, prepare to have it trimmed by your esthetician.
• Plan to wax after your menstrual cycle because your body will be less sensitive.
• Lightly exfoliate a few days before waxing to remove dead skin cells and make hair easier to adhere to the wax.
• A Brazilian bikini wax involves the removal of all hair, except for a “landing strip” in the front, but you may choose to have it all removed.
• Your esthetician will tweeze stray hairs.
• It may take 24 hours for any redness or soreness to disappear. During that time, avoid the sun, exfoliation, cream irritants and excessive heat.
• Try to avoid caffeine, alcohol and aspirin before waxing as these heighten sensitivity.
• If the wax pot has old wax on it and a spatula sitting in the wax- RUN! There may be sanitation issues.
• If your esthetician “double-dips” the spatula in the wax pot each time wax is applied to the area to be waxed- RUN! There are definitely sanitation issues.
• Do not wax if you use Accutane, Retin-A, are sunburned, using other topical AHA's, or medications that will make your skin reactive to waxing.
• Do not wax if you have diabetes. You are more vulnerable to infection.
• You must wax consistently every 4 - 6 weeks for the first few times. This will give your hair time to begin growing on the same hair cycle. Don’t shave in between waxing appointments.
• 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.

Love your skin!

Please feel free to e-mail me with any questions.

Mischo Beauty School: Sun Damage 101

As an esthetician, you all can probably imagine how passionate I am about skincare. The one aspect I’m most passionate about is protection from the sun. My skin tone is fair and I have freckles, and growing up I was always the first to get a sunburn. Over the years my mother would stress the importance of protecting my skin, even before most products were formulated with SPF. Though I listened to my mother, I wasn’t consistent with protecting my skin. So I share this with you today so that you are informed and empowered to make educated decisions about sun protection based on your skincare needs and lifestyle.

Sun damage is the major external cause of aging and it causes 80-85% of aging. The UV rays of the sun reach the skin in two different forms, as UVB and UVA rays. UVB rays tan the skin, damage the skin’s melanin and cause cancer. Penetrating further into the skin are the UVA rays. These rays weaken the skin’s collagen and elastin fibers, causing wrinkling and sagging in the tissues. Though these fibers naturally weaken as we age, it happens at a much faster rate when exposed to UVA rays. Sun damage leads not only to skin cancer, aging, and collagen and elastin deterioration, but to hyperpigmentation, capillary damage and free radical damage. Avoiding the sun and wearing sunscreen is the best protection for skin. Sunscreens absorb or reflect UV rays. SPF refers to the sun protection factor in sunscreens. The higher the SPF, the more protection you’ll receive from the sun. Be sure the sunscreen has full spectrum protection (protects the skin from both UVA and UVB rays). Sunscreen can be found in the form of a moisturizer and may come in various weights and formulas suitable for various skin types. Everyone needs to wear sunscreen- regardless of your complexion! My recommendation is to wear an SPF of 30 everyday, rain or shine!

Love your skin.

Do you wear sunscreen? Have you had skin issues as a result of sun damage? Please feel free to e-mail me with any questions!

Mischo Beauty School: Eyelashes 101

Lashes are my favorite new beauty accessory and my biggest challenge when it comes to applying my own. While I’ve mastered applying them to clients - technique and control definitely come from practice.

At any rate, there are two types of artificial lashes- band lashes and individual lashes. Band lashes (also called strip lashes) are applied to the natural lash line, using an adhesive, and are meant for single use. Individual lashes are applied to the lash line one at a time, using a lash glue, and last up to two weeks. The adhesive or glue is the product used to make the lashes adhere, or stick, to the natural lash line. Artificial lashes are available in human hair, animal hair, synthetic fibers, and in a variety of colors.

Procedure for Applying Band Lashes:

1. Always wash your hands first to avoid infection.

2. Decide on length and desired effect of band lash.

3. Curl your eyelashes with an eyelash curler.

4. Apply eyeliner based on your desired effect.

5. Remove band lash from package and trim to fit the curve of your eyelid.

6. Apply a thin strip of lash adhesive and allow to set for a few seconds, before applying to the lash line.

7. Apply the band lash to the lash line.

8. Use tweezers to gently press and set the band lash.

9. Retouch the lash line with eyeliner.

Lashes can be easily removed using a warm compress or make-up remover.

Love your lashes!

Any questions?

Mischo Beauty School: Serums 101

So today I'd like to share with you the benefits of serums. I believe in serums and am amazed at how the skin benefits from them!

A serum is a highly concentrated treatment of active ingredients used to penetrate and treat various skin conditions such a dehydration, fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation issues or loss of elasticity. They're ususally made up of vitamins, lipids or antioxidants and are usually the consistency of a thin liquid. To allow for maxium penetration into the skin, they're formulated with smaller molecules which makes 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 creating a skincare regimen and being faithful to it. Once you're consist 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!

Love your skin.

Any questions?

Mischo Beauty School: Certification Standard for Beauty

It's called Biodynamic and it's a beauty certification used to certify products above the "natural" and "organic" certifications. Biodynamic is a system of natural farming dating back to the 1920's, and like certified organic farming, Biodynamic farming is free of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. But unlike the "natural" and "organic" certifications, in order to receive the Biodynamic certification a product must meet the following conditions:

- Ingredients must come from chemical-free biodynamic farms

- Processing guidelines must focus on manipulating the ingredients and materials as little as possible

If the biodynamic certification interests you, then check out Lavender Fields, Ceago Vinegarden and Harms Vineyard, Flower Essence Services and Dr. Hauschka. These are the only brands in the U.S. which produce certified biodynamic products.

Love your skin.

Please feel free to e-mail me with any questions!

(Source: WWD Beauty Biz)

(photos courtesy of drhauschka.com)