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: 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: 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.

Have you experienced this procedure? If so, what were the results for you? Please feel free to e-mail me with any questions! Love your skin.

Because You're Worth It!

Les Revitalisantes and Ressource Minerale at L'Espace Payot. Paris, France.

Dream BIG dreams ladies- go see the world!

Mischo Beauty School: Facial Cleansing 101

Cleansing is the foundation of great skin. It removes makeup, dirt and dead skin cells. It is the most important step in a skincare routine and should be done twice in the morning and twice in the evening. Cleanser benefits include the following:

1. Dissolves makeup and dirt to unblock pores and prepare the skin for other products.

2. Milky cleaners have emollients that soften dry skin.

3. Cleansers contain ingredients to counteract various skin problems.

4. Additional ingredients can help certain skin conditions such as sensitivity, dehydration, or capillary problems.

Love your skin.

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

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Mischo Beauty Tip

For your viewing pleasure:

*At- home facials courtesy of ELLE Beauty Expert*

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Mischo Beauty School: Facial Masks 101

A great mask can do wonders for the skin. Masks are designed as an intensive treatment for different skin problems. Generally, there are two types of masks: setting masks and nonsetting masks. Setting masks, which normally use clay as their base, harden and dry and absorb oil and remove dead skin cells. Nonsetting masks are for dry or sensitive skin and are primarily moisturizing and soothing. Benefits of masks include the following:

1. Tighten and tone the skin
2. Draw impurities out of the pores
3. Clear up blemishes
4. Hydrate
5. Nourish
6. Calm and soothe
7. Rejuvenate the skin

Love your skin.

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

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! 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 certain skin conditions through 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. Deep cleansing
3. Deep exfoliation
4. Increases circulation & detoxifies
5. A skin analysis, product prescription and custom home regimen from an esthetician
6. Stimulates skin renewal and metabolism
7. Corrects or alleviates conditions such as dryness, oiliness and redness
8. Softens wrinkles and aging lines
9. Helps clear up blemishes and minor acne
10. SLOWS DOWN PREMATURE AGING

Love your skin.

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

Because You're Worth It!

Pure Gold Radiance Facial, Diamond Perfection Body Treatment, and Silver Rain Manicure & Pedicure at The Beverly Hills Hotel Spa by La Prairie ( Beverly Hills)

Mischo Beauty School: Sun Damage 101

Sun damage is the main external cause of aging. About 80-85% of aging is caused by the sun. The UV rays of the sun reach the skin in two different forms, as UVB and UVA rays. UVB rays cause tanning of the skin and damage the skin’s melanin when large doses are allowed to penetrate the skin. These rays 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! My recommendation is to wear an SPF of 30 everyday, rain or shine!

Love your skin.

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

Because You're Worth It!

Caviar & Champagne Luxe Indulgences. This three-hour service includes a signature La Prairie Caviar Firming Facial, an ultra-hydrating La Prairie Caviar Indulgence Body Treatment, champagne & caviar and a complimentary La Prairie Caviar gift containing deluxe samples of the La Prairie Caviar Collection. The Ritz-Carlton (New York, Central Park)

Loved, Respected, Talented, Devoted, and Brilliant...

Her name is Marcia Kilgore. She is an esthetician, entrepreneur, and well-respected beauty authority. She began giving facials in her New York City apartment, which led to her opening her first business, Let’s Face It. In 1996 she founded Bliss Spa, and the Bliss and Remede beauty product lines, Bliss Out catalog and blissworld.com website followed. In 1999, the luxury goods conglomerate Moet Hennessey Louis Vuitton (LVMH) acquired 70 percent of the company, resulting in a $30 million deal. Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. acquired the cosmetic, spa and catalog company from LVMH in 2004. Marcia Kilgore serves as the Chief Creative Consultant for Bliss, and consults on various areas of operation including product development and design, advertising, and promotional work. Her latest entrepreneurial venture is called Brand Handling. She recently launched a new product line, Soap & Glory, which is sold in Target.