Mischo Beauty School: Blackheads 101

After reviewing my previous posts on facials, exfoliation, serums, facial masks, facial cleansing, etc. I just realized that I've never discussed blackheads, or as they are technically called, "open comedones". Blackheads are simply a build up of hardened oil and dead skin cells in a hair follicle; and when the hair follicle is exposed to oxygen, it oxidizes and turns black- therefore the name "blackhead". I've seen blackheads on just about every skin type, but particularly on those with oily skin and oily t-zones. Here are ways to prevent them:

1. Use skincare products with noncomedogenic ingredients (will prevent pores from clogging)
2. Cleanse your skin both morning and night
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 the follicle)
5. Incorporate a facial (professional cleansing, exfoliation, extractions, steam treatment, massage, etc) by an esthetician into your skincare regimen (the benefits are countless!)

Because my skin is pretty much normal, but with an oily t-zone, my blackheads show up around my nose and between my eyebrows. I'm able to keep them under control with exfoliation, using a clay-based mask on those areas only, and monthly facials.

Any questions? Love your skin.

Decleor Phytopeel Natural Exfoliating Cream 1.7 oz
Decleor Radiance Revealing Peel-Off Mask 1.69 oz
Philosophy Help Me 1.05 oz
Philosophy The Microdelivery Exfoliating Wash 16 oz
Fresh Sugar Face Polish 4.2 oz
Fresh Appleseed Brightening Exfoliant 3.4 oz

Mischo Beauty Pick: Anastasia Brow Scissors

Since I'm a licensed esthetician I guess I'm somewhat particular about the tools I use on my brows. I'd posted a few months ago about my "must-haves" for achieving my perfect brow. I know they're old-school (as I was told) - but they work for me! And, I'm always complemented on my brows! I recently added Anastasia's Brow Scissors to my kit and I'm very pleased with the ease of use. The blade is the perfect shape and length for safely trimming across the top of my brows. They were designed by the brow expert, Anastasia Soare for home use, for anyone!

Which Anastasia Beverly Hills products are you using?

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: 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: 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.

Mischo Beauty School: Cosmetic Ingredients 101

If you're like me, you've probably wondered, at some point in time, about what was in your shampoo or lotion or foundation. My interest in product ingredients dates back to my senior year in college when a friend and I chose to analyze the chemical composition of "lye" and "no lye" relaxers. We both just had to know what we were putting in our hair and why "no lye" relaxers were supposedly safer than lye relaxers. Oh and by the way, we were both chemistry majors. Well, without having to go into a lab to get answers, there's a book called "A Consumer's Dictionary of Cosmetic Ingredients". I actually just discovered this book while completing my cosmetology and esthetics programs. It's easy to follow and will allow you to make purchase decisions based on knowledge of a product's ingredients and whether they do what they claim to, while avoiding potential health issues.

A Consumer's Dictionary of Cosmetic Ingredients: Complete Information about the Harmful and Desirable Ingredients in Cosmeticsand Cosmeceuticals

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 Pick

I have normal/combination skin and I've started using Dermalogica's clay based Skin Refining Masque on my oily t-zone (forehead, nose and chin). It's reduced the oil, and because it contains cucumber and menthol, it's very soothing on the skin. On the other areas of my face, the dehydrated areas (eyes, lips, cheeks and neck), I've been using the Skin Hydrating Masque. This cold, winter weather seems to be taking a toll on my skin and not only has this given me much needed hydration, my skin is also being nourished with antioxidants. I highly recommend both!

*Vote for Mischo Beauty Now!*

Mischo Beauty Tip

For your viewing pleasure:

*At- home facials courtesy of ELLE Beauty Expert*

(click on the link above)

Mischo Beauty School: At-Home Skincare 101

With the start of the new year, there's no better time to begin a skincare regimen then now! Every client I've seen for a facial thus far this new year has asked me what they should be doing at home to care for their skin. Here is my recommendation for an at-home skincare regimen in between facials:

1. Cleanse morning & night (never go to bed without cleansing your face!)
2. Tone after cleansing morning & night
3. Use your moisturizer with a minimum of SPF 15 during the day (very, very important!)
4. Use your moisturizer at night
5. Use an eye cream both morning and night under your moisturizer
6. Exfoliate 2x a week
7. Use your mask 2x a week
8. Take a multi-vitamin daily
9. Drink at minimum of 8 glasses of water daily
10. Eat fresh green vegetables at least 3x a week
11. Make sure you're getting adequate sleep!

Most important of all- make sure you're using products for your skin type. For instance, if you have oily skin, look for products for oily skin. Also, make sure your products are labeled "noncomedogenic" which simply means that they won't clog pores.

Love your skin.

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

Mischo Beauty: Kerry Washington Beauty File

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!

Ultimate Experience at the Guerlain Spa at the Regent Bal Harbour (Miami).

Waxing Models Wanted: 12/15/07

I'm nearing the end of my program, but practice makes perfect- hence the repeat posts!

I'm completing a waxing class and need models for a review by my instructor. The service is FREE. I'll need to demonstrate the following:

Eyebrows
Upper Lip
Arms
Underarms
Stomach
Bikini
Legs

If you need any waxing done, please let me know and I'll follow-up with the time and directions.

Lash/Brow Tinting Models Wanted: 12/15/07

I'm nearing the end of my program, but practice makes perfect- hence the repeat posts!

I'm completing a lash/brow tinting class and need models for a review by my instructor. This service is done using a vegetable-based dye and is completely safe for the eyes. Tinting brows saves from having to stencil or fill them in with pencil. Opt for a blue-black or brown tint for lash definition. Tinting lasts four to six weeks. The service is FREE.

If you are interested, please let me know and I'll follow-up with the time and directions. Thanks!

Waxing Models Wanted: 12/08/07

I'm completing a waxing class and need models for a review by my instructor. The service is FREE. I'll need to demonstrate the following:

Eyebrows
Upper Lip
Arms
Underarms
Stomach
Bikini
Legs

If you need any waxing done, please let me know and I'll follow-up with the time and directions.

Lash/Brow Tinting Models Wanted: 12/08/07

I'm completing a lash/brow tinting class and need models for a review by my instructor. This service is done using a vegetable-based dye and is completely safe for the eyes. Tinting brows saves from having to stencil or fill them in with pencil. Opt for a blue-black or brown tint for lash definition. Tinting lasts four to six weeks. The service is FREE.

If you are interested, please let me know and I'll follow-up with the time and directions. Thanks!

Lash/Brow Tinting Models Wanted: 12/01/07

I'm completing a lash/brow tinting class and need models for a review by my instructor. This service is done using a vegetable-based dye and is completely safe for the eyes. Tinting brows saves from having to stencil or fill them in with pencil. Opt for a blue-black or brown tint for lash definition. Tinting lasts four to six weeks. The service is FREE.

If you are interested, please let me know and I'll follow-up with the time and directions. Thanks!