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: 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 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: 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 Pick

I've been writing so much about exfoliation lately, that I'm sure you all are well aware of it's benefits (smile). I can't stress enough the need to incorporate it into your skincare regimen because it's one of the best ways to keep your skin looking young, refreshed and vibrant! 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. This leads me to sharing with you my absolute favorite exfoliant for the face, and it's Dermalogica's Daily Microfoliant. This product is AMAZING and my skin is always unbelievably soft and smooth after each use.

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 startch 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.

(photos courtesy of dermalogica.com)

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: Exfoliation 101 (Part 2)

Who knew that over-exfoliation or too-much exfoliation could lead to premature aging? 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! Well, it’s true. Too-much 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. 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 product’s manufacturer’s directions for correct product usage information.

Love your skin.

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

Because You're Worth It!

Hot Stone Pedicure. This pedicure includes a diamond buff, gentle exfoliation, and a hot stone massage using aroma therapy oils . Cuticles are perfected, nails clipped, reshaped and buffed or polished to perfection. Mizu Spa (San Francisco)

Waxing Models Wanted: 11/17/07

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. Thanks!

Fresh Pink Jasmine Bath & Shower Cream 10 oz
Fresh Pink Jasmine Body Cream 6.8 oz
Fresh Sugar Blossom Hand Cream 3.4 oz
Fresh Rice Face Cream 30 ml

Mischo Beauty School: Exfoliation 101

Exfoliation is the removal of dry, dead surface skin cells. An exfoliant is an ingredient that assists in the exfoliation process. Alphahydroxy acids and gentle scrubs are both examples of exfoliants that exfoliate dead skin cells that clog pores. Exfoliation should be incorporated into every skincare regimen. Here are a few reasons why:

- Makes skin smoother
- Facilitates the extraction of dirt/oil that clogs pores
- Faster cell turnover rate
- Improves the skins ability to retain moisture
- Helps penetration/delivery of product ingredients into the skin
- Stimulates blood flow
- Makes the application of makeup easier because skin is smooth

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

Ole Henriksen Rub 'N Buff Salt Scrub 28 oz
Bliss High Thighs Slimmer Scrub 10 oz
Philosophy Kiss Me Exfoliating Lip Scrub 0.5 oz