Mischo Beauty Pick: Jurlique Biodynamic Beauty Range

I first learned about the "biodynamic" label earlier this year after reading an issue of WWD Beauty Biz, and it's simply used to certify products above and beyond the "natural" and "organic" certifications. I was given the opportunity to try Jurlique's new Biodynamic Beauty Range, which consists of a serum, eye cream, night lotion and refining treatment. You all know how much I love skincare, and so I was more than excited about this opportunity. Now I will tell you that I did supplement the collection with my own cleanser, toner, mask and SPF (which is all part of my normal skincare regimen). As I've previously mentioned, exfoliants are essential to any skincare regimen and so I had to hold myself back from using the refining treatment everyday! Once a week was enough for me- but I always advise using according to your skin type/needs. This left my skin soft and polished, which explains the temptation to overuse. It's formulated with Apricot Seed Powder, which helps with the removal of dead skin cells, and Willow Bark Extract, which aids in cell renewal.

I used the eye cream under my moisturizer during the day and under the serum at night. I used just enough to cover my finger tip. The formula, which contains Black Elder and Licorice, works to firm the skin around the eyes, while reducing dark circles, fine lines, wrinkles and puffiness. I also found that it brightened the area after having used it for a month. I only used the serum at night because I prefer a light moisturizer with SPF during the day. Three pumps was enough for my face, neck and decollete (second face!), because as I've said before, serums are highly concentrated, so a little goes a long way! The serum is formulated with Beech Tree Buds, Blue Algae and Hibiscus which work to keep the skin firm and reduce signs of aging. And we all know that the first signs of aging usually appear around the eyes, neck and hands.

The night lotion was applied after the eye cream and serum, and I found that it left my skin soft and moisturized in the morning. Interestingly, it's formulated with a botanical ingredient called Marshmallow for intense hydration. After repeated use of this collection, my skin feels soft, smooth and I've been complemented repeatedly on my glow!

Have you tried any of the Jurlique products?

Mischo Beauty Pick: Eminence Organic Skin Care Coco-Luscious Collection

I've been using Eminence Organic Skin Care's Coco-Luscious Collection for the past few weeks with really good results. My preference is to use a skincare line for at least a month before writing a review, but since I have normal to combination skin (oily t-zone) and I very rarely breakout, I've adjusted my timeline. One of my favorites from this line was the Coconut Cream Masque. It's a non-setting mask for normal and dry/dehydrated skin and it's formulated with antioxidants (stops premature aging), coconut milk/oil and shea butter. I used it twice a week, everywhere except for my oily t-zone, after cleansing & exfoliating and before moisturizing (I basically incorporated it into a complete regimen). It left my skin soft, hydrated and very fresh-looking. Oh- and I loved the smell!

Have you tried any Eminence Organic Skin Care products? Any recommendations?

Mischo Beauty School: Facial Masks 101

After last week's post on exfoliation, I received quite a few emails requesting a recommendation of a good mask. Before I suggest a mask, I need to know your skin type because generally there are two types of masks I recommend: setting & non-setting masks. Setting masks, which normally use clay as their base, harden and dry and absorb oil and remove dead skin cells. Non-setting masks can be used for normal, 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. Assist in clearing of blemishes
4. Hydrate & nourish the skin
5. Calm & soothe the skin

I personally use a combination of both mask types. I use a setting mask on my oily t-zone and a non-setting mask everywhere else.

Any questions? Love your skin.

Clarins Extra Firming Facial Care Mask 2.7 oz
Clarins Thirst Quenching Hydra-Care Mask 1.7 oz
Caudalie Moisturizing Cream-Mask Face and Eyes 1.6 oz
Caudalie Purifying Mask 1.6 oz
REN Jiaogulan Revitalising Facial Mask 1.7 oz
REN Multi Mineral Detoxifying Facial Mask 1.7 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 Pick: Dr.Hauschka Daily Face Care Kit

I first learned of the "biodynamic" certification last February after reading an issue of WWD Beauty Biz. It's a beauty certification used to certify products that meet certain requirements, above and beyond the "natural" and "organic" certifications. Dr. Hauschka has been operating for 40 years and produces biodynamic skincare products for every skin type. I've been using the Daily Face Care Kit for normal, dry or sensitive skin and love the fact that it includes a complete skincare regimen - cleanser (Cleansing Milk), exfoliant (Cleansing Cream), toner (Facial Toner) and moisturizer (Moisturizing Day Cream, Rose Day Cream and Quince Day Cream). I did add an eye cream and sunscreen to meet my specific skincare needs. I loved the results and my favorite product in this kit was the Cleansing Cream. It definitely left my skin vibrant and refreshed! I'm somewhat of an exfoliant addict (I LOVE using them) so I have to control myself with the use of them and remind myself that "less is more"! Anyway, this is a great kit for those starting a skincare regimen (which I've stressed over and over again) and perfect for those who travel!

What are your favorite Dr. Hauschka products?

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 Alert: Mario Badescu Samples

If you read my post yesterday then you know much I can't stress enough the importance of implementing a skincare regimen. I recently just found out that when you visit the website of Mario Badescu (whose spa clients include Sarah Jessica Parker and Jennifer Aniston) you have the opportunity to receive a free skincare regimen of samples! Complete the skin analysis questionnaire and you'll receive a follow-up email. Shortly thereafter, the samples should arrive in the mail. I just received 8 samples, which consisted of a full skincare regimen for my skin type. Included was also a product guide with specific steps on how to use the samples. So if you're searching for a skincare line and want to sample the products first, I'd definitely give this a try!

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: 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: 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!