Mischo Beauty

Mischo Beauty Superstar of the Week: Kiyah Wright

2009-11-20T18:00:00.012-05:00

I can't believe it's time for this post again- time is flying! At any rate, I'm happy to announce that this week's "Mischo Beauty Superstar" is celebrity hairstylist, Kiyah Wright. Now you might be unfamiliar with her name, but if you've ever seen an episode of "The Tyra Banks Show" (for which she won an Emmy!) or "America's Next Top Model", then you've witnessed the fabulous hairstyles she's created for Tyra. Kiyah's also styled celebrities such as Iman, Kerry Washington, Mary J. Blige and Faith Evans, just to name a few.

Her work has appeared in such magazines as Vogue, ELLE, Glamour and Essence. I think what I'm loving most is that while Kiyah loves working "behind the chair", she's been able to use her expertise to develop hair accessories and products, and launch an image consulting company called, Muze Agency (all the things I'm planning to do!). Anyway, check out her amazing portfolio here, as well as her website. Be sure to let me know what you think in the comments section!

Mischo Beauty Pick: Lisa Hoffman's Spa Packettes

2009-11-20T10:51:00.008-05:00

I'm excited about going home for the holidays- yes, I'll be headed to Indiana to see my family for Thanksgiving! I've only planned to be there a few days, which means I really need to pack light and carry any baggage onto the plane with me. With all that in mind, I was led to tell you all about Lisa Hoffman's Spa Packettes. These packettes are perfect for travel and include the following:

Spa Bath Packette: Bath Soak, Body Wash, Body Polisher, Body Cream, and Hand & Foot Butter

Spa Shower Packette: Cleansing Gel, Body Scrub, Body Oil, Body Lotion, and Hand & Foot Cream

Spa Facial Packette: Anti-Aging Serum, Clay Mask, Exfoliating Cleanser, Eye Treatment, Hydrating Booster, Hydrating Mask, Lip Moisturizer, Lip Polisher, Moisture Seal Cream and Purifying Toner

The ampules (pictured above) actually come in zip packaging, making them easy for packing. Or, you can separate the ampules and add them to your cosmetic bag.

And- what's even better is (I get very excited talking skincare) that for those of you who told me that one of your New Year's resolutions was to adopt a skincare regimen and you still have not (remember we discussed beauty New Year's resolutions here!) - well, this is your chance to sample a complete regimen. You can monitor your results and then commit to full sizes.

I'd love to know what you think about these!

Mischo Beauty: i-Envy by Kiss Premium Eyelashes

2009-11-19T14:01:00.009-05:00

Most of you know that eyelashes are one of my favorite beauty accessories - remember my "Mischo Beauty School: Eyelashes 101" post? Well, Kiss Premium Eyelashes just released their i-Envy collection which includes Au Naturale 02, Juicy Volume 02 and their Classic Short Black individual lashes- all pictured above.

And the best part- they retail for $3.49! That's a steal and definitely inexpensive enough for you to buy a few pairs to practice with, if you're a newbie!

Mischo Beautyliciousness...

2009-11-18T14:06:00.000-05:00

So I couldn't decide if I liked Amerie's smokey eye or Givenchy shoes more when I saw her latest spread in Complex Magazine. I'm always cheering for Amerie (I loved her first CD, but unfortunately only one song from the second CD), so hopefully she doesn't disappoint with her new CD, "In Love & War".

Anyway, the smokey eye wins, though I HEART her shoes! If you happen to know who created her makeup look, please let me know in the comments section!

Also, let me know your vote- smokey eye or Givenchy shoes!

Mischo Beauty Pick: Hard Candy Just Nails Nail Polish

2009-11-18T12:02:00.016-05:00

I thought these were cute- especially as stocking stuffers for nail polish lovers (like myself!)- so I decided to mention them. From left to right, the shades are: The End, Mr. Right, Frenzy, Pretty In Pink and Lava. I actually just learned that Hard Candy had been relaunched and is now available at WalMart.

And in addition to nail polish, the collection includes a full cosmetic line including lipstick, lip gloss, blush, mascara and eye shadows to name a few. Anyway, I'm sure I'll be heading to a WalMart when I head home to the midwest for the holidays (WalMart is always a required stop for my mother and one of my sisters...LOL), so I'll let you know more as I learn more...

Does anyone ever remember seeing Hard Candy in Neiman Marcus stores?

Mischo Beauty Pick: ReVersital 3-in-1 MicrodermaStick

2009-11-17T10:10:00.018-05:00

During a trip to The Plaza Beauty by Warren Tricomi, I met the lovely Ann-Marie who convinced me to allow her to demo the ReVersital 3-in-1 MicrodermaStick (for the body) on my hands. It was instant love after the demo, and so I was excited when she sent me a stick to test out at home. Well, I'm sure most of you are aware of the benefits of microdermabrasion if you've read my "Mischo Beauty School: Microdermabrasion 101" post, so I won't go into the details here.

What I will tell you is that this stick is made up of magnesium oxide crystals - the same microcrystals used in a microdermabrasion procedure, and it also acts as a cleanser and moisturizer, hence the "3-in-1". I've used this stick repeatedly on my feet, and yes they are smooth! It can also be used on your hands and elbows, and there's a special stick meant to be used specifically for the face, throat and decollete. Both sticks are available at Henri Bendel, The Plaza Beauty by Warren Tricomi and ReVersital.net.

Do you have questions about microdermabrasion? Please let me know in the comments section!

Mischo Beauty School: Exfoliation 101

2009-11-16T09:58:00.014-05:00

I'm sure you all are aware of the benefits of exfoliation (especially since the weather is colder/drier), but if you aren't, here's another 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.

Mischo Beauty Superstar of the Week: Marcia Kilgore (founder of Bliss Spa)

2009-11-13T15:20:00.015-05:00

I was recently reminded that "life is too short to not be doing what you love", and so every day is yet another opportunity for me to work even harder to achieve my goals. I've made significant progress and I'm not giving up until I get there! And so in continuing this series, I had to include Marcia Kilgore (even though I wrote about her 2 years ago on the blog), because she's accomplished what I'm working so hard to achieve.

You see, she's an esthetician, entrepreneur and well-respected beauty authority (that'll be me one day soon!). She began giving facials in her New York City apartment, which led to opening her first business, "Let's Face It". In 1996, she founded Bliss Spa, and the Bliss and Remede beauty product lines. The luxury goods conglomerate Moet Hennessey Louis Vuitton (LVMH) acquired 70% of the company in 1999, resulting in a $30 million deal. And, in 2004, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. acquired the company, which is why we now see Bliss Spas in W Hotels.

Marcia serves as the Chief Creative Consultant for Bliss, and consults on product development and design, advertising, and promotional work. Her latest entrepreneurial ventures include the Soap & Glory product line and the Fitflop.

With all that said- can't you understand why I want to be like her when I grow up? She's AMAZING- right!

Mischo Beauty Loves: Scarlett Johansson for Dolce & Gabbana's "Rose The One" Fragrance Ad Campaign

2009-11-12T12:08:00.008-05:00

I love a beautifully executed "beauty" ad campaign and such is the case with Dolce & Gabbana's print ads for their new fragrance, "Rose The One". Again, they've chosen Scarlett Johansson as the campaign spokesmodel (she's also the face for their makeup collection) and I have to congratulate the beauty superstars (hairstylist, makeup artist, manicurist, etc.) behind the scenes who were all a part of making the creative director's vision a reality.

The fragrance collection also includes a shower gel, body lotion and shimmer powder and is exclusively available at Saks Fifth Avenue.

Are you loving this ad campaign as much as I am?

Mischo Beauty Extra: Zoya's MatteVelvet Winter Limited Edition Collection

2009-11-12T09:37:00.013-05:00

A few months ago I introduced you to Zoya's MatteVelvet collection for fall and I've just received the limited edition collection for winter. I'm interested in knowing what your thoughts are on the "matte" nail polish trend- so please let me know! Do you think it's here for just a season, or are you expecting more of it for spring/summer?

So, Zoya's MatteVelvet Winter collection includes three shimmering mattes:

- Harlow (left)
- Savita (center)
- Veruschka (right)

Without a doubt, Veruschka is my absolute favorite! Oh, and remember that the look is supposed to be a "matte" finish, so this nail polish formula doesn't require a base coat, top coat, or a speed dryer.

Love it?

Mischo Beauty Extra: Zoya's Ultra Glitter Winter 2009 Collection

2009-11-11T09:14:00.005-05:00

It's no secret that I'm a "glitter/sequins girl"- remember my favorite makeup bag here and here? Well, Zoya sent me their newest collection, Ultra Glitter Winter 2009, and you know it has my name written all over it! The collection includes Astra, Nova and Luna and is available now.

So which is your favorite?

Isn't She Lovely...

2009-11-10T08:44:00.007-05:00

In celebrating "The Women In Hollywood" issue, ELLE Magazine released five different covers featuring different actresses, one of which was Zoe Saldana. Covers such as hers, are few and far in between and I'm actually searching for hers as I write this (I received the cover with Julianne Moore in the mail). Anyway, for all of you beauty lovers, here's the team of beauty superstars who created her cover look:

Makeup: Rose-Marie Swift at Streeters (all makeup by L'Oreal Paris)
Hair: Ted Gibson at Jed Root Inc.
Photographer: Alexei Hay
Stylist: Christopher Niquet

All makeup used was by L'Oreal Paris and included:
Double Extend Lash Fortifier & Extender Mascara in Carbon Black
Bare Naturale All-Over Mineral Glow in Honey Glow
H.I.P. Bright Shadow Duos in Dynamic

So who was your favorite cover model?

Mischo Beauty School: Haircolor 101

2009-11-09T08:48:00.002-05:00

I'm passionate about haircolor and I'm writing about this topic, yet again! My apprenticeship at Vidal Sassoon required me to search high and low for models wanting root touch-ups, highlights, gray coverage, bleach & tones, highlift blondes, and single & double haircolor processes. Believe it or not, I was always able to find a model that needed one of these services and the results always left me amazed and excited about the next challenge.

With that said, let's discuss haircolor. It falls into four categories: temporary, semipermanent, demipermanent, and permanent.

1. Temporary haircolor coats the hair shaft and is easily removed by shampooing. Examples include: color rinses or color-enhancing shampoos.

2. Semipermanent haircolor partially penetrates the hair shaft and slowly fades with shampooing. It doesn't lighten the hair and is usually used to enhance fading haircolor.

3. Demipermanent haircolor doesn't lighten hair and, like semipermanent haircolor, it is used to enhance fading haircolor. It penetrates the hair shaft and lasts longer than semipermanent haircolor.

4. Permanent haircolor is used to lighten hair and cover grey. It remains in the hair shaft until the growth of new hair.

Any questions? Love your hair.

Mischo Beauty Superstar of the Week: Sam Fine

2009-11-06T15:41:00.003-05:00

Today's "Mischo Beauty Superstar" is celebrity makeup artist, Sam Fine. As most of you already know, I've had the opportunity to see him at a celebrity makeup symposium a few years ago in Washington, DC and was completely blown away! Watching him perform his magic, up close and in person, was priceless! I loved that he was so gracious with sharing his story, answering questions and giving advice.

So in an effort to not overwhelm you (I've already mentioned him here, here, here, here, and here! LOL) check out his website for more information on his blog, book, makeup video and tour dates (he'll be back in DC this month!). Enjoy.

Mischo Beauty Pick: Sponge Skincare's Wild Herb Cleansing Gel

2009-11-03T19:43:00.000-05:00

Since I'm always on the hunt for a more natural alternative when it comes to skincare, I decided to present to you Sponge skincare's Wild Herb Cleansing Gel, which is part of the line's 100% chemical-free range of products. Now in continuing to follow my best beauty advice of "buying for your skin type, needs, issues"- you should know that this gel cleanser is great for those of you with oily/combination skin. It's free of oils/emollients found in cleansing creams and lotions (which work better for dry/mature skin)!

Mischo Beauty: Avon's Smooth Minerals

2009-11-03T19:25:00.007-05:00

I'll be honest and admit that I haven't used Avon makeup in years- actually probably not since my sister and I used to sneak and take the lipstick samples (my Mom used to get from co-workers selling Avon) with us to elementary school. Well Avon sent me a few items from their new Smooth Mineral collection and I have to tell you that I'm particularly found of the lipsticks (I found them to be very moisturizing) and the eye liners (easy on- easy off!). The complete collection is available here.

Mischo Beauty Superstar of the Week: Sophy Robson

2009-10-30T19:28:00.002-05:00

This post marks the beginning of the "Mischo Beauty Superstar" series which I'm starting to simply bring to your attention and show love to the many beauty professionals not only working hard to accomplish their dreams, but who are sources of inspiration to me personally (you all know beauty is my passion)! I promise to keep the posts short and sweet because they're meant to be an introduction. My hope is that you'll visit their websites, view their portfolios and tell the world about them!

The first "Mischo Beauty Superstar" is celebrity manicurist, Sophy Robson. I first learned about her from following the London, Milan and Paris fashion week updates on Vogue UK's beauty blog. Sophy was creative director for nails for such shows as Louis Vuitton, Stella McCartney, and Vivienne Westwood. Her work has appeared in all of the top fashion magazines and you've probably seen her work in such ad campaigns as Yves Saint Laurent, Tom Ford White Patchouli and Bulgari to name a few.

She also has a nail salon called The Sophy Robson Nailcare Clinic at Fortnum & Mason in London, where she's available for appointments. Be sure to visit her website, check out her blog and view her AMAZING portfolio! And, if you're in London, get booked with her! Enjoy.

Mischo Beauty Review: Dior Bronze Self-Tanner Natural Glow Face

2009-10-30T17:58:00.007-05:00

I was sad to learn that Lancome recently discontinued it's Flash Bronzer Face Gel, remember me mentioning it here and here? So I recently stopped in Sephora to find a replacement and picked up Dior's Dior Bronze Self-Tanner Natural Glow Face and unfortunately it's not what I'd expected. First, it's very heavily scented- almost, feels like I'm applying perfume to my face. And secondly, I have yet to see the color payoff. My expectation is for a natural, fresh-looking glow and it just doesn't deliver for me. So, my hunt continues...

If you have a recommendation for me, please let me know! Thanks.

Mischo Beauty Pick: Desert Essence Organics

2009-10-30T15:43:00.006-05:00

After learning more about the benefits of jojoba oil in cosmetology school and trying to take steps toward using more natural products, I started using Desert Essence's Jojoba Oil. So when they offered to send me their Green Apple & Ginger Body Wash (smells good enough to eat!), Almond Hand and Body Lotion and Lip Rescue in an effort to help me winterize my skin I was eager to try what they'd offered.

I'm loving all three products, and using the body wash as my current morning "pick-me-up". You should know that all of their products are 100% vegan and contain no parabens, sodium lauryl/laureth sulfates, phthalates, artificial colors, silicones, EDTA, glycol or petroleum-based ingredients. You may view the entire range here.

Mischo Beauty School: Eye Creams 101

2009-10-30T13:04:00.010-05:00

I receive emails pretty frequently with regards to the use of eye creams and they're usually concerning the following:

- Anti-aging
- Dark Circles
- Wrinkles
- Puffiness

Now in addressing the concerns above, I have to tell you that I'm a believer in taking care of oneself internally first, therefore reaping the benefits externally. So don't ever count out the invaluable benefits of adequate sleep, a diet rich in leafy greens, a multivitamin, and water- all of which I've discussed before.

If you're searching for a targeted treatment to address any of the concerns above- I'll share with you my best advice I've been giving out since starting this blog- and it is:

"Buy products formulated for your specific skin type/need/issue."

We all know that every brand makes an eye cream, so what I will suggest is that you start using the eye cream you choose consistently in order to really see/know if it works! Finding what works for you involves trial and error and consistent use for a minimum of 30 days (in my opinion).

Remember, for best results, eye creams should be applied to cleansed skin both morning and night, using your ring finger (the skin under the eye area is the thinnest skin on the body, which means you should use your weakest finger to apply product to that delicate area) before applying other products.

Now if there is an eye cream you're in love with, then share with us what it is and why!

Mischo Beauty Loves Givenchy Les Poetiques 2009 Fall Makeup Collection

2009-10-28T08:52:00.004-05:00

Based on the items I was sent to try from Givenchy's new Les Poetiques makeup collection for fall 2009, I will tell you that you won't be disappointed! The collection includes soft, neutral, sheer/shimmery shades and honestly, at first glance, I thought this was a spring or summer collection. Givenchy's Artistic Director for Makeup, Nicolas Degennes, states:

"From wintry winds to the winds of time, echoing melancholy's mire, beauty emerges so sublime, painting a landscape of desire.... Poetically, it borrows from the natural and enhances it with mystery. The dream emerges... a bed of roses... a stormy night... a first kiss... in a watercolour of emotions. Each woman has her mood, and each day, its surprise. Like feelings that "flood" the face, "Les Poetiques" naturally reveals the high-romance femininity of the Givenchy Woman. Each passion, and each woman, is unique."

The star product of the collection (which I've said before) for me was definitely the Phenomen'Eyes mascara, which is now available in No.4- Poetique Grey Lavender. This mascara in general, regardless of the shade you choose, is definitely the best luxury brand mascara, because it works! Anyway, I'd love to hear what you all think about this collection or Givenchy makeup in general. Please share!

Mischo Beauty Loves Dior Addict Ultra-Gloss Reflect & YSL La Laque Nail Lacquer

2009-10-27T08:45:00.005-05:00

Last week one of my followers on Twitter asked me what my favorite hair products were and why. Well I love answering any/all beauty related questions- you all know it's my passion, so don't ever hesitate to send them! Anyway, I was going through my makeup bag this morning and wanted to share with you two of my favorite products- at the moment- that I first blogged about last year.

The first is Dior Addict Ultra-Gloss Reflect Linen Beige #317, which I posted here and here. The second is YSL La Laque Nail Lacquer Tulipe Noire #34, which is down to the last drop! I'd love to know what products you're loving at the moment- for hair, skin or nails!

Mischo Beauty Review: Completely Bare's Sculpted Tan

2009-10-26T09:47:00.017-05:00

I was invited in to experience Completely Bare's Sculpted Tan about a month ago. And, after reading the service description, and based on the fact that I hadn't had an airbrushed tan in a couple of years, I was actually excited to try it out!

"The Sculpted Tan highlights and redefines areas of the body with precise, natural looking results. The Sculpted Tan is an airbrushed technique that "chisels" your body using two different airbrushes and two different solutions, the first giving you your base tan while the second shapes your body."

The words "precise, natural looking, and chisels", were not only the words that stood out for me, but were actually the results I was eagerly awaiting. So I visited the 25 Bond Street location for the service and was greeted by my esthetician, who escorted me into the treatment room. Now it's completely up to you on whether or not you'd like to be airbrushed in a bikini of your own, use their disposable thong or be completely naked. The service lasted about 45 minutes (including drying time), and I felt my esthetician did a great job with the coverage.

My only concerns were with the fact that there was no full-length mirror in the room, so my esthetician kindly held up a 5x7 mirror as I checked to see the results. Also, I don't believe there were "two different airbrushes and two different solutions" used during my service. At least I didn't see my esthetician change the equipment or solution... I was indeed sprayed twice, my esthetician did not miss a spot!

I think the service is great if you're headed to the islands and you want to save your skin from the sun, or if you're just in need of a "pick-me-up glow" while in the city. My advice is to purchase a self-tanner for maintenance, because you'll lose some of the glow when you first shower after waiting 8 hours after the service.

If you've had this service, then I'd love to know what your experience was- also, if you've had any other services at Completely Bare, please share!

Mischo Beauty Loves Stella McCartney's StellaNude Linen Scented Mist

2009-10-23T11:48:00.011-05:00

As most of you already know, I'm new to the Stella McCartney fragrance range- and a few months ago I fell in love with the Stella Eau de Parfum Roll-On while waiting in line to check out at Sephora. Well, I was recently given the opportunity to try the new Linen Scented Mist, which is part of the StellaNude collection, and it was instant love!

It contains some of the same top notes I loved so much in the roll-on, such as rose, peony, and amber- but this definitely falls into the " delicate, soft, sensual" category. It's a "linen mist" so it's very light- perfect for a lingerie drawer, closet or wherever you see fit to use it.

Mischo Beauty Loves Scott Barnes' Body Bling

2009-10-22T09:24:00.007-05:00

If you haven't tried Body Bling by Scott Barnes (celebrity makeup artist to Jennifer Lopez), then you need to get it now! It's a tinted bronzing body lotion, it compliments every skin tone, and it's made for temporary wear (washes off after each use). And since I'm always on the search for a great bronzer, I gladly accepted the opportunity to try it when his company offered.

After a single application, it gave me a serious glow- which I loved! I think it's perfect for a night out- especially when you want to show a little more skin than usual. I'd love to know your thoughts- if you've tried it, please let me know!