#diy body scrub for summer

[heyitsgigisadventures]

4 DIY Lush Body Scrubs to Try This Summer

4 DIY Lush Body Scrubs to Try This Summer   Lush is easily the most famous brand when it comes to natural, organic beauty – but did you know you can actually re-create many of their recipes at home? Here’s a bunch of DIY Lush body scrubs to try out this Summer!     Do you want to literally glow up overnight using the Light Feminine method? Click here!     Hey, pretty people!   Lush is, without a…

[merrybrides]

DIY: Summer Citrus Sugar Scrub

Rejuvenate and revive your skin with this easy citrus sugar scrub recipe. With only 3 ingredients you probably already have on hand, you’ll be ready to whip up this gentle exfoliating body scrub in no time! 

Sugar Scrub, or body polish is a luxurious way to refresh your skin. It is so gentle that it can even be used on sensitive skin. 

Exfoliating body scrub makes a great shower favor, quick gift, treat for yourself or a hostess gift when you are welcomed to a friend’s beach house.  This jar will keep my skin happy all summer long!

Keep a jar of this sugar scrub by your kitchen to soothe your hands after washing dishes. It will rehydrate your skin from the harshness of the hot water and dish soap. Keep a jar of sugar scrub in the shower for a mini spa treatment up to 3 times a week! 

Citrus Sugar Scrub Recipe Ingredients

It’s made with just a few ingredients, from your kitchen!

Sugar – 1/2 cup of regular white table sugar is perfect for this diy sugar scrub! It exfoliates your skin, gentling rubbing away dead skin cells leaving your skin feeling smooth and radiant. 

Oil – I use 1/4 cup Vitamin E Oil in this recipe which is so good for your skin. Its anti inflammatory properties soothes and calms, while hydrating dry skin and working to heal any blemishes. 

Citrus – Is so good for your body inside and out! Naturally full of vitamin C it leaves your skin with a beautiful glow! It also can help to lighten sun spots or other blemishes on your skin. I love the texture and beautiful color the citrus adds along with its amazingly refreshing scent!  You can use the zest from one Orange, Grapefruit, or Lemon, or 2 Limes, in this recipe.

*** Zest is made from the top layer of a fruit peel. Always try to avoid the white pith. If you don’t have a zester, you can use a vegetable peeler to gently peel the top layer of your fruit. Then cut the strips into finer strips lengthwise, and then again into tiny cubes widthwise. 

Supplies

Large Glass Mixing Bowl

Handheld Citrus Zester (variations under Tips and Tricks)

Spatula

Measuring Cups

Sealable Glass Jars (I like to use mason jars or repurpose clean jars I already own)

Ice Cream Scoop

How to Make Exfoliating Body Scrub

This scrub is so easy to make. It only contains natural ingredients and no artificial food colorings.

Combine sugar and oil.

2. Add zest.

3. Scoop into sealable glass jars.

4. Label and date.

5. Store for up to 3 months in an airtight container.

Variations

This sugar scrub recipe is so easy to customize to fit your needs! 

Citrus Variations – In this recipe I use orange, but any other citrus would work well! In the past, I have used grapefruit, orange, lime, and lemon. They all have worked wonderfully! If using lime I chose to use the zest from 2 limes since they are smaller sized fruit.

Oil Variations – Vitamin E Oil, Coconut Oil, Olive Oil, Almond Oil, Carrot Oil, Argan Oil, Jojoba Oil, and Grapeseed Oil. 

Sugar Variations – Any white sugar should work well in this recipe. Sugar is used for a gentle exfoliation so keep that in mind when choosing the coarseness of the sugar. 

For a winter sugar scrub try adding a dash of ground cloves or ground cinnamon. 

Add a few drops of essential oils. My favorite combinations include other citrus oils to complement and enhance, floral scents such as moroccan rose or lavender, and woody scents such cedar or rosemary. 

Pro Tip: If using coconut oil, it will help to slightly warm the oil on the stovetop or even the microwave before adding it to the mixture. I love coconut oil and lime combination! 

How to Store Sugar Scrub

This Sugar Scrub recipe can be stored for up to 3 months in a properly sealed jar / airtight container.  

PRO TIP: Upcycle jars you already own!

[wonder-fruit-for-skin]

Watermelon Is The Wonder Fruit For Skin!

Fruits in season add a radiant glow to your skin, and those with a high water content can benefit your skin immensely. 

A typical summertime snack that helps beat the heat is watermelon. However, watermelon offers several benefits that draw the interest of numerous studies.

Numerous health advantages of watermelon include cancer prevention and heat relief. It helps with weight loss as well. Many of us still appreciate it as a summertime treat because of its unusually mild sweetness.

Watermelon offers a plethora of cosmetic benefits, like protecting your skin from UV radiation and maintaining its youthful appearance throughout the hectic summer months. Watermelon's many vitamins and antioxidants make it easy to make revitalizing face masks that will quickly give you more radiant, translucent skin.

Watermelon face masks made at home are good for detoxifying and moisturizing the skin while removing impurities.Your skin should look fantastic after using a watermelon face pack, but maintaining a healthy lifestyle and eating a balanced food are also important.

What Benefits Does Watermelon Have For Skin Health?

Beyond just being a fantastic source of water, watermelon is also an excellent diet for healthy skin. Scrolling down shows how this fruit might help with various skin care issues. You won't be sorry if you incorporate it into your skincare or body care regimen.

1. Scrubbing Bar Natural

Because watermelon has a lot of vitamin C, your skin will brighten quickly. The fruit's coarse granules moisturize and exfoliate the skin gently. Gently scrub your face with a teaspoon of mashed watermelon to remove dead skin cells.

2. Immediate Skin Hydration

Watermelon juice can quench your thirst on a hot day, but consider the benefits it can have for your skin. Your face and body may regain some of the moisture lost with watermelon. Because of its high water content (almost 93%), your skin becomes more naturally hydrated, looking plump and radiant.

The water content of watermelon is approximately 93%. It can replenish the moisture that has been lost from the body or face. To hydrate tight, flaky skin, massage watermelon and cucumber juice into the skin.

3. Age-Reversing Impact

Watermelons are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, which promote healthy skin. In addition to enhancing suppleness and preventing free radical damage, antioxidants make skin appear firmer and less prone to fine lines and wrinkles. Vitamins help to brighten and exfoliate the layer of dull skin that gives the appearance of tired and overworked skin.

4. Takes Out Inflammation

Acne-prone skin usually needs calming and nourishing ingredients. The recommended fruit for this is watermelon. It helps to relax your skin with its anti-inflammatory properties. That feels good.

5. High Nutrient Content

Watermelon is an excellent source of skin-beneficial elements. It has vitamins A, B, and C that protect and nourish your skin. Additionally, these vitamins help to increase collagen development, which brightens, minimizes spots, and invigorates and refreshes your skin.

6. Good For All Skin Types

This adaptable fruit works well for any skin. Because it doesn't leave the skin overly acidic, it is harmless—a single fruit works for all skin types, including combination, dry, sensitive, and acne-prone.

3 DIY Watermelon Packs

These are some incredible and helpful watermelon pouches. 

1. Ingredients For The Watermelon And Cucumber Pack

One teaspoon each of watermelon juice, cucumber zest, and honey

Process of Preparation

1. Mix each component.

2. Apply it on your entire face.

3. Give it fifteen minutes to dry.

4. Use cold water to rinse.

How Is It Operated? 

Watermelon has properties that help clear blocked pores because it is detoxifying. Cucumber helps to remove skin tan and soothes burnt skin, while honey nourishes and moisturizes the skin while preventing infections. This face pack is great for tanned skin and gives a radiant shine a week after application.

2. A pack Of watermelon And Bananas

Components

Cubed watermelon

½ cup Ripe bananas

½, medium 

2-3 tsp of chilled milk

Process Of Preparation

1. Blend the ingredients to create a homogeneous paste in a blender.

2. Cover your face and neck with this paste.

3. Put it on for twenty minutes.

4. Use cold water to rinse.

How Is It Operated? 

An excellent ingredient that cleanses, moisturizes and illuminates skin is milk. Banana tightens the skin and removes spots and blemishes, while watermelon removes age spots. Those with sensitive or pigmented skin will benefit significantly from this face pack.

3. Ingredients For The Yogurt And Watermelon Face Pack

Cubed watermelon (1 cup) 

3 tablespoons homemade curd or yogurt

1-tablespoon moong dal powder

Process Of Preparation 

1. Combine all the ingredients to form a paste.

2. Dab it onto your neck and face.

3. Let it air dry entirely.

4. Use cold water to rinse.

How Is It Operated?

Moong dal powder acts as a natural exfoliator, removing dead skin cells. In addition, the concoction of yogurt and watermelon is relatively healthy for the skin. After using this face pack for a few days, the skin appears beautiful and revitalized and is kept moisturized. It also serves as a one-stop solution for acne and pimples.

The Last Word

Watermelon is a delicious fruit many of us have loved since we were young. Because it is high in water, potassium, copper, magnesium, manganese, vitamins A, B, and C, and antioxidants, this juicy, rich-red fruit has many benefits for the skin.

About ToneOp

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[fiaampiree]

SUMMER GLOW UP

—Welcome back ! Or welcome

Howdy my dear gems ! It’s me fiaanii and here I’m gonna break down the SECRET OF ULTIMATE GLOW UP !!

So… let’s go

We will divide this into 2 parts

PHYSICAL GLOW UP

MENTAL GLOWUP

Let’s first define what glowup actually means ¿!

Glow up :: a significant transformation, typically in physical appearance, that is perceived as an improvement. It's the process of turning yourself into a better version of yourself and becoming more confident, attractive, and successful.

And first we will start with PHYSICAL GLOW UP as I believe that if you feel good physically then it can make you feel good and beautiful mentally

Note : you’re beautiful the way you are this is just to enhance your beauty

physical glow up

Know your body & yourself ::

Knowing your face features and working on them accordingly can make a big change in your appearance! And it will enhance your own beauty—! And ISTG @dear peachie is a the best YouTube channel I can suggest you when it comes to know about yourself more ! Their channel can help you recognise your face shape your face type and also help you with finding your make up syle and over all appearance !

Clear skin ::

yup ! This is in the list as well like come on who doesn’t want a clear skin ¿ and I will tell you my own routine and also the tips

1. Get to know your skin type [ mine is dry skin ]

Well get your face wash and stuff according to your skin type and I’m telling you this because I myself choose the wrong face wash and I kinda regret it ! Coz it messed up my face and now I’m dealing with pimples

2. Now as you got to know your skin buy the product accordingly

Now have a routine I will tell you mine

First I was my face with a korean foam face wash but before washing my face I like to massage my face with coconut oil and gua sha then I use rose water as a toner and spray in on my face [ it helped me with pimples] also while washing my face I usually use cold water since my skin doesn’t like hot or warm water !

Then I use my moisturiser and I use baby cream as a moisturiser! Then I just use my sunscreen I use it from lakmé and yeah ! That’s it

Workout ::

Well workout as it has many benefits not only to be in shape I mean yeah it’s also a priority but also to feel good about your body and be more confident within yourself!

Vibe & aura ::

Create your own vibe and aura that you like ! Be yourself and don’t care what others think just don’t give a fuck be who you want ! Do what you want—! No one gets to tell you what to do ! Also YK creating a playlist to make you feel that way helps alot ! And I literally listen to the songs and playlist to have that kinda vibe which I want

HAIR ::

I use rice water for my hair ! It’s quite simple to use just soak rice in water the day before you have to wash your hair and then when you have to wash it ! Just rinse you hair with rice for like an hour then just wash it like you usually do ! I do it and it helped me alot !

Also for hair style I will recommend @dear peachie as they show you which hairstyle is best for your face shape as my face shape is diamond so I just go with Wonyoung’s hairstyle as they suit me the best and rosé’s hairstyle aswell

At night time ::

At night time I like to just wash my face without the face wash and then I like to moisturise it with the cream and yeah ! That’s it

Lips ::

Many ppl don’t mention the lip part but yeah ! I love to scrub my lips using my own DIY lip scrub coz I’m born at in a strict family and they won’t buy me a lip scrub so I decided to DIY it so… take sugar , honey and coconut oil mix them together and that’s it and then after I’m done I like to ise vasline for my lips !

Beauty hacks ::

Use coconut oil for long lashes or thick eye brow

Keep two spoons in fridge then take them in the morning and massage with them under your eyes for de-puffing your face

Do face yoga to get slimer and defined face

Mental glow up

Once you have a really good and powerful mindset no one can stop you from being your best self

Be your own therapist ::

Now take a diary rant on it , write your emotions, explain your day your problem and just imagine it as your best friend who won’t judge you and help you to feel better! When I tell you that paper had more patience than real people I’m telling you the fact ! Being your own therapist can help you be yourself better and just clear up your mind once you share everything with your diary

Explore ::

Go to new places and explore them try to socialise or go on date with yourself yk solo dates spend some time with yourself! Go to cafe or a restaurant and make bunch of friends but don’t get attached to anyone! DONOTTT ! Be bold and confident because you live once and you won’t get that moment in life again so just goo for it ! You don’t wanna be old and regret to not give a goo and enjoy instead you wanna remember those beautiful memories!

Don’t give a Fu.k ::

I Personally love this one ! Because it says your energy from being wasted and your mood probably too…!

All you gotta do is react less and ignore the things that you don’t like or the people you don’t like ! Simple

Eg - they make fun of you because you’re being you :: don’t give a f and enjoy what you’re doin’

You’re bestie showed you her/his real colours and turned out to be a nasty ugly creature [ and a plastic] don’t react it was probably a lesson for you , ignore her / him

[thedesignerblog]

What are the Benefits of Using a Face Pack for Women and How Can It Help with De-tanning?

A face pack for women is one of the most popular beauty treatments, offering a quick and effective way to nourish, revitalize, and rejuvenate the skin. In today’s world, where pollution and sun exposure are common, the demand for natural skincare solutions is growing. A natural de tan pack is particularly beneficial for women who spend a lot of time outdoors, as it helps remove the tan caused by prolonged exposure to the sun. Unlike chemical-laden products, a natural de tan pack is made from ingredients like turmeric, sandalwood, aloe vera, and lemon, which work gently to even out skin tone without causing irritation. These natural ingredients not only de-tan but also hydrate the skin, leaving it soft and glowing.

Apart from using a face pack for women to de-tan, incorporating a detan body scrub into your skincare routine can offer whole-body benefits. The skin on your body is just as susceptible to tanning as your face, and a detan body scrub helps remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and brighten the skin. Ingredients such as coffee, sea salt, or even rice flour in a detan body scrub exfoliate the skin effectively while also improving circulation, which promotes healthy, glowing skin. Regular use of these products not only removes tan but also prevents further damage, making your skin look radiant and youthful.

For women looking to maintain their skin’s health and beauty, opting for face packs that combine de-tanning and moisturizing properties is essential. Many women often focus only on de-tanning without considering the importance of hydration, which can lead to dry and patchy skin. A face pack for women that includes moisturizing elements like honey or avocado provides the skin with the necessary nourishment while still working to remove the tan. The application of such face packs also promotes relaxation, making it a pampering session for both the mind and body. In addition to de-tanning, these face packs often help reduce pigmentation, acne scars, and blemishes, providing a comprehensive skincare solution.

Furthermore, while a face pack for women can target specific areas like the face, neck, and hands, using a combination of a natural de tan pack and a detan body scrub ensures that your entire body benefits from the treatment. This holistic approach is key for women who desire an even skin tone from head to toe. When choosing a face pack or scrub, it’s important to look for natural ingredients that suit your skin type. For instance, women with sensitive skin may prefer a pack with soothing ingredients like cucumber or chamomile, while those with oily skin might opt for clay-based packs that control excess oil and help in de-tanning.

Another important consideration is how often to use these products. While using a natural de tan pack once or twice a week can work wonders for facial de-tanning, a detan body scrub can be used more frequently, especially in the summer months when tanning is more likely. Over-exfoliating, however, can lead to skin irritation, so it’s crucial to balance these treatments with moisturizing and sun protection. Following up your de-tan routine with a good sunscreen is vital to protect the skin from further sun damage.

DIY options for face packs and body scrubs are also available for women who prefer a more hands-on approach to skincare. Simple kitchen ingredients like yogurt, oats, tomato pulp, and turmeric can be mixed to create an effective natural de tan pack that helps brighten and nourish the skin. For a detan body scrub, mixing coffee grounds with olive oil and a few drops of essential oils like lavender or tea tree can create a refreshing scrub that exfoliates and revitalizes the skin. These homemade solutions are not only cost-effective but also free of harmful chemicals, making them an excellent choice for women who want to embrace a more natural skincare routine.

In conclusion, using a face pack for women that specifically targets de-tanning, along with a detan body scrub, can help achieve a radiant, even skin tone. Whether you choose store-bought products or homemade remedies, incorporating these treatments into your skincare regimen will help you combat sun damage, reduce pigmentation, and keep your skin glowing. The key is to select the right products for your skin type, use them consistently, and always follow up with sun protection to maintain your results.

[packagingskunkjars]

Unlocking the Charm of 3 oz Glass Jars: A Versatile Essential for Every Home

In the realm of kitchen storage and home organization, few items rival the humble yet versatile 3 oz glass jar. Often overlooked in favor of its larger counterparts, these pint-sized containers pack a punch when it comes to functionality and aesthetic appeal. From preserving homemade jams to organizing spices and crafting delightful DIY gifts, the 3 oz glass jar proves to be an indispensable asset in any household.

A Pantry Essential:

Imagine a neatly organized pantry where every spice, herb, or seasoning is elegantly displayed in uniform 3 oz glass jars. Not only do these jars enhance the visual appeal of your kitchen shelves, but they also keep your ingredients fresh and easily accessible. Their compact size makes them ideal for storing smaller quantities of spices, ensuring that each ingredient maintains its potency.

Preserving Homemade Goodness:

Preserving jams, jellies, and chutneys is an art form cherished by many culinary enthusiasts. The 3 oz glass jar provides the perfect vessel for these homemade delights. Their airtight seals help maintain freshness and flavor, allowing you to enjoy your preserves long after the harvesting season has passed. These jars are not just containers but also storytellers, preserving memories of summer fruits and cozy winter evenings spent in the kitchen.

Crafting and DIY Projects:

Beyond the kitchen, 3 oz glass jars serve as versatile tools for crafting and DIY projects. They are ideal for creating personalized candles, storing homemade body scrubs or bath salts, and organizing art supplies such as beads or buttons. Their transparent nature allows you to showcase the colors and textures of your creations, making them perfect for handmade gifts that are both practical and beautiful.

Environmental and Health Benefits:

Glass jars are eco-friendly alternatives to plastic containers, contributing to a sustainable lifestyle. They are non-toxic and do not leach harmful chemicals into your food or the environment, making them a safe choice for storing edibles. Additionally, glass is infinitely recyclable, promoting a circular economy and reducing waste.

Versatility in Entertaining:

When hosting gatherings or parties, 3 oz glass jars can elevate your presentation of condiments, sauces, or individual desserts. They add a touch of elegance to your table settings and allow guests to customize their dining experience. Whether serving mini parfaits, layered salads, or decadent chocolate mousses, these jars make portion control effortless while enhancing the visual appeal of your culinary creations.

Organization Beyond the Kitchen:

In bathrooms, offices, or craft rooms, 3 oz glass jars excel at organizing small items like cotton swabs, paper clips, or glitter. Their sleek design and stackability make them efficient space-savers, helping you maintain a clutter-free environment while keeping essentials within easy reach.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the unassuming 3 oz glass jar emerges as a true household hero, seamlessly blending functionality with charm. Whether you are a culinary enthusiast, a DIY aficionado, or simply someone who values organization and sustainability, these jars offer endless possibilities. From preserving seasonal flavors to enhancing your home décor, their versatility knows no bounds. Embrace the elegance and practicality of 3 oz glass jars and discover how these pint-sized wonders can transform your home into a haven of creativity and efficiency.

For more details visit our website www.skunkjarspackaging.com

[thecoffeetongue]

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Beyond the Bean: Unconventional Uses for Coffee in Recipes and DIY Beauty Products

Coffee is undoubtedly one of the most beloved beverages worldwide, cherished for its rich aroma and invigorating taste. Whether it’s a morning ritual or an afternoon pick-me-up, coffee has earned its place in the hearts of millions. But did you know that coffee’s potential extends far beyond being a delightful drink? In this article, we delve into the intriguing world of unconventional uses for coffee in recipes and DIY beauty products. Prepare to be amazed as we explore the versatility of coffee beyond traditional brewing.

While coffee’s primary role may be as a delightful beverage, its unique flavors and properties make it an intriguing ingredient in various culinary creations. From luscious desserts to savory delights, coffee can lend its distinct character to a wide range of dishes. Imagine savoring the exquisite notes of coffee in decadent cakes, enhancing the flavors of meats with a coffee-infused rub, or even incorporating it into tantalizing sauces and marinades. The possibilities are truly limitless when it comes to incorporating coffee into your culinary adventures.

But coffee’s influence doesn’t stop at the kitchen door. The remarkable properties of coffee also make it an exciting ingredient in DIY beauty products. Coffee grounds, with their gentle exfoliating texture, can be transformed into invigorating body scrubs that leave your skin feeling smooth and rejuvenated. Meanwhile, the energizing properties of coffee can be harnessed for hair treatments, offering shine, vitality, and even potential benefits for scalp health. Additionally, coffee can work wonders for the delicate skin around the eyes, helping to reduce puffiness and dark circles.

In this article, we will explore various unconventional uses for coffee, unlocking the secrets of coffee-infused recipes and DIY beauty products. From tantalizing your taste buds to pampering your skin and hair, we invite you to embark on a journey beyond the bean, where coffee’s potential knows no bounds. Get ready to discover the fascinating world of coffee’s versatility and unlock a whole new realm of possibilities.

  Coffee in Recipes

Ah, the delightful world of coffee-infused culinary creations! Coffee’s distinct flavor and aroma can bring a whole new dimension to your favorite sweet treats and savory delights. Let’s dive into the realm of coffee in recipes and explore the wonderful possibilities it offers.

A. Sweet Treats

Picture yourself indulging in a slice of coffee-flavored cake, where each bite delivers a burst of rich coffee goodness. Coffee-infused desserts like cakes, cookies, and even ice creams can elevate your sweet tooth experience to new heights. The infusion of coffee into these treats adds depth and complexity, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving for more.

When the weather calls for something cool and refreshing, why not try coffee-based beverages? Sip on an invigorating iced coffee smoothie or savor the velvety goodness of a coffee milkshake. These beverages combine the familiar comfort of coffee with the delightful chill of a refreshing drink, making them a perfect treat for those warm summer days.

B. Savory Delights

Coffee rubs for meat are a revelation for any culinary enthusiast. Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly cooked steak with a delectable coffee crust. The combination of coffee’s smoky and earthy notes with the savory richness of meat creates a flavor profile that is nothing short of extraordinary. Coffee-rubbed pork is another mouthwatering option that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight.

Coffee’s versatility extends beyond rubs and into marinades and sauces. Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with coffee-infused wonders like coffee BBQ sauce and coffee-glazed delights. The addition of coffee in these savory creations adds depth and complexity to the flavors, transforming your dishes into culinary masterpieces that will impress even the most discerning palates.

Incorporating coffee into recipes opens up a whole new world of culinary possibilities. Whether you’re seeking to indulge your sweet tooth or explore bold flavors in savory dishes, coffee can be your secret ingredient for culinary success. So, go ahead and embark on a culinary adventure, experiment with coffee-infused desserts, or create your own coffee-based beverages. The only limit is your imagination.

Stay tuned as we continue our exploration of coffee’s versatility beyond the kitchen and delve into the exciting world of DIY beauty products. There’s so much more to discover in our journey beyond the bean!  For recipes with coffee checkout my coffee recipe e-book on the home page.

  Coffee in DIY Beauty Products

Now, let’s venture into the realm of DIY beauty products and discover how coffee can work wonders for our skin, hair, and even the delicate area around our eyes. Prepare to be amazed by the transformative properties of coffee in the world of beauty.

A. Coffee Scrubs and Exfoliants

Nothing beats the invigorating sensation of a homemade coffee body scrub. I’ll share some easy-to-follow recipes that will leave your skin feeling smooth, refreshed, and rejuvenated. Coffee grounds, when used as an exfoliant, gently remove dead skin cells, revealing a radiant and glowing complexion. Get ready to pamper yourself with these simple and effective coffee scrub recipes.

Apart from the delightful texture and aroma, coffee offers several benefits as an exfoliant for the skin. Let’s explore how coffee exfoliation can improve circulation, promote a more even skin tone, and even help reduce the appearance of cellulite. Discover the science behind coffee’s exfoliating properties and unlock the secrets to achieving smoother, healthier-looking skin.

B. Coffee Hair Treatments

If you’re looking to revitalize your hair and infuse it with shine and vitality, coffee-infused hair masks are your go-to solution. I’ll guide you through the process of creating nourishing hair masks using coffee as the star ingredient. Uncover the secrets to luscious locks as we delve into the benefits of coffee for hair health.

Are you struggling with hair growth issues or scalp problems? Coffee rinses might just be the solution you’ve been searching for. Discover how coffee rinses can stimulate hair follicles, promote healthy hair growth, and even alleviate scalp conditions. Say goodbye to dull hair and hello to a rejuvenated scalp with these simple coffee rinse recipes.

C. Coffee Face Masks and Eye Treatments

Brighten and rejuvenate your skin with DIY coffee face masks. I’ll share some easy-to-make recipes that harness the power of coffee to promote a healthy and radiant complexion. Explore the benefits of coffee as a natural antioxidant and discover how it can improve the appearance of your skin, leaving you with a youthful glow.

The delicate area around our eyes deserves special attention, and coffee can be a game-changer. Learn how to create your own coffee-infused eye creams or serums that target puffiness and dark circles. Discover the soothing and tightening effects of coffee on the delicate skin around the eyes, helping you achieve a refreshed and revitalized look.

Embrace the natural wonders of coffee in DIY beauty products and unlock a world of self-care and rejuvenation. Get ready to indulge your senses and discover the transformative effects of coffee on your skin, hair, and overall beauty. It’s time to harness the power of coffee and pamper yourself in the most delightful way possible. Stay tuned as we continue our exploration of coffee’s versatility and its remarkable benefits beyond the bean!

  Benefits and Tips

A. When it comes to using coffee in recipes and beauty products, the benefits are truly remarkable. Let’s take a moment to highlight some of the key advantages of incorporating coffee into your culinary and beauty endeavors.

In Recipes:

Enhanced flavor: Coffee adds depth, complexity, and a delightful aroma to various dishes, making them more tantalizing and unforgettable.

Versatility: Coffee’s flavor profile complements both sweet and savory recipes, allowing you to explore a wide range of culinary creations.

Unique twists: Adding coffee to traditional recipes can provide a unique twist, surprising your taste buds and impressing your guests with its distinct character.

In DIY Beauty Products:

Exfoliation and rejuvenation: Coffee grounds make excellent exfoliants, gently buffing away dead skin cells and leaving your skin feeling smoother and revitalized.

Hair health: Coffee can promote hair growth, add shine, and even help address scalp issues, offering a natural and affordable solution for healthier hair.

Skin benefits: Coffee’s antioxidant properties can help combat free radicals, brighten the skin, and reduce puffiness and dark circles around the eyes.

B. To make the most of your coffee-infused adventures, consider these tips and considerations:

In Recipes:

Quality coffee: Choose high-quality coffee beans or grounds to ensure the best flavor and aroma in your recipes.

Experiment with ratios: Play around with different coffee-to-ingredient ratios to achieve the desired level of coffee flavor without overpowering other ingredients.

Balance flavors: Coffee can be intense, so consider balancing its bitterness with other ingredients like sweeteners or complementary flavors.

In DIY Beauty Products:

Use fresh coffee grounds: Freshly ground coffee works best for exfoliation and maximum benefits in beauty products.

Gentle application: Apply coffee-based beauty products with a gentle touch, especially when exfoliating or applying around sensitive areas.

Patch test: Before using coffee-infused beauty products on your skin, perform a patch test to check for any potential allergies or sensitivities.

C. While coffee is generally safe for most people, it’s essential to be aware of potential allergenic or sensitivity concerns and how to address them:

Allergies: Some individuals may be allergic to coffee or have cross-reactivity with other substances. If you experience any allergic reactions like itching, redness, or swelling, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.

Sensitivity: Coffee’s caffeine content may cause sensitivity in some individuals. If you have caffeine sensitivity, consider using decaffeinated coffee or reducing the amount used in recipes or beauty products.

Patch testing: Before applying coffee-infused beauty products to your face or body, conduct a patch test by applying a small amount to a small area of your skin and monitoring for any adverse reactions.

By being mindful of these tips and considerations, you can fully enjoy the benefits of coffee in your recipes and beauty routines while ensuring a safe and pleasant experience. Embrace the versatility of coffee and let its unique qualities enhance your culinary creations and self-care rituals.

Remember, it’s always advisable to consult a healthcare professional or allergist if you have any specific concerns or questions regarding coffee consumption or its use in beauty products.

  Conclusion

As we conclude our exploration of coffee’s versatility in recipes and beauty products, I hope you’re feeling inspired and excited to embark on your own coffee-infused adventures. We’ve uncovered the remarkable potential of coffee beyond traditional brewing, delving into its role as a flavor enhancer in sweet treats and savory delights. Additionally, we’ve discovered how coffee can work wonders in DIY beauty products, from exfoliating scrubs to nourishing hair treatments and rejuvenating face masks.

The journey beyond the bean has revealed the numerous benefits that coffee brings to the table. Its distinct flavor profile, combined with its natural properties, makes it an exceptional ingredient for both culinary creations and self-care routines. Coffee adds depth, complexity, and a touch of indulgence to recipes, tantalizing your taste buds and leaving a lasting impression. In the realm of beauty, coffee’s exfoliating, revitalizing, and soothing qualities bring forth radiant skin, luscious hair, and a refreshed appearance.

Now, it’s time for you to explore and experiment with coffee in creative ways. Let your imagination run wild as you develop coffee-infused recipes that will dazzle your family and friends. Whether it’s a coffee-flavored cake, a savory dish with a coffee rub, or a refreshing coffee-based beverage, the possibilities are endless. And don’t forget to pamper yourself with homemade coffee scrubs, invigorating hair treatments, and rejuvenating face masks. Unleash the power of coffee and embrace the transformative effects it can have on your culinary experiences and self-care rituals.

As you venture forth, remember to select high-quality coffee, balanced flavors, and be mindful of potential allergenic or sensitivity concerns. But most importantly, have fun with it! Experiment, adapt, and create your own unique coffee-inspired masterpieces.

So, my fellow coffee enthusiasts, let’s raise our cups to the remarkable versatility of coffee. May it continue to inspire and delight us in the kitchen and beyond. Cheers to embracing the magic of coffee and exploring its endless potential!

Happy brewing, cooking, and beautifying!

[empressofdiamonds]

𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐫 𝐁𝐚𝐫𝐛𝐢𝐞 🌸

Personal checklist of routines for this summer

Moisturize every single day, scrub body every other day, do DIY coffee, clay or yogurt face masks every week. Wash off the face every morning, apply moisturizer right away. Moisturize the face right after shower. Glowing babe here!!

Use body glitter, use my favourite perfume, smell heavenly and look heavenly.

One day of fasting per week, for health purposes.

Smoothies, fruit salads, veggie salads, fruit popsicles everyday. Something crunchy, something juicy and full of good stuff.

Go at the beach one day a week.

Spend my evenings with my family and go visit the faraway family often. Do some art too every evening, it can be drawing, be sketching, be researching.

Go at the library before work, to read during my shifts.

2 hours of screen time per day, not more than 15 min at once. I have a life, I'll live it. Use that time to talk to my precious friends.

[infolibrary]

10 DIY Physique Scrubs Made for Summer season

New Post has been published on http://www.infolibrary.net/10-diy-physique-scrubs-made-for-summer-season/

10 DIY Physique Scrubs Made for Summer season

Raspberry Lemon Sugar Scrub | 10 DIY Physique Scrubs Made for Summer season | www.hercampus.com…

Source by bwells143

[heyitsgigisadventures]

5 DIY Body Scrubs to Make This Summer

5 DIY Body Scrubs to Make This Summer   Do you want to transform your skin this Summer? Try one of these 5 DIY body scrubs! They’re all insanely easy to create, and will have your skin feeling silky smooth and smelling divine!     Do you want to literally glow up overnight using the Light Feminine method? Click here!     Hey, pretty people!   Summer is swiftly approaching, and what better way to…

[nourishingmyroots]

Coffee Sugar Scrub Cubes

One of my favorite add’ins for sugar scrubs lately has been coffee grounds, one of my least favorite things though is the mess in the shower that can happen when using a coffee sugar scrub. While they may not be the prettiest bath and body product these cubes give you the best of both worlds, the exfoliating benefits of coffee with less of the mess.

Use it on your face (avoid eye area), arms,…

[autostraddle]

Stay smooth for the summer with these recipes to make your own skincare from The Body Politik’s Carmen Perez! 

[soapdeli]

This blueberry sugar scrub recipe with tea seed oil is perfect for summer! Not only does it gently exfoliate and moisturize skin but it smells amazing! 

And, there are even free printable labels for gifting! Learn more here. Or repin this project here for later.

Want more homemade sugar scrub recipes? You can find my full collection of homemade sugar scrub recipes here. Also be sure to check out my recent recipe for making your own cucumber mint sugar scrub!

For even more homemade bath and body recipes, be sure to check out and follow my DIY Bath and Body Pinterest board. You can also find and follow me on G+, Tumblr, Facebook, Twitter, Blog Lovin’, and Instagram. Or sign up to receive new posts from Soap Deli News blog to your email via FeedBurner so you never miss a post.

[gloriouskiaa]

7 Amazing Tips for Summer-ready skin

When the weather warms up, we all want to uncover a bit more of our skin.

Even if you're looking forward to ditching the warm overalls in favor of crop tops and skirts, we can all cop to a little sun-induced anxiety – even if we decide to bare all, would our skin be summer-ready?

This year, you won't have to think about it; just pursue our top tips and you'll have dazzling, sun-kissed skin all summer long.

Summer skin care routine for dry skin

Summers hit your skin every year. The scorching sun, ozone, humidity, and other factors remove its normal radiance and, in some cases, invite infections. But fret not, here are easy-peasy strategies you should try this season to stop all of these hassles and keep your skin glowing like it should.

1) Exfoliate

You must exfoliate your skin regularly to make it look lighter. This extracts the dead tissue, which can dull your skin tone if left unchecked. Also, you'd give your skin a new look and feel while removing toxic parabens by investing in an exfoliating scrub utilizing natural ingredients.

Tip: Use repetitive movements to apply the exfoliating scrub throughout your face and body. Doing this at least 2 times a week will hold your skin in high quality during the season, preventing your pores from being obstructed by sun screen as well.  

2) Moisturize

An additional advantage of a successful exfoliation regimen is that the skin becomes ready for effective moisturizing. This is ideal in the summer, because your skin needs all the hydration it can get to help combat sunburns. You will add natural softness to your skin by quenching your parched skin with moisturizers, particularly after exfoliation. In addition, moisturizing the skin gives the tan removal an additional advantage.  

3) Shave and Shower, correctly

No one likes stinging sunburns, so you can mitigate the sunburn pain by constantly replacing your shaving blades. It is also a smart thing to shorten the shaving duration. You see, long shaves using steaming hot water dry the skin, you can instead use lukewarm or cool water to close the pores while soothing your skin.

4) Always protect from the sun

You may like the summer tan, but it would be foolish to take no care against the sun's harsh UV rays.  After all, nobody feels attractive with sunburnt skin, just make sure you cover yourself well before stepping out in the sun.

Although you might still get some sunburns despite all the preparations in the world you undertake. However, you need not suffer – add refreshing gels to calm your affected red patches of skin.  Furthermore, products that use aloe vera's natural strength appear to perform their healing quicker.

5) Facials

Believe us, those women who always appear to have flawless skin are not blessed with a fantastic skin since birth. It takes long-term commitment on your part to flaunt apparently faultless skin all year.

Spa's facial bookings give your skin a regular deep cleansing that unclogs the pores and removes defects. However, the dilemma is that daily visits to the spa or clinic are both time-taking and expensive.

So, why not be a facialist on your own?

Proper home facials not only rejuvenate your skin but also are a must if you plan on tan-removal as an element of your beauty routine.  

6) Pedicure

Often you forget, but keeping your toes in top shape is critical.

Face it, you would have stuffed your bad feet more than you should've in boots all season, but you'd just need a bit of care until they are safe from the scorching summer heat.  

Tip – File your feet's rough skin, then lather with a lotion until you sit your feet into cotton socks overnight as a perfect DIY pedicure for your feet. This is a sure-fire way to get your feet in top shape for the summer.

7) Eat and drink well

The look of your skin reflects the way you handle your body very well. Maintaining a healthy diet can lead to better skin visibly.

In order to preserve the necessary moisture balance for your body, aim to drink 8 glasses of water a day – it will maintain a healthy, detoxified skin. The idea to load luscious fruits and veggies which moisturize and feed your skin from within is also a good one.

Consider changing your Face Wash and Face Scrub.  

Use a Refreshing Toner.  

Change Your Moisturizer.

Exfoliate Routinely for Smoother Skin.  

Wear Sunscreen before stepping out.  

Include Antioxidants in Your Facial Skin Care Routine.  

Keep Your Skin Hydrated.  

Use minimal, chemicals-laden Makeup.  

Kiaa

Republiks

Green tea & Aloe Vera Clarifying Moisturizer with Argan Oil

This dermatologically tested and revolutionary formulation by Kiaa Republiks can be used as a day & night cream by both men and women. It works overnight to repair your skin's damaged cells, and thus helps in combating ageing, treating acne as well as dry skin.  

Ingredients:

Aloe Vera Juice: Moisturizing aloe vera juice has been reportedly said to contribute to a decrease in acne occurrence and appearance of red-patched, irritated skin. It may also alleviate chronic conditions of the skin, such as dermatitis and psoriasis. Aloe vera contains certain types of antioxidants and vitamins that can help to protect the skin.

Argan Oil- The antioxidants and vitamin E present in argan oil help to soothe and reduce inflammation caused by acne and promote skin regeneration and healing. Applying argan oil also helps control excess oil production to prevent future acne.

Green Tea: Green tea contains six distinct polyphenols with the strongest ones being Epicatechin gallate (ECG) and Epigallocatechin (EGCG). Antioxidants are compounds that are capable of fighting free radicals within the organism. Free radicals can affect your body as well as skin's, health if their levels ever get too high. Free radicals can also lead to cell damage, and many diseases, including certain types of cancer associated with it.

Kiaa Repubiks' De-Tan & Skin Exfoliation Combo

- Face Scrub, Clarifying Face Mask & Foaming Face Wash

Soothe and detoxify your skin this summer with Kiaa Republiks face scrub and face wash. The combo guarantees tan removal, skin exfoliation and deep cleansing.  

Ingredients:

Activated charcoal purifies the skin from bacteria, chemicals, grime, and grease. It also acts as an excellent exfoliator because it's a peel-off mask, which rids the skin of dead cells. The final outcome is smooth, translucent skin.  If used as a powder, these masks can penetrate deep into the pores and remove all impurities from within.

Turmeric and curcumin are the most active substances in particular and have many statistically proven health benefits, such as healing properties for cardiac illness, Alzheimer's disease and cancer prevention possibilities. It is a powerful anti-inflammatory antioxidant that can also help relieve depression and arthritis symptoms.

Saffron includes an amazing array of antioxidant plant compounds – organic molecules that shield you from oxidative stress and free radicals.

Notable antioxidants found in saffron are: crocin, crocetin, saffron and kaempferol.  

Crocin and crocetin have a red tint with carotenoid pigments. Both can induce antidepressant properties, preventing progressive damage to brain cells, increasing inflammation and lowering appetite to help lose weight.

Parting words: Ensure that your skin shines all summer!

To fall in love with your skin this summer, apply the top tips given above and you will not believe the wonder that follows! For even better results, use Kiaa Republiks' recommended products for long-lasting skin benefits.  

[scribeofmorpheus]

Chasing Tornadoes {3/6}

Pairing: Stephen Strange x Reader

Series Warnings: poorly written medical procedural, mild delving into spirituality, language, overbearing egos, graphic descriptions of medical procedures. more warnings to be added. 18+ Generally, like my blog.

A/N: suprisingly, very little to warn about. blood splatter?

Series Masterlist | Masterlist | AO3

Taglist is open -comment or send an ask!

<< Previously ○ Next >>

~

“God, you’re insufferable!” You slammed your clipboard into Stephen’s chest, it was surprisingly firm in a subtle way. You swallowed.

Stephen grabbed your wrist, not tightly, but firm enough to lock you in his grasp. He tugged, you moved forward against your wishes.

“And you’re so goddamn stubborn,” he whispered.

You shook your head, “I can’t believe you went around my back and interfered with my patient! That wasn’t your call. If I wanted your help, I’d ask for it!”

Stephen inched you towards the wall, back pressed to the familiar hospital walls. “You and I both know, I was the more qualified to handle this one.”

Why is he being so blasé about all this? Your breath hitched when he moved in a little closer. Why is he so close?

“Steph—”

He cut you off, lips prompting a rise in euphoria as soon as they met yours. They were soft, supple. But there was a boldness beneath it. You whimpered, finding it strikingly good. Deliciously good. And then while your head spun and Stephen stole your breaths, your surroundings changed to the familiar navy blue of the OR.

You gasped and pushed Stephen softly, “How did we…?”

Stephen followed your gaze.

A group of surgeons, masked up and gloved up, were performing surgery on a banana. You stuttered, at a loss for words. Stephen shrugged, unphased and then moved his attention back to you. Lips a mere millimetre away.

You recoiled, “Stephen.”

“What?” He asked, somewhat disappointed.

You pointed your ring finger at the operating table, “The banana.”

“Oh, right,” He turned. “How’s our patient?”

A beeping noise sounded out. A fellow spoke: “He’s going into cardiac arrest.” The beeping stopped. “He’s gone.”

“I’m calling it, time of death—”

You were shaken from your sleep by the sudden reorientation. With a loud thud, you landed hard on your ass, the sheets tangling one foot.

You rubbed your eyes, vision coming back blurry and spotted, “What the hell kind of dream was that?” Your fingers trailed over your lips. Dry and chapped and sorely missing the softness of the dream. You groaned, in no mood to deal with some romance drama in the workplace.

You were roused from the floor by the sound of something breaking. With heavy eye-lids and noodle arms, you hoisted yourself up and walked towards the kitchen, the source of the sound.

Rich loam soil and four fragmented pieces of a flower pot lay scattered on the floor. A small root system was peeking out from under the stove; it belonged to a cactus. The last cactus you owned.

You groaned as your eyes trailed up to the former resting place of the now destroyed flower pot and saw Spike’s fat reptilian body trying to slink away.

“Oh no you don’t, you leathery cat,” you hopped over the mess on the floor and grabbed Spike. You held him close to your face so you could stare into his eyes. “What is it with you and cactuses?”

Spikes tongue slithered out then in again before he let out a whiny growl.

You rolled your eyes and scolded him, “If you keep this up I’ll put you up for adoption.” You clicked your tongue in annoyance as you opened up the balcony door and let Spike down next to the arbour. “You stay out here and think about what you’ve done while I make breakfast.”

Spike made another lazy growl before moving away from the door at a snail’s pace. You hastily swept up the soil from your wooden floors and set aside the broken ceramic pieces in case you wanted to use them for another DIY home decor project.

While you put together a fruit bowl for breakfast, you noticed you hadn’t checked your voicemail. As you squeezed out the last two drops of honey onto your breakfast, you listened absentmindedly to the voice messages while making a mental checklist.

“Hey, Y/N…” Teddy’s soft voice reminded you of a lounge singer who smoked too many cigarettes in between sets. The kind of swaggerful baritone that belonged to men like Frank Sinatra or Nat King Cole. Ironically, Teddy’s face matched the softness of his name more than it did his pitch in voice. “I sent a few messages but I suppose you were on shift. That tornado…messy stuff. My cousin is local fire department, she told me—”

Remember to pay Mr Eliopoulos for the takeout. Teddy’s voice dissolved into white noise as you chewed your food. Get some bills out the ATM to keep on hand.

The next message played after a beep and you weren’t the slightest bit sorry you didn’t fully catch the rest of Teddy’s message.

“Y/N, it’s Irene.” –You froze. For a second– “I don’t know if you deleted my number after the last time we talked or not so…Yeah. It’s Irene,” your sister’s voice was a startling surprise to hear. She sounded as lively as a doornail, probably all the hours spent banging her head instead of her gavel in the courtroom. Irene thrived in the city, even if she never looked fully awake in any of her social media posts. You didn’t care much for city life and its exhausting churn.

Remember to save Irene’s number. Again.

“Mum called me, frantic that you didn’t call or text to say you were okay. She watched the news. The tornado rattled her. Your phone was off the whole day. I had to clear a whole day’s worth of meetings because her angina was acting up.” Irene was rambling in her monotone.

Angina isn’t a disease.

Irene paused as if she’d heard what you’d thought. Then she took a breath. You could practically picture her working her jaw muscles as she fought the urge to get emotional. “Call mum.”

Call mum.

The distance between you and Irene wasn’t consolidated to the miles between your cities. Irene was prickly, like a cactus. Maybe that’s why you had so much trouble growing them. But she was also the only person on the I-95 highway who stopped to pick up a wounded iguana on her cross-country trip that winter you moved into your apartment. That iguana was Spike. That was also the first and last time Irene ever stepped foot in your apartment. And the second time you’d deleted her phone number.

“Or at the very least, post one of those disturbing pictures of Spike dressed in baby clothes,” Irene’s tone turned condescending. There was some chatted on her end of the line. “I’m needed in the chamber.”

No rush saving her number. You swallowed the last spoonful of food before dumping your bowl in the sink. Then you opened the balcony door to let Spike back in.

A third beep. Another message.

“Dr Y/N?” the voice on the other end of the line was now very familiar to you. For a second, you wondered if you were still dreaming. “Dr Stephen Strange. The relief. I got your number from the on-call sheet. Just letting you know I got the go ahead first thing this morning to prep for the transplant. I’ll be the chief surgeon on staff. Marcy is in the best hands. Literally. I’ll see you at work.”

Ask about the transplant. You head shot up so fast you were convinced it’d crack like an Indiana Jones style bullwhip. Transplant?

“Marcy…” you mumbled before rushing to get to the shower. Just then another message played. The last. On it, Mike told you he was on his way to pick you up and that you should do something, but you weren’t paying much attention at that point. You had less than five minutes before he arrived.

Your shower was cold and quick. About half-way through, you realised the conditioner was practically empty. No time to fully detangle your bed-head knots, you raked your fingers through and washed all the shampoo away, making sure to add a little styling crème so your hair wouldn’t look like frizzy from the summer humidity.

You made sure to grab your go-bag, keys and lock the balcony door before rushing out the door just as Mike pulled into the driveway.

Mike had dark circles under his eyes, wind tousled hair that was still damp in places and an outstretched hand dangling out the car window with a coffee flask waiting expectantly.

You grabbed it and hastily made your way to the passenger side.

“Thanks,” you said out of breath as you unscrewed the cap and took a swig. Mike looked at you with a perplexed expression. When no coffee touched your tongue it was your turn to look back at Mike with a similar expression. “It’s empty.”

Mike nodded, “I know it’s empty.”

“Why’d you give me an empty flask?”

“Because you were supposed to make the coffee.

“Then you should have told me to.”

“I did.”

“You didn’t.”

Mike stared at you with a knowing look for a second too long. He sighed, rubbing his red eyes, “You didn’t listen to the whole voice message did you?”

You opened your mouth to retort but then you realised Mike was right. You clicked your tongue, “We can stop by the café near the intersection.”

“You’re buying,” Mike put the car in drive while you tried your best to distract yourself from thinking about Marcy.

“Tell me something new.”

 You got dressed into the maroon scrubs in the locker room. Your lanyard feeling particularly heavy that day. Maybe you weren’t as ready for today as you thought you were.

You had hoped and prayed to whatever constituted as a god on any particular day that Marcy would get a new lung. A healthy lung. And that she’d finally get to experience her youth, but now your hands wouldn’t stop shaking and your heart was so loud you wanted to scream just to shut it up.

But today was here and you only had the one heart, so you made a fist, took a long, deep breath and ran towards the OR.

Bach in C minor was playing over the sound of the heart-lung machine. There had been a slight pause when you walked into the OR mid-surgery, but everything continued without fail.

You knew, logically, that observing from the theatre was the right thing to do. The impartial thing to do. But this wasn’t any patient. This was Marcy. The girl you helped with her science homework that one weekend she came in for a check-up and stayed for a minor surgical procedure. The girl you watched rerun’s on cable TV with when you had the night shift. The girl you watched grow up.

Doctor Weisz was among the medical staff in the room. Strange didn’t bother looking away from Marcy’s open chest cavity.

“I don’t remember calling for a second pair of hands,” Strange said as if he was talking to himself. “Did you Doctor?”

Doctor Weisz’s words came out muffled behind her mask, “No.” She kept an impressive straight face. Come to think of it, you had never seen her smile. Or get angry. She was always professional. Even her haircut was a choice of convenience; short and slicked back.

You stepped out from behind Strange’s frame and moved in closer to Marcy. It was a little unsettling how normal she looked in a hospital gown with the elastic of her breathing mask drawing two red lines across her cheeks. The open chest cavity was different though. Unsightly.

Your fingers trembled, reaching out to hold her open palm lying flat on the table when the sudden loud beeping of the heart rate monitor shook you to action.

A squirt of blood sprayed out, turning the sterile blue operating gowns dark with plasma.

 “She’s bleeding,” Strange noted as if reading a catalogue. “There’s too much scar tissue.”

“BP is dropping. Fast,” Mike said. You hadn’t even noticed him in the room.

“Clamps,” Doctor Weisz’s hand was stretched expectantly to the fellow behind her.

Your feet were glued in place, like a statue with open eyes that couldn’t look away, just watching. Your brain yelled at you to snap out of it, let your training take over, set your emotions to backburner. But none of it worked.

“Someone get her out of my OR!” Strange’s composure shifted for the first time. It was then that you noticed your hand was holding tightly onto Marcy’s.

Just as Strange instructed, someone grabbed your hand and pulled towards the doors. Once you were out in the bright hallway you realised it was Mike.

 In the last couple of hours, you had treated a kid with tonsillitis, a man with a hangnail and one skateboarder with a concussion.

Why’d today have to be a slow day?

You sighed as you flipped through a medical chart Arlene had handed over for a second pair of eyes to go over.

“You said she came in with a fever?”

Arlene stammered before straightening her spine, “Y-yes.”

You kept quiet for a few seconds, waiting for Arlene to jump on cue and finish telling you the symptoms. She didn’t.

“Arlene?”

“Yes?” She looked up, big eyes fully attentive. Her innocence was endearing, but if not grown out of, it’d be a hindrance in this profession.

“This is usually when you fill me in.”

“Oh, right,” she fumbled with her chart. “Uh…loss of appetite, abdominal cramps and joint paint.”

“What’s your diagnosis?” You looked up at the wall clock, watching the hands tick.

Arlene fidgeted, “M-my diagnosis? I um…” She wiped her forehead as if there was sweat on it. “Cramps, fever and joint pain could be…stomach flu?”

“Viral gastroenteritis, yes,” you agreed with her diagnosis. “Treatment?”

Arlene was getting more confident, “Rehydration Solution, anti-viral—”

“Good, do it,” You excused yourself when you spotted Mike walking down the hall. The surgery was done.

“Mike!” You caught his attention. “So…how’d it go?”

Mike tried to miss eye contact, “She’s stable. Transplant wrapped up okay.”

“Something’s wrong, isn’t it?”

“No, no, nothing like that,” Mike rushed to place his hands on your elbows. “Marcy’s fine, taking well to the lung. She’s on assisted breathing until the rupture heals and the pressure is relieved on her muscles. She will have to stay in Recovery for longer but she’ll pull through.”

You laughed, a bright smile beaming over your face, “Then what’s the issue?”

Mike bit his lip, “Strange recommended to Weisz that you be put on probation for the time being.

Anger rushed unexpectedly, “What?”

Stephen suddenly appeared down the hallway. You marched over to him. He looked at you, expecting your oncoming aggression.

“You recommended I be put on probation?” You folded your arms to seem imposing.

Stephen glanced knowingly at Mike. Mike shrugged before disappearing into the lounge.

“God, you’re insufferable!” You flashed back to your dream and now you were confused as to what exactly you should be feeling.

“And if today is any indication, you’re too emotional,” he said softly.

You baulked, feeling insulted, “Too emotional?”

He rubbed his neck, “I told you about the operation out of professional courtesy. You had no right to barge into my OR and distract from the procedure. You put a bad foot forward, unprofessional. Weisz agreed. I suggested temporary probation to prevent Weisz from dealing a worse blow.”

You scoffed, “So you were helping me, is that it?”

“Yes,” he sounded on edge. “You’re too raw to be working right now. If I was your superior, I wouldn’t be assured that you could competently manage the rigorous expectations of the workplace.”

“Unbelievable, you really do walk around thinking you know everything, that your word is final. Mike was right, you have no reason to overstep your boundaries. You’re the relief, not my boss,” You threw your arms up in the air, ignoring the other residents listening in.

Stephen sighed, pushing passed you, ending the argument prematurely.¨

“Where are you going?” You demanded, following in stride.

“To get a drink,” he pressed his eyelids. “If you insist on still handing me my ass, you are welcome to join.”

You stalled for a second then decided to continue your squabble.

To be continued...