#effective treatment method

[thatcurlychic]

7 Natural Hair Growth Tips Using Herbs and Oils 

How to Grow Your Hair Naturally Using Herbs and Oils Hair growth is a common concern for many people, especially those with curly or textured hair. There are many products and treatments available to help promote hair growth, but many are not natural, can have long-term detrimental effects on the hair, or contain harsh chemicals.  In this article, we will explore some tips to help promote…

[slaughterneko]

I was talking to my partner about this because we saw the D&D movie this week, and honestly in my opinion I felt like most of the practical effects weren't very good. A lot of the full character work especially just felt incredibly fake, and considering how much actual CG went into this movie to make the fantastical concepts work I was surprised they bothered with practical effects at all.

Granted, the actual CG was hit or miss at times too I think the depiction of halflings specifically might be some of the worst VFX I've seen in a long time

I’ve been skimming John Francis Daley’s (director on D&D: Honor Among Thieves) twitter and I continue to be so completely blown away by the movie’s commitment to practical effects and/or minimized CGI where feasible. I mean holy shit look at all this

[insanenightcore]

my thoughts wrt suicide are like this: i believe people should be able to make their own choices about it. suicide is not the problem, it is a symptom of it. the suicide prevention that works best would be the one that improves people's lives such that they don't WANT/feel that their only option is to die

[blackgirlslivingwell]

Naturals Are Relaxing Their Hair? The Dangers of Chemical Relaxers

Chemical relaxers are making a comeback. Let me remind you of how harmful they are.

[ganitsoni]

Effective Mole Removal Treatment in Hyderabad

Moles, while sometimes adding character, can also be bothersome when they appear in unwanted places or grow too large. Understanding how to effectively remove them is crucial for enhancing both appearance and comfort.

Understanding Moles

Medically known as 'nevi,' moles are pigmented spots that can appear anywhere on the body. They vary in color and size, and while most are harmless, they can become inconvenient or aesthetically displeasing.

Causes of Moles

Moles develop when melanocytes, the cells that produce skin pigment (melanin), grow in clusters instead of spreading evenly throughout the skin. The exact cause of this clustering is not fully understood, but factors like genetics, sun exposure, and hormonal changes may play a role.

Benefits of Mole Removal

Removing moles can improve appearance and alleviate discomfort caused by their location or size. Whether on the face or body, removing troublesome moles can restore confidence and prevent irritation from clothing or accessories.

Effective Removal Options

While home remedies are often ineffective, professional treatments at a specialized skin clinic offer safe and efficient solutions. In Hyderabad, Dr. Venus Aesthetic Clinics provide various effective mole removal treatments such as Electrocautery, Radiofrequency (RF), Q-switched Nd laser, and Punch Excision. These treatments are tailored to the size and depth of the mole, ensuring precise and satisfactory results.

Why Choose Dr. Venus Aesthetic Clinics in Hyderabad?

Dr. Venus Aesthetic Clinics are renowned for their expertise in mole removal treatments. They offer personalized care with experienced dermatologists and state-of-the-art equipment, ensuring a comfortable and effective treatment experience. Patients benefit from a range of treatment options designed to meet individual skin needs.

Treatment Process

The treatment journey at Dr. Venus Aesthetic Clinics begins with a thorough consultation with a dermatologist who assesses the moles and recommends the most suitable removal method. During the treatment session, the area is prepared and the procedure is performed under local anesthesia to ensure comfort. Aftercare instructions are provided to facilitate proper healing without complications.

Who Should Consider Mole Removal?

Anyone bothered by unwanted or bothersome moles is a suitable candidate for mole removal at Dr. Venus Aesthetic Clinics. Both men and women can benefit from these treatments to achieve smoother, clearer skin.

Precautions and Results

Prior to treatment, patients may receive topical preparations to prepare the skin. Post-treatment, minor side effects like temporary redness may occur, but these typically resolve quickly. Local anesthesia ensures minimal discomfort during the procedure, with results often noticeable after the first session and improving with subsequent treatments.

Conclusion

Choosing mole removal at Dr. Venus Aesthetic Clinics in Hyderabad ensures professional care and effective results. Whether for aesthetic enhancement or comfort improvement, these treatments offer a safe and reliable solution. For those considering mole removal, consulting with a dermatologist at Dr. Venus Aesthetic Clinics provides personalized guidance and treatment options tailored to individual needs.

Mole removal at Dr. Venus Aesthetic Clinics not only enhances appearance but also restores confidence and comfort, ensuring a positive impact on overall well-being.

How To Get Started With The Treatment?

Get started by calling 📞72075 44443 to book an appointment at any of our Three clinics in Hyderabad. We have clinics located in the Kondapur Branch, Chanda Nagar Branch, and Gachibowli Branch. You can alternatively book an appointment by filling in the Book Appointment form.

[confidentialaddictionassessmen]

Residential Rehabilitation: A Haven for Healing

Have you or someone you care about been struggling with addiction, feeling like there's no way out? Residential Rehabilitation, often referred to as inpatient treatment, offers a sanctuary for individuals seeking to break free from the chains of addiction and embark on a journey of healing and renewal. In the United States, where substance abuse continues to exact a heavy toll on individuals and communities, residential rehab centers serve as beacons of hope, providing comprehensive support and resources to guide individuals toward lasting recovery. Let's delve into the world of residential rehabilitation and explore how it can be a transformative step towards a brighter future.

Understanding Residential Rehabilitation

Residential rehabilitation is a comprehensive form of addiction treatment that provides individuals with a supportive and structured environment to focus solely on their recovery. Unlike outpatient programs where individuals return home after treatment sessions, residential rehab requires participants to reside at the treatment facility for the duration of their program, typically ranging from 30 to 90 days or longer.

The Immersive Experience

Residential rehab offers an immersive experience that allows individuals to immerse themselves fully in the recovery process. By residing at the facility 24/7, participants are removed from the triggers and temptations of their everyday environment, creating a safe and supportive space where they can focus on their healing journey without distractions.

Structured Schedule: Residential rehab programs follow a structured daily schedule, incorporating a combination of therapy sessions, educational workshops, recreational activities, and downtime for reflection and self-care. This structured approach helps individuals establish healthy routines and habits conducive to sobriety.

Round-the-Clock Support: One of the key advantages of residential rehab is access to round-the-clock support from trained professionals who are available to provide guidance, encouragement, and assistance whenever needed. Whether it's addressing cravings, managing withdrawal symptoms, or navigating emotional challenges, individuals have access to support every step of the way.

Peer Support: Residential rehab fosters a sense of camaraderie and connection among participants, allowing them to form bonds with peers who understand their struggles and can offer empathy, encouragement, and accountability. These peer relationships often extend beyond the confines of treatment, providing a valuable support network in the journey of recovery.

The Benefits of Residential Rehabilitation

Choosing residential rehabilitation offers a multitude of benefits that can significantly enhance an individual's chances of achieving and maintaining sobriety. From intensive therapy to holistic wellness activities, residential rehab addresses the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of addiction, setting the stage for long-term recovery success.

Comprehensive Treatment Approach

Residential rehab programs employ a comprehensive treatment approach that addresses the multifaceted nature of addiction. Through a combination of evidence-based therapies, medical interventions, and holistic wellness practices, individuals receive personalized care tailored to their unique needs and circumstances.

Therapeutic Interventions: Residential rehab offers a wide range of therapeutic interventions, including individual counseling, group therapy, family therapy, and specialized modalities such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and trauma-informed care. These therapies help individuals explore the underlying issues contributing to their addiction, develop coping skills, and cultivate resilience in the face of challenges.

Medical Support: In addition to therapeutic interventions, residential rehab programs provide access to medical care and supervision to ensure the safety and well-being of participants. This may include medical detoxification for individuals with substance dependence, medication management for co-occurring mental health disorders, and ongoing monitoring of physical health throughout the treatment process.

Holistic Wellness Activities: Recognizing the importance of addressing the mind, body, and spirit in recovery, residential rehab programs incorporate holistic wellness activities such as yoga, mindfulness meditation, art therapy, nutrition education, and fitness classes. These activities promote overall well-being and empower individuals to cultivate a balanced and healthy lifestyle in sobriety.

Relapse Prevention Strategies

Residential rehab equips individuals with the tools, strategies, and resources needed to prevent relapse and maintain sobriety in the long term. Through education, skill-building exercises, and ongoing support, participants learn to identify triggers, manage cravings, and navigate high-risk situations without turning to substances.

Relapse Prevention Education: Residential rehab programs provide comprehensive education on the nature of addiction, the cycle of relapse, and the importance of developing coping skills and healthy coping mechanisms. By understanding the factors that contribute to relapse, individuals can proactively address potential triggers and stressors in their environment.

Skill-Building Exercises: Residential rehab teaches practical skills and techniques to help individuals cope with cravings, manage stress, and navigate interpersonal relationships in sobriety. These skills may include assertiveness training, problem-solving skills, communication skills, and stress management techniques.

Aftercare Planning: As individuals prepare to transition out of residential rehab, treatment teams work collaboratively with participants to develop personalized aftercare plans tailored to their specific needs and goals. These plans may include ongoing therapy, participation in support groups, medication management, vocational training, and housing assistance to support individuals in their continued recovery journey.

Taking the First Step Towards Recovery

The decision to seek help for addiction is a courageous one, and residential rehabilitation offers a supportive and nurturing environment to begin the journey of recovery. If you or someone you care about is struggling with addiction, know that help is available, and you don't have to face it alone. Take the first step today towards a brighter future filled with hope, healing, and renewal.

[magicpotions123]

Simplified Guide to Skin Whitening Injections: Key Facts

Skin whitening injections, primarily composed of Glutathione, have surged in popularity due to their potential to enhance skin tone and reduce hyperpigmentation. These intravenous skin lightening treatments are often combined with other components like ascorbic acid injections, alpha-lipoic acid for skin lightening, and Vitamin C to boost the whitening effects. The role of Vitamin C in skin whitening is well-documented, with many proponents pointing to its antioxidant properties that detoxify the skin, enhancing its brightness. Similarly, collagen is believed to contribute to skin brightness, while other antioxidants used in the procedure further help in skin lightening. To ensure safety, many individuals are turning to FDA-approved skin whitening methods and natural skin brightening techniques that make use of melanin inhibitors and whitening boosters. Additionally, when aiming to address issues of uneven skin tone or dark spots, it's imperative to choose safe skin lightening injections that effectively treat hyperpigmentation without causing harm.

[delta-remediation]

Unleashing the Power of Biostimulation: A Blueprint to Soil Microbe Optimization for Effective Pollution Treatment

Unmasking Biostimulation

Biostimulation is a cutting-edge application in environmental science, drawing upon the potency of natural processes to rectify man-induced predicaments such as soil pollution.

Deciphering Biostimulation

The heart of biostimulation lies in augmenting the indigenous microbial population dwelling within the soil. This bioremediation process fosters the expansion and functionality of these native microbes, enabling them to degrade organic pollutants with increased efficiency.

The Biostimulation Phenomenon

The DNA of Biostimulation

Biostimulation's lifeblood is to furnish an optimum habitat for microbes. When placed under perfect conditions, these tiny organisms can skillfully dismantle pollutants.

The Biostimulation Blueprint

The biostimulation procedure springs into action with an examination of the soil, quantifying the microbial presence and the degree of contamination. Following this evaluation, a tailored biostimulation strategy is concocted and executed, typically involving nutrient enrichment or other stimulating additives.

Microbes: The Unsung Heroes of Biostimulation

Microorganisms, predominantly bacteria, are the linchpins in the biostimulation system. These minute entities, ubiquitous in the soil, possess the capability to dismantle various pollutants under favorable circumstances.

The Tools of Biostimulation

Nutrient Infusion

Like all life forms, microbes demand nutrients to prosper. Supplying them with nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and other essential micronutrients can amplify their populace and metabolic vigor.

Emulsified Vegetable Oils

These oils serve as a gradual carbon source, fostering sustained microbial activity in the soil.

Regulation of Moisture and Air

Microbial decomposition often necessitates water and oxygen. Therefore, moisture and air are intermittently pumped into the polluted soil to promote microbial activity.

The Upsides of Biostimulation

Biostimulation proves to be a cost-efficient and eco-friendly strategy. It harnesses nature’s own janitorial squad, thereby negating the use of damaging chemical treatments or costly mechanical extractions.

The Variables in Biostimulation

The triumph of biostimulation is hinged on numerous aspects, including the soil's properties, the contaminants' character, and the native microbial populace. This necessitates exhaustive preliminary evaluations as a universal approach would not suffice.

Biostimulation vs Bioaugmentation

While biostimulation centers on boosting the native microbial community, bioaugmentation is a complementary process that imports specialized microbes into the soil to expedite the degradation procedure.

Biostimulation in the Real World

Spotlight on Biostimulation

Biostimulation has displayed its efficacy in addressing oil spills, industrial waste leaks, and even fallout from nuclear calamities. It is also being probed in the realm of agriculture for superior soil fertility management and pest deterrence.

Biostimulation: The Road Ahead

Amid escalating environmental concerns, biostimulation harbors immense potential. Progress in research and technological advancements might soon canonize this method as a mainstream practice for soil decontamination.

Epilogue Indeed, biostimulation serves as a natural, cost-effective, and efficient antidote to soil pollution. As we journey towards a greener future, employing the prowess of microbes via biostimulation will be instrumental in safeguarding our environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What underpins biostimulation? Biostimulation pivots on the enhancement of the soil's native microbial community to dismantle organic pollutants.

What influences biostimulation's success rate? Aspects such as soil type, contaminant nature, and the regional microbial population shape the success of biostimulation.

How does biostimulation square up to bioaugmentation? Biostimulation focuses on stimulating the existing microbial community, while bioaugmentation brings specialized microbes into the soil.

What are the common applications of biostimulation? Biostimulation has found utility in handling oil spills, industrial waste leaks, and in agriculture for maintaining soil fertility and pest control.

What lies in store for biostimulation? With mounting environmental apprehensions, biostimulation is poised to become a standard operation for soil decontamination.

[thatcurlychic]

7 Natural Hair Growth Tips Using Herbs and Oils 

How to Grow Your Hair Naturally Using Herbs and Oils Hair growth is a common concern for many people, especially those with curly or textured hair. There are many products and treatments available to help promote hair growth, but many are not natural, can have long-term detrimental effects on the hair, or contain harsh chemicals.  In this article, we will explore some tips to help promote…

[flwrstqr]

⠀｡♡ ENHYPEN REACTION TO THEIR S/O KISSING THEIR FACE AND CALLING IT SKINCARE

(NOTES) bf!enha x gn!r && reaction, requested 🐰 dani notes: oh my gosh.. this was the cutest request i got ever !!

𝐋𝐄𝐄 𝐇𝐄𝐄𝐒𝐄𝐔𝐍𝐆 (이희승)

you lean in, pressing soft kisses all over heeseung’s face, starting with his forehead and working your way down to his cheeks. “what are you doing, baby?” he asks, a smile tugging at his lips, eyes sparkling with curiosity. you giggle, placing another kiss on his nose. “it’s your new skincare routine, handsome,” you reply teasingly, “100% effective.” heeseung chuckles, wrapping his arms around your waist, pulling you closer. “oh, really? that’s a pretty sweet method. i think i need some more, just to be sure,” he smirks, leaning in for another kiss. you happily oblige, leaving more playful kisses on his face. “my skin’s gonna be glowing after this,” he jokes. “good, you’ll look even more perfect, love.” he blushes slightly, holding you even tighter. "i guess i can’t argue with results like these.”

𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐊 𝐉𝐀𝐘 (박종성)

you gently cup jay’s face, pressing soft kisses all over his cheeks and forehead. “what’s all this, angel?” he asks with a soft laugh, his eyes crinkling in amusement. you grin, leaning in to kiss the tip of his nose. “it’s skincare,” you say playfully, “the best kind, guaranteed to make you even more handsome.” jay chuckles, a blush creeping onto his cheeks as he pulls you closer. “oh, so that’s your secret?” he teases, eyes sparkling. “guess i’ll need this routine every day, huh?” you nod, planting another kiss on his jaw. “exactly, consider it your daily treatment.” he lets out a soft hum, his smile growing wider as he holds your hand. “well, in that case, i’m not complaining. feels like magic already, baby.”

𝐒𝐈𝐌 𝐉𝐀𝐊𝐄 (심재윤)

you can’t help but lean in again, leaving another string of kisses on jake’s cheeks. he scrunches up his nose playfully, giggling, “hey, you missed a spot right here,” he points to his lips with a cheeky grin. you laugh, rolling your eyes but still giving him a quick kiss on the lips. “there, happy now?” you tease, and he beams, pulling you into a hug. “yep, skincare and a little bonus,” he says, his voice muffled against your shoulder. “i’m gonna have the softest skin in the world thanks to you, baby.” you smile into his hair, holding him close. “i should start charging for these treatments,” you joke, and he laughs, the sound warm and bright. “nah, you’ll never get rid of me, love. i’m signing up for the lifetime membership.”

𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐊 𝐒𝐔𝐍𝐆𝐇𝐎𝐎𝐍 (박성훈)

you press soft kisses across sunghoon’s forehead and cheeks, and he blinks, clearly confused. “uh... what are you doing?” he asks, his brows furrowing slightly as you giggle and continue your little routine. “it’s skincare, hoon,” you say matter-of-factly, planting another kiss on his nose. he stares at you, processing for a moment, before finally breaking into a soft smile. “skincare… with kisses?” he repeats, still trying to wrap his head around it. “yup, 100% effective,” you tease, leaving another kiss on his jaw. he lets out a soft laugh, shaking his head in disbelief. “you’re so weird,” he mutters under his breath, but there’s a hint of affection in his voice as he pulls you closer. “but if this is skincare, i guess i could get used to it, babe.” he leans in slightly, a shy grin on his lips. “i mean, for the sake of healthy skin, right?”

𝐊𝐈𝐌 𝐒𝐔𝐍𝐎𝐎 (김선우)

sunoo chuckles softly as you press yet another kiss on his cheek. “baby, that’s enough… ack!” he squeaks as you quickly kiss the tip of his nose, then his forehead, calling it "skincare." he playfully swats at your hands but doesn't move away, his cheeks reddening. "seriously, you're gonna bite off my cheek or something," he laughs, his eyes crinkling as you smother his face with more gentle kisses. “i don’t think this counts as skincare, you know.” despite his protests, he leans into your touch, clearly enjoying it. “okay, okay, last one,” he murmurs, eyes fluttering shut as you land a kiss on his lips. then, with a mischievous glint, he pulls you in for a soft, lingering kiss of his own. "my turn for 'skincare,'" he whispers, giggling.

𝐘𝐀𝐍𝐆 𝐉𝐔𝐍𝐆𝐖𝐎𝐍 (양정원)

jungwon scrunches his nose as you plant a kiss on his cheek, then another on his forehead. “what are you doing?” he asks, amused but confused. “it’s skincare,” you say with a grin, placing yet another kiss on his jawline. he laughs softly, shaking his head. “baby, i don’t think that’s how it works…” but before he can protest further, you’re covering his face with more kisses. “okay, okay—enough!” he giggles, cheeks flushed, but he’s not really pulling away. “you’re so cute, but this isn't skincare.” still, when you stop, he leans in, capturing your lips with his. “let me show you how it’s done,” he murmurs between kisses, pulling you closer. "this is much better," he whispers, smiling against your lips.

𝐍𝐈𝐒𝐇𝐈𝐌𝐔𝐑𝐀 𝐑𝐈𝐊𝐈 (西村力)

riki raises an eyebrow as you kiss his cheek, then his forehead. “what’s this all about?” he asks, a smirk forming on his lips. “it’s skincare,” you say, all serious, planting another kiss on his jaw. he snickers, leaning back. “oh, skincare, huh? well, maybe you should go into business.” he teases, poking your side as you continue to pepper his face with kisses. “but i think you're just using that as an excuse to kiss me,” he adds, grinning wide. “not that i’m complaining,” he says, winking playfully. you roll your eyes and kiss his nose, which makes him burst into a fit of giggles. “okay, okay, baby, that’s enough,” he laughs, but then leans in, his forehead against yours. “actually... i could use a little more 'skincare,'” he says before stealing a quick kiss from you, flashing you that smile.

[reasonsforhope]

"When bloodstream infections set in, fast treatment is crucial — but it can take several days to identify the bacteria responsible. A new, rapid-diagnosis sepsis test could cut down on the wait, reducing testing time from as much as a few days to about 13 hours by cutting out a lengthy blood culturing step, researchers report July 24 [2024] in Nature.

“They are pushing the limits of rapid diagnostics for bloodstream infections,” says Pak Kin Wong, a biomedical engineer at Penn State who was not involved in the research. “They are driving toward a direction that will dramatically improve the clinical management of bloodstream infections and sepsis.”

Sepsis — an immune system overreaction to an infection — is a life-threatening condition that strikes nearly 2 million people per year in the United States, killing more than 250,000 (SN: 5/18/08). The condition can also progress to septic shock, a steep drop in blood pressure that damages the kidneys, lungs, liver and other organs. It can be caused by a broad range of different bacteria, making species identification key for personalized treatment of each patient.

In conventional sepsis testing, the blood collected from the patient must first go through a daylong blood culturing step to grow more bacteria for detection. The sample then goes through a second culture for purification before undergoing testing to find the best treatment. During the two to three days required for testing, patients are placed on broad-spectrum antibiotics — a blunt tool designed to stave off a mystery infection that’s better treated by targeted antibiotics after figuring out the specific bacteria causing the infection.

Nanoengineer Tae Hyun Kim and colleagues found a way around the initial 24-hour blood culture.

The workaround starts by injecting a blood sample with nanoparticles decorated with a peptide designed to bind to a wide range of blood-borne pathogens. Magnets then pull out the nanoparticles, and the bound pathogens come with them. Those bacteria are sent directly to the pure culture. Thanks to this binding and sorting process, the bacteria can grow faster without extraneous components in the sample, like blood cells and the previously given broad-spectrum antibiotics, says Kim, of Seoul National University in South Korea.

Cutting out the initial blood culturing step also relies on a new imaging algorithm, Kim says. To test bacteria’s susceptibility to antibiotics, both are placed in the same environment, and scientists observe if and how the antibiotics stunt the bacteria’s growth or kill them. The team’s image detection algorithm can detect subtler changes than the human eye can. So it can identify the species and antibiotic susceptibility with far fewer bacteria cells than the conventional method, thereby reducing the need for long culture times to produce larger colonies.

Though the new method shows promise, Wong says, any new test carries a risk of false negatives, missing bacteria that are actually present in the bloodstream. That in turn can lead to not treating an active infection, and “undertreatment of bloodstream infection can be fatal,” he says. “While the classical blood culture technique is extremely slow, it is very effective in avoiding false negatives.”

Following their laboratory-based experiments, Kim and colleagues tested their new method clinically, running it in parallel with conventional sepsis testing on 190 hospital patients with suspected infections. The testing obtained a 100 percent match on correct bacterial species identification, the team reports. Though more clinical tests are needed, these accuracy results are encouraging so far, Kim says.

The team is continuing to refine their design in hopes of developing a fully automated sepsis blood test that can quickly produce results, even when hospital laboratories are closed overnight. “We really wanted to commercialize this and really make it happen so that we could make impacts to the patients,” Kim says."

-via Science News, July 24, 2024

[iceunhie]

art of the fan!

premise: wherein jiaoqiu’s fan does half the work and reaps twice the effect.

warnings: gn!reader, 1.4k words, potential jiaoqiu ooc, written before his release. use of petnames and suffixes. please read the terminology guide below to understand their use in the plot, very ‘walk him like a dog’ core, though in this case fox would be more appropriate, haha.

a/n: guess who’s back with a oneshot (⁠ ⁠；⁠∀⁠；⁠) here is my humble offering to the jiaoqiu nation, i did my best

jiaoqiu—for some reason—has made it his life’s mission to perpetually get under your skin.

recently, he has employed shady methods, most particularly instilling almost unfair use of his fan in order to get away with things he normally can't, poking at the strings in your heart like how a stick hits a hornet’s nest.

“yi sheng, is there a purpose for this?” you exclaim, with the foxian man sighing in faux disappointment. the sarcastic way of addressing his title does make his face spasm—but unfortunately for you, today, it seems it does little to dampen his mischief.

you are in the humiliating position of being in the sly man’s lap; aggrieved that your current predicament warrants unfair treatment that borders on harassment (an exaggeration, jiaoqiu has never been improper to that extent).

not to mention, his fan is aimed at your chin, making you look up at him while he applies ointment to a rather nasty bruise around your lip, with the gall to hum as he does so.

“ah, ah. don't move.” he holds the feathered fan under your chin, eyes ever closed while a placid smile graces his face, retaining his signature cunning. jiaoqiu has lost his mind. you keep to yourself, ignoring the heat in your cheeks that had made an appearance since earlier—because why else would he do this? (and why in the name of aeons would you let him? something must be wrong with your brain today.) “if you do not let me do this, that unsightly bruise might fester, you know.”

“you’re too close.”

“well, you were too far.”

“i am sitting on your lap, yi sheng. how close do you want us to be?” you roll your eyes, earning jiaoqiu a poke at your face, followed by his hand squishing at the fat on your cheeks. “hey, lwet goh of me…”

“still with the formalities... surely now you can address me by my name, can you?” jiaoqiu coaxes, like saying it might wash away all the fatigue in the world, because every inch of his being, from the tips of his ears to the veins in his heart and the wisps of his soul, his yearning and pining echoes and resounds in the cavity of his chest that holds only you, you, you.

what, jiaoqiu wonders, would it take for him to be the sole beholder of your brilliance? his hands holding yours, gripping faithfully and unfalteringly, your fates bound by knots; crimson in nature, entwined forevermore? his eyes soften because of course they do—for you mold him into a being devoted to commemorating your existence into his flesh, your voice settling in the marrow of his bones.

you falter, your heartbeat loud. jiaoqiu notices. of course he does. “yi sheng—”

“jiaoqiu.”

“yi—”

“qiu-er.”

“....” he can hear your heart thundering in your chest—thump, thump—and it has never occurred to him to praise his foxian senses until now. his smile widens, a fang poking out with the white of his teeth. “i'm waiting, baobei.” your face glows with warmth, and jiaoqiu fights the urge to swallow you up whole right then and there.

(he resists it often when it comes to you.)

“you’re so stubborn!” you say after much deliberation, rejection flat and heavy. jiaoqiu deflates, just a bit, and petulantly rubs ointment on the other bruises littering your face. (his ears show his displeasure, drooping down, comically flat against his head.)

“hmph. and you’re too stingy.”

“all the more reason not to, then!”

still not enough, huh? jiaoqiu wonders if he'll ever get you to crack; if you'll ever mirror the expression of his adoration—swishing tail and perked up ears aside. still, his touch is gentle, like the embers of a fire hugging you for warmth, a blazing sensation in which all the greed in the world falls short compared to his need to touch you, to perceive you. “will i ever hear my name on your lips? you seem to have no issue addressing others so casually.”

“and who exactly are these others?” you raise a brow at him. jiaoqiu shrugs, nonchalant. as though it didn't bother him (he's seething).

you note that he speaks with contempt, bitterness filtering his soft-spoken words. his tail wags rapidly. pfft, so… so childish! (and a little cute, but you don't say it for obvious reasons.)

“well, for starters, the madam general, the dozing general, yunli, the herbalists near the red fox theater, the stair sweepers....”

“wait, wait, that's too many! and the stair sweepers, really?!”

“i’ll avoid answering further questions.”

“you look like you've swallowed vinegar, laoshi.” you croon, biting where you can at the weakened fox you've made, defiantly lowering your chin still held captive by jiaoqiu’s fan. “besides, i merely do it to cut all at one stroke. after all, it is you, yi sheng—” you relish in jiaoqiu’s expression when you get eerily close, noses almost touching, “that insisted i ought to call you by that title, did you not? who knew you were so easy to displease.”

his face constricts, and his hands lower, one hand gripping firm at your waist, and jiaoqiu reels away from you, hiding his face behind his fan as his cheeks tint themselves scarlet. his pride would not allow him to refute, and you knew that very well. “that...”

because you know him. know his ticks, his tells—jiaoqiu does not know if that is love. but his willingness to drop his guard, to let you slip by his foxy exterior—to allow you to burrow and fuse yourself into the tapestry of his being, that of which the fibers of his soul accept and wholeheartedly make room for you; constricting his breath, perceiving you. (he doesn't know if you're in love with him yet, but he is. maybe he always will be.)

your lips quirk up instead, the apples of your cheeks forming while smile lines grace your features, that of which he cannot look away from, cannot close his eyes from; for what use is closing one’s eyes when his sight was granted to him to behold you?

jiaoqiu’s saving grace is that you were kinder for your own good. if he could keep that kindness to himself, then….

“as expected, it's so weird when you're silent,” you laugh, and jiaoqiu’s stare rushes to behold you, the echo of your joy forming his heart anew. “jiaoqiu. there, you petulant fox. happy now?”

and the way he looks at you—his pupils expanding, eyes wide, jiaoqiu loves. the entire universe could crumble and turn to ashes this instant, and he would not look away.

“...i’m not.” you look at him with playful scorn. really, after all this trouble, your eyes seem to say. he chuckles dryly, forcing himself to laugh, because jiaoqiu wants to keep this euphoria and let it sink into his ears, his lungs and his brain. he wants to bottle the sound of your voice forming his name and setting his body ablaze like golden starlight in a place no one can hear but him.

“not what?” facing you, holding you, he can't even begin to breathe. jiaoqiu thinks this might be love, sprouting from his eyes and filling the corners of his veins, circulating fully, wholly, and utterly.

“i’m not happy at all.” he speaks your name like the growing embers of a wildfire, burning his throat and letting jiaoqiu dare to perceive you. “it’s lacking. it will always be lacking.”

and because you were you, you know exactly where to fan the flames. “ever the cunning one, aren't you, qiu-er?”

jiaoqiu thinks it's time you had enough of your fun. again, he's never had reason to praise his senses—but when he hears the deafening beats that increase as he looks at you even more—he thinks that maybe being a foxian is a decision fate was wise in undertaking.

he dips his head low, and before you can question why his fan covered your faces, a soft sensation floods your senses, warming you to the core when you feel the plush of his lips on yours. you feel his smile against your mouth, and the teasing bite down your lower lip makes your eyes turn to saucers.

this sly fox…!

pulling away, jiaoqiu hides his face behind his fan again, almost gloating when he takes in your aghast expression. “well, it's not so lacking anymore, i suppose.”

you glare. “that ointment of yours is useless now that you've kissed it away, you know.”

jiaoqiu brings the hand by your side to his lips, kissing your knuckles, devoting himself to every atom that comprises you, every cell that unravels and ties itself to create you; and he’ll adore you, chasing and basking in the warm daylight you bestow him.

“i can always kiss it better, anyway.” he ruffles your hair, the smile in his eyes mischievous and utterly unfair, because it's sincere, and blinding ....and jiaoqiu is already uncaring of the rapid wag of his tail. “didn’t you say it yourself? i am cunning, after all.”

BONUS: how to tame a foxian in one go!

“baobei, you certainly know how to leave someone breathless.”

“don’t follow me.”

“you’re not denying it though.”

“qiu’er, you’ll be demoted back to yi sheng.”

“huh?! thats cruel! wait, i said i’m sorry—!”

— terminology guide.

· [ 事半功倍 / half the work, twice the effect ] — (an idiom) the right approach leads to the desired/better results; jiaoqiu wanted reader to call him by his name affectionately, and the right ‘approach’ refers to making use of both the fan and the opportunity to kiss reader (which he got and more with minimal effort)

· [ 一刀切 / to cut all at one stroke ] — (idiom) one solution or ‘one size fits all’, reference to how reader doesn't want to refer to jiaoqiu as his name nor do they want to be mistaken to be in a relationship with him (playfully), so they refer to him as yi sheng ( 医生 ) so people don't get confused and see how jiaoqiu absolutely hates it (menace)

other: bao bei ‹ 宝贝 | baby/babe › , -er ‹ friendly and affectionate suffix often used in a teasing way › , yi sheng ‹ 医生 | doctor › laoshi ‹ 老师/老師 | teacher, used often in a certain part of china. used formally for instructors and teachers* ›

*as for why reader refers to jiaoqiu as laoshi aka teacher, jiaoqiu is a counselor (based on given canon information) and they use it to rile him up (since they use it sarcastically—because jiaoqiu was basically ordering them/instructing them to stay still while treating them ^^; hope this makes sense !

tidbit note: when reader says ‘consumed vinegar’ it is a funny way to show that he's jealous, because vinegar is sour (just like jiaoqiu's mood!)

note: hello! i apologize for being so late and so inconsistent with my posts, life has been busy lately with my job. as recompense, have a oneshot… lol. also, this fic wouldn't have happened without the lovely consultation of my friend and mootie @lowkeyren who helped me with making sure i was using the appropriate terms of affectionate address for reader and jiaoqiu, haha. can you tell i loved playing around with his character? even though he isn't out yet TT personally, i think i quite like the dynamic between reader and jiaoqiu; although this may be ooc in some point in time. he just gives off the vibe of a teasing smug bastard… who is a pathetic mess for his lover. or is it just me?? well, who knows…

@ ICEUNHIE: do not plagiarize, repost or steal my work.

[psychoticallytrans]

There's this idea, fairly common in society, that mental illness is for teens and up. Children are happy little creatures, generally, right? Sometimes they're abused and the trauma can make them mentally ill, but that's not common.

There are two fundamental problems with this attitude. One, it's incorrect to assume that trauma is the only reason a young kid can be mentally ill. Two, trauma is more common than people think. I'll be covering the first problem in this post through the lens of my particular experience.

Where I live, you can be diagnosed with bipolar disorder at 18 years old. You cannot be diagnosed with bipolar disorder as a minor. This poses a problem because my age of onset was in first grade, roughly six years old. Because of the fact that I was very young and new to the world, this was also the age of my first suicide attempt. Thinking I wouldn't be able to pass a spelling test genuinely felt like something worth trying to die over. So, I ate some hemlock, since I'd read about Socrates being killed with it. Luckily, I ate western hemlock, an unrelated species, and just felt kind of sick.

I'm not recounting that for fun or pity. I'm recounting it because children with mental illness are in genuine danger because they have little to no experience with managing their emotions, have little to no concept of the idea that their life can change and improve, and are dismissed by adults. I told a teacher that the test made me want to die, though not that I'd attempted to, and it was brushed off as little kid hyperbole. If I had used a method that was effective rather than one I thought would be, I would have been dead at six years old.

I would not receive medication that worked even a bit for another two years. I would not receive treatment for bipolar disorder specifically for ten years, and that required my PCP fudging the reason for the medication because she was afraid I would die if she didn't, and diagnosis was still two years off at minimum. I received a formal diagnosis at age 19, thirteen years after onset.

But surely that's uncommon, right? This story is a huge edge case, right? I actually have no idea, because age of onset and age of diagnosis are massively conflated for most disabilities. Policies like the one in my area that restricted bipolar diagnoses by age can artificially raise the age of "onset", in my case by thirteen years. The general idea that children are somehow immune to mental illness can also delay diagnosis by several years, perpetuating the idea that young children can't be mentally ill. The data on when people start experiencing mental illness is inherently skewed upwards, and I frankly don't have a good estimate on how bad that skew is. If anyone does have that data, please chime in.

Listen to children. If they're saying they're sad all the time, that they don't care about anything, that they don't see a future for themselves, those are signs of depressive symptoms. If they say that tests make them feel sick, that they can't do anything because they're scared, that they can't breathe and freeze up, those are signs of anxious symptoms. Many children talk about imaginary things, and that's just fine, but slip in a question or two about them to make sure that the kid is just playing, and not experiencing psychosis.

Children are new to the world and vulnerable, and they don't know what's normal and what isn't. They need people who are more experienced watching out for problems they might be having, and listening when they talk about having problems. If you can, try to be the person who perceives them, and tells them that things can be better.

[twistsandturbans]

7 Natural Hair Growth Tips Using Herbs and Oils 

How to Grow Your Hair Naturally Using Herbs and Oils Hair growth is a common concern for many people, especially those with curly or textured hair. There are many products and treatments available to help promote hair growth, but many are not natural, can have long-term detrimental effects on the hair, or contain harsh chemicals.  In this article, we will explore some tips to help promote…

[thefaestolemyname]

Dang they bringin' capitalism right down to the cellular level. These T-cells need to unionize, fight for their right for a lunch break!

Got it from here

[angelicgirlmj]

simple skincare routine (+ product recommendations based of skin types)

hi angels! skincare has been a big passion of mine since i was around twelve and began to develop some hormonal skincare issues. these really made me insecure and i still struggle with my skin. but being consistent and developing my routine, working out my skin type, eating with my skin as a focus and trial and error has got me to a place where im much much happier with my skin - and id love to share some tips and products with you!! remember your skin is exposed to so much and such a delicate part of your body, treat it with the love and respect it deserves. ˚₊‧꒰ა ♡ ໒꒱ ‧₊˚

firstly: figuring out your skin type

im not exaggerating when i say the basis of a good skincare routine is knowing your skin type. it makes it easier to buy products, work out what your skin needs and how to achieve the look you want.

dermatologists agree that there are four skin types:

oily (skin produces more oils and sebum).

dry (produces less oils and sebum).

normal (produces a normal amount of oils and sebum).

combination (areas of skin which are dry and areas that are sebum heavy/oily).

so…

how do you work out your skin type?

well there are two easy at home methods!

watch and wait (requires cleanser): wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat dry. wait for half an hour or so and observe your skin. shiny all over = oily. tight and perhaps flaky = dry. shine in t zone = likely combination. hydrated and comfortable but not too oily = normal.

blotting sheet method (requires blotting sheets and cleanser): wash face with gentle cleanser, pat dry and waist for half an hour or so. press blotting sheets to chin, cheeks, forehead etc and examine the oil left on the sheets. lots of oil = oily. almost no oil/no oil = dry. oil mostly in t zone = combination. minimal all over face = normal.

˚₊‧꒰ა ♡ ໒꒱ ‧₊˚

secondly: building a routine

now youve worked out what skin type you have it’s time to build a routine! i personally have combination skin that verges more on the dry side.

my am and pm skincare routines look like this…

am: cleanser, ice face, oil face and do gentle gua sha routine, moisturiser and spf. applying facial sanitising spray regularly throughout the day.

pm: double cleanse, ice face (only if feeling puffy/sore), moisturiser, 1 - 2 spot treatments and sanitise face.

am products:

cerave hydrating cleanser.

corsx moisturiser (great for dry and spot prone skin, little goes along way).

la roche posay spf 50+.

jojoba face oil.

vital baby face spray.

pm products:

la roche posay effclar duo.

avene hydrance aqua cream.

two over the counter spot treatments.

you may need to cleanse your face more/less, use less moisturiser etc. developing your skin care routine is through trial and error, just be observant of your skin and take notes on any effects or changes a product seems to have.

˚₊‧꒰ა ♡ ໒꒱ ‧₊˚

thirdly: product recommendations

here’s a list of some product recommendations! some i have personally tried (they will be starred), others are popular ones based of your skin type loved by many.

cleansers

dry: cerave hydrating cleanser ⟡

oily: la roche posay effclar duo cleanser ⟡

combination: neutrogena skin balancing purifying gel cleanser

normal: paulas choice perfectly balanced foaming cleanser.

toner

dry: laneige cream skin toner

oily: body shop tea tree toner ⟡

combination: innisfree green tea toner

normal: la roche posay toner

moisturisers

dry: corsx moisturiser ⟡

oily: glow watermelon pink juice moisturiser

combination: byoma moisturising gel cream

normal: la roche posay cicaplast baume B5+ ⟡

spf

la roche posay spf 50+

black girl sunscreen

supergoop unseen sunscreen

˚₊‧꒰ა ♡ ໒꒱ ‧₊˚

thank you for reading angels! feel free to give any skincare product recommendations or reviews. im planning on doing an in-depth personal skincare routine post soon. hopefully you enjoyed!!

love, m.