The Ordinary brand was one of my top products to try last year as I had read positive reviews. Due to my dark spots, I decided to try The Ordinary lactic acid.
What Is Lactic Acid?
The term lactic acid appears in a variety of contexts. It is commonly associated with strenuous exercise since it builds up in your muscles. It is also found in certain foods like beets, milk, etc.
As well as treating fine lines and wrinkles and discoloration of the skin (age spots, hyperpigmentation), lactic acid can help reduce pores and brighten the skin.
Lactic acid is gentle and effective on the skin. Among those with sensitive skin, it is generally tolerable, which is not the same for all AHAs (glycolic acid, for example).
In addition to keeping pores clear, the exfoliation from lactic acid removes dead skin cells and excess oil, preventing pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads from forming thus reducing acne.
NB-
A dermatologist should be consulted before using lactic acid if you have skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea.
It’s especially wise to avoid combining lactic acid with products containing retinol.
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Packaging
The Ordinary Lactic acid comes in a 30ml transparent bottle with a dropper, like most Ordinary products. It has a gel-like consistency and unique scent which isn’t overpowering but worth mentioning.
Always confirm that it is original by buying from confirmed online stores. Apparently, there is a lot of fakes out there. My favorite stores are @theskincareco_ and @tojuwa on Instagram.
The Ordinary Lactic acid serum also comes in 2 variants- The 5% and 10% strengths. If you’re a newbie and acids aren’t already part of your usual routine or perhaps your skin is particularly sensitive, start with the 5% version, and with time, you can incorporate the 10%.
My Experience
I applied twice in the first week at night. I also alternated the days I applied with my salicylic acid cleanser. Afterward, I progressed to 3-4 times a week and the results were phenomenal.
My mum kept remarking on how my face skin tone evened out. it was also not harsh on my skin as I didn’t experience redness or tingling.
Guys, time flies for real! How is it one year already?
It’s already been a year since this little blog of mine came into being, and I can’t tell you how happy I am to be celebrating a blog-versary!.
On March 5th, 2021, I shared with my Instagram and WhatsApp community that, I had just launched adashofiruoma into the world with my first post.
As scary as it was to share this side of me with more people and online at that, it has been nothing short of interesting. I remember going through the options for a name in Dec 2020 and feeling so clueless despite knowing I wanted to share something with more people. It just feels good to watch this grow.
Although this has been the busiest year of my medical school life, I’m glad that I can keep showing up and some of you have been the best cheerleaders!
It’s been one heck of a year meeting new people, mostly online, evolving in terms of growth, and getting encouraging comments and responses to my newsletter. Do subscribe for blog updates and free monthly resources.
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Thank you for reading and sharing my posts. I look forward to more years of blogging by God’s grace and I hope you stick with me.
Have you ever wondered what a serum means? The first time I heard about a serum was from a giveaway I won in 2019. I can’t forget my excitement even though I was clueless about my skin type or what I needed help with. It was a hyaluronic acid from Dr. Rashel and it changed the game for me.
This post is for the beginner (in fact anyone) who wants to learn more about face serums and how to make the best of them. It’s a long read, so you would find the table of contents helpful.
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What Is a Serum?
Serums are clear, gel-based, or liquid, and they tend to be less thick than a moisturizer.
According to Dr. Tsippora Shainhouse FAAD, board-certified dermatologist at SkinSafe Dermatology and Skin Care, “Serums are thin-viscosity topical products that contain concentrated amounts of active ingredients.”
Another board-certified dermatologist and director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital’s department of dermatology, Dr. Joshua Zeichner, describes face serums as skin-care products designed to deliver high concentrations of specific active ingredients to the skin.
A face serum usually comes after cleansing, but before moisturizing with the intent of delivering powerful ingredients directly into the skin. A serum can do so because it is made up of smaller molecules that can penetrate deeply into the skin. This makes face serums an effective tool for targeting specific skincare concerns, like hyperpigmentation or wrinkles.
Benefits of Face Serums
A serum can have numerous benefits especially if you use a face serum that’s well suited to the type of issue you want to address.
Absorbs quickly into your skin: Face serums are light weight skin care formulations and have thinner viscosity (i.e not thick). This allows the serum to be absorbed more easily into your skin.
Improves the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines: Some face serums contain ingredients like retinol that may help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Protects your skin from free radicals: Skincare shouldn’t be only about treating a concern, but preventing future damage. Serums with ingredients like Vitamins C, E, green tea, etc help prevent oxidative damage from ultraviolet (UV) rays and pollution, which in turn lead to premature skin aging and wrinkles.
Potential to provide more visible results: Since serums contain higher concentration of active ingredients, they usually provide more visible results, compared with other types of skin products.
Feels light on your skin: Low viscosity and lightweight thus face serums can absorb quickly into your skin.
What are the types of serums?
If you’re still reading, I’m proud of you (wink) so let’s get into the types of serums we have. Knowing what type is crucial to decide which will best serve you at a particular phase in your skincare routine. There are different face serums with unique purposes and ingredients.
Some face serums help to brighten your face or boost hydration while others focus on fighting the signs of aging.
When it comes to choosing a skin serum, it’s important to recognize there are different types of serums, as well as specific ingredients to look for based on your goals.
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In general, face serums fall into the following categories:
Anti-aging serums
Purpose– Dr. Debra Jaliman, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City says that the pur[pose of anti-aging serums is to slow down the aging process. They do this by delivering essential anti-aging ingredients to effectively combat fine lines and wrinkles.
Skin type– Anti-aging serums are beneficial for all skin types and you can start using them as early as your 20s.
Ingredients to look out for – Retinol, caffeine, green tea, proteoglycans, and hyaluronic acid (generally labeled as sodium hyaluronate).
When it comes to choosing a skin serum, it’s important to recognize there are different types of serums, as well as specific ingredients to look for based on your goals.
Skin-brightening serums
Purpose– To target skin issues like hyperpigmentation, enlarged pores, and fine lines.
Skin types– Those looking to even out nix dark spots or even out skin tone. If you want to smooth out skin and minimize pores, then skin resurfacing and exfoliating serums work well.
Ingredients to look for – Phytic acid, vitamin C, arbutin, kojic acid, azelaic acid, L-ascorbic acid, and glycolic acid.
Good Molecules Doscoloration Serum on Urban Skin Nigeria.
Hydrating serums
Purpose– These face serums help infuse extra moisture into the skin. This would help make skin look fresh, plump, and younger.
Skin type– Those with dry skin are ideal candidates for a hydrating serum. Oddly enough, oily skin types (and even acne-prone skin) can also benefit from some targeted hydration.
Ingredients to look out for – Hyaluronic acid and peptides
Purpose-“Antioxidant serums help protect your skin from the free radicals you’re exposed to on a daily basis. They also aid in the prevention of fine lines and other visible signs of aging, and can heal and repair skin,” Jaliman said. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage your cells and cause premature aging.
Skin type– Ideal for or all skin types since we’re exposed to free radicals on a regular basis.
NB- Look at the ingredients to make sure a face serum doesn’t include any potentially irritating ingredients for your skin type first. Some things that can cause irritaion in some people include: Fragrances, dyes, sulfates or even citrus or mint .
Ingredients to look out for – Vitamins A, C and E, resveratrol, niacinamide, melatonin and L-Ascorbic acid.
Front view of lavender in oil and lavender flowers on a white towel on marble background.Photo from Unsplash
Introduction
As I stared at the bottle of shea oil in my locker, I toyed with the idea of finally trying oil cleansing for makeup.
“What if I break out?“
“Are those beauty influencers lying?”
I pumped some of the oil on my palms and applied it to my face. I was shocked! My makeup fell through like a defenseless army.
Have you ever heard of oil cleansing? I know it’s scary to think of applying oil to your face especially if your skin type is oily, but just give me a few moments to explain, and who knows, you may be a convert like I am now.
What Is Oil Cleansing?
Oil cleansing is the method of using oil to clean the face. This method originated from Asia in the 14th century as the women used oils to remove their traditional white makeup before following with their cleansers.
To oil cleanse is simply a way of deep cleansing your skin without stripping it of all of the essential moisture that it needs. To be fair, oil cleansing sounds scary but it is actually perfect for removing dirt, grime, makeup, and even sunscreen. The oil binds to all of those substances and makes them easier to remove.
My favorite thing about oil cleansing is that it’s so simple, anyone can do it. But before you try it, let’s address some concerns you may have.
Is it good for your skin type?
It is important to note that not every oil is for everyone. From my research, oil cleansing can be used by any skin type but you want to take note of caveats. There are different oils that are suited to the various skin types so trying the right one for you is key to getting good results.
If you’re oily and acne prone like me, some oil recommendations are; Grapeseed oil, pumpkin seed oil, jojoba oil or sunflower oil. The goal is to reduce sebum production.
If you’re dry skin ; Avocado, extra virgin olive oil, almond oil. The goal is to use moisturizing oils to promote hydration.
For sensitive skin, some oil recommendations are; rosehip oil or jojoba oil. The goal is to not cause further drying so opt for oils that are not stripping.
Ultimately you have to know your skin type. Check this post to help you figure it out.
Ps- I’ve used shea butter oil twice with no adverse effect so far. Some sources advise to avoid coconut oil as it’s very comodogenic (clogs the pore).
What’s The Process?
Now you’re ready so let’s get into the fun part!
Apply a tiny amount of oil in the palm of your hands and massage into your skin for a minute or two. DO NOT WET your face.
Remove your eye makeup last by massaging gently.
Rinse off with water and follow with your cleanser.
Clean with a paper towel or face towel or air dry.
Continue your skin care routine.
Benefits of oil cleansing
Oil cleansing is definitely worth your time and here are some reasons why:
It doesn’t take long.
It effectively removes makeup without harsh chemicals.
The massaging process helps with congested pores and increases circulation and lymph flow which in turn makes the skin look healthy.
Bonus content
If you’re wondering what products to use, check out Simple kind To skin hydrating oil or the R&R Luxury Baobab oil.
For more information on oil cleansing and how to incorporate it into your skincare routine, check Hyram’s video below.
Video Credit- Hyram’s guide to Oil cleansing and its benefits. I don’t own any rights to this video.
Hope you learned a thing or two about oil cleansing and you’re willing to give it a try.
Have you tried it before? Let me know in the comments.
Does building your daily skin care routine seem intimidating? With multiple steps and products in the market, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, but the good news is you don’t have to!
I started out with some trials and errors. From reading anything I could find on the internet to watching skincare routine videos.
Now I’m excited to share the simple steps I’ve discovered and also tried myself!
One thing I have learned is that a daily skincare routine can be simple and effective. Yes, even 5 minutes is enough to do the job.
If you have a routine or you want to simplify yours, keep reading to take it all in.
NB- I included some recommended products based on what I have used. Except for the ones with * which I have read good reviews on but have not personally used.
Before we figure out your daily skincare routine, I always recommend monitoring your habits. The best way to start with a good skincare routine is in your lifestyle. Your lifestyle is a collection of simple habits plus consistency.
What habits do you need to have in order to ensure you take care of yourself from the inside out?
Drink more water.
That may sound cliché, but you’re doing your skin a whole lot good from the inside out.
“A lack of water means less radiance and more sag,” says Dr. Mona Gohara, a dermatologist in Connecticut.
Sleep more
It’s hard to get 8 hours of sleep daily, but when you can go for it. Your body boosts blood flow to the skin while you sleep. This means fewer wrinkles and dark under the eyes.
Don’t touch your face
I’m guilty of this so I can understand the struggle. Touching your face encourages the spread of oil, dirt, and bacteria. This leads to acne and just takes you steps back in your routine.
Have a good diet
A balanced diet is important, but sometimes life happens. In spite of that, there are ways to give your body good nutrients. I recommend adding greens to your diet, eating fruits (or taking supplements if you don’t eat fruits daily), and reducing your intake of soda.
Now that you have some tips for a good lifestyle, let’s get started.
Steps To Build Your Daily Skin care routine
Step 1- Cleanse
This is the first step and it is non-negotiable. Think of your face as a slate. You’ve been out all day and you need to clean off the grime before you prepare your skin for quick absorption. Choose a gentle and effective cleanser.
I would recommend a cleanser that is moisturizing and doesn’t strip your face of its essentials. In a minute you’re done with this step.
The next step is to tone. I reviewed one of my favorite toners at length here. A toner basically helps to balance the pH of your face after cleansing. Toners are essential products to prime your face so that the other products are well absorbed. Toners are also an avenue to add some essential ingredients to your routine. In less than a minute you’re done with this step.
The next step in your regimen is to apply a serum. A serum, according to NuGlow, is a water-based product that is full of active ingredients such as Vitamin C, Lactic acid, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic acid, amongst others, that address specific skincare concerns. These concerns could be breakouts, anti-aging, etc.
The trick is to not just buy any serum, but buy it for a reason. I dealt with hyperpigmentation and the Ordinary Lactic acid serum was an answered prayer! Hyaluronic acid is another ingredient gotten in serums and is pretty good for those with dry skin. This step is just one-minute and you only need a few drops to rejuvenate your skin.
Ps- Sign up for the ADI newsletter where I share more tips on beauty and lifestyle!
Step 4- Moisturize
This is my favorite step in a daily skin care routine. Especially for those who are oily and acne-prone. Don’t skip moisturizer. You need something to seal in all that goodness you’ve applied to your face (and neck). Plump moisturized skin helps keep dirt, sweat, and makeup out leading to fewer breakouts.” A pro tip from Nuglow is to always apply your moisturizer last to lock in the active ingredients applied earlier.
Nowadays, some moisturizers come with Spf for sun protection so that is a win-win situation.
Last but definitely not least in your simple daily skincare routine is applying sunscreen. Sunscreens help protect your skin against the sun’s harsh rays. According to Ikkai beauty;
“Use a Broad Spectrum sunscreen. Choose something that ranges above SPF 30+ and should have at least PA +++ (‘+’ measure its efficacy).”
Also, use the two-finger rule to apply it all over your face, neck, and ears as well.
Sunscreens are expensive especially in this part of the world but don’t be discouraged. There are some good options to try. Choose one that is suitable for your skin type.
I currently use the Gavia because it’s bigger and more affordable for its size. It’s not my favorite, but it gets the work done. My biggest issue is it makes me sweat a lot, but I enjoyed using it during the Harmattan season.
When I think of skincare, I think of affordability. Something you can repurchase when it’s exhausted.
Conclusion
In just 5 minutes, you can effectively keep at a daily skincare routine and get your skin goals with consistency. Remember, great skin care is not a sprint, but a marathon and you don’t need the most expensive products.
What products have you used? Do you have a daily skin care routine? Share with me.
This month is skin cancer awareness month and there isn’t a better way to remind us of the importance of sunscreen. Sun Protection Factor (SPF) describes how much UV radiation is needed to produce sunburn on sunscreen-protected skin compared to the amount of radiation required to produce the same effect on unprotected skin.
Simply put (because it gets confusing for me sometimes), if it takes 5 minutes for your skin to burn without sunscreen, if you use an SPF 50, it will take 50*5= 250 minutes before it burns. Keep in mind you need to apply the right way and with the right amount. I know, the sunscreen rules seem a lot, but you would get the hang of it by starting out.
Ironically, most of them are pretty pricey so finding an affordable sunscreen that ticks most boxes is a steal.
This led me to do a mini research on some of the unpopular names in the market some of which are affordable. I’m talking about #2000-#5500 and very sizeable. I’ve used about 4 of them so far and I’m excited to share what I think so you can save your money on and what’s worth trying.
Benefits of sunscreen
Sunscreen, as a dermatologist succinctly put it, helps prevent the ABC:
Aging,
Burns, and
Cancer.
SPFs do so by preventing the absorption of UVA (Ultra Violet Aging) and UVB (Ultra Violet Burn) rays thus protecting your skin from harmful changes that cause irritation and even worse, cancer.
That’s why it’s important to incorporate sunscreen into your routine.
I searched for this sunscreen on Beyonce’s internet to find reviews before getting it. While I wanted to add to the “body of knowledge” of affordable sunscreens reviews, I was very skeptical about buying it and feeling disappointed. I ended up finding just one review after I already bought it (oops!).
Appearance
The Dr. Sun sunblock comes in a blue and yellow 50g tube. The pack is quite simple and it has Spf 50 and broad-spectrum protection boldly written on it, which are quite good factors to tick off in your sunscreen. The tube also has a nozzle for easy application.
I don’t like that the writings are not quite distinct and you have to strain to read them, but overall a decent packaging.
Pro tip
Any time you’re about to buy a physical sunscreen, check if it has Zinc Oxide or if it contains Titanium Dioxide. They serve as broad-spectrum ultraviolet filters and are very safe to use. This sunscreen had titanium dioxide as one of the ingredients.
My Experience
I love the texture of this sunscreen. It is white-colored with a creamy consistency, and I actually enjoyed rubbing it on my face. Oddly, it smells like talc or powder and I’m not sure if that is something I fancy as it gave me calamine lotion vibes.
On the first day, I applied it, I almost shed tears because it left a terrible white cast on my face. What makes this heartbreak even worse is that it doesn’t make me sweat compared to GAVIA sunblock. I also noticed that the white cast faded to a bearable extent 30 minutes after application.
Immediately after applying the sunscreen
Pros
Very affordable- I got it at a Supermarkt (GLOBUS) for #1650 but the price could vary depending on the location.
Creamy texture and doesn’t feel heavy on oily skin.
Portable packaging to carry around.
Broad-spectrum and SPF 50.
The white cast fades after about 30 minutes of application, so good for days you’re not in a hurry or if you need to stay indoors (yes, you need sunscreen indoors or on a rainy day, beauty).
Cons
White cast that takes long to blend in.
Definitely can’t be used if one is in a hurry.
Verdict
I rate this product a 7/10 because of its texture and how it didn’t leave my face oily or cause me to sweat. The white cast is not the worst I’ve had with some mineral sunscreens, but it makes it a less enjoyable option.
Definitely would not repurchase as I don’t want to battle with a white cast.
Which sunscreen have you used?
Is there anyone you’ll like to see my review on? Please leave a comment for your girl and see you next time!
Granted, I really looked forward to the end of the year because I want this phase to be done with. Still, it doesn’t change the fact that I barely went through the craziness of 2020 before catching my breath in 2021, and now 2022 is lurking around.
Speaking of phases, my current phase is being a student and the constant wrestling with managing it all. I think I understand why people write about their current situations. It’s literally what you’re experiencing and it eases the burden.
This morning, it struck me how I’ll be having fewer holidays, thanks to being almost done with the final year of school. As much as that sucks, I’m reminded that I have to make time for what matters.
All that to say, I want to take you through some of the highlights of my 2021. Hopefully, it makes you smile and inspires you to look back at yours too!
In January, I visited some family friends in my hometown, enjoyed my mum’s reaction to her birthday gift from @luxeandpearl. My skin was popping too. That may appear trivial, but coming from where I started, that was a huge win! I also got my first social media management client from a referral and it was an interesting experience.
Being home and enjoying street photography were my highlights of February. I remember bugging my siblings to take pictures and videos for my content while getting confused stares from people on the road. It was always hilarious.
In March, my baby was launched! By baby, I mean the blog. It has been a gift and I’m glad I get to share my life with you via this channel. I finally went paintballing with my friends and you can read more about that experience here.
It was also in March that I started battling with miliaria. Think of it as glorified heat rashes that look like acne. This was after enjoying the period of glowing skin. It messed with my mind and I felt so discouraged. That didn’t dampen my joy for too long anyway, as I went on to perfect my DIY body butter and lip balm skills. They’re the little joys.
Paintballing with the winning team.Some of my friends after an exam.Girls date with my sisters.
April went in a blur. My face got worse and I was thankful that I had to be home more because having to explain why my face looked like that was a chore. I quit my social media management job due to school, and finally got extra ear piercings.
In May, I presented my undergraduate public health research on an international scale. That was a dream come true, even though I was bummed that the physical event couldn’t hold due to COVID-19. It was also in this month that I dyed my hair temporarily (check how here).
My DIY body butter and lip balm.
The final year started in June and I broke the heart of someone so dear to me. It was a hard month because I had to face some deep-seated issues I had with communication, and being more accountable.
Then came July- my birth month. I also got to try press-on nails for the first time. Shop here for a discount. Another first was having the honor of being the bridesmaid for my friends. It was also my first Yoruba wedding and that experience was beautiful. My atm cards were stolen and I lost some money. Somehow, God provided more than I could have asked for.
Bridesmaid duty!
August had me disorganized with the first hostel movement I experienced and the hassle of doing almost everything by ourselves. Glad my roomie and I survived that phase. It was also the month I got a renewed relationship with bae! By the end of the month, I lost my sweet grandpa and grappled with grief.
In September, My sisters and I finally ticked “sisters’ date” off our list after getting the best news about school admission. I look back at God’s faithfulness and it blows my mind. I also got to speak about conducting interviews as an orator with Pivot Africa.
Bae!
My final year class hosts a series of events to mark our last year in college and we started with a beach outing in October. It was an amazing experience and I shared that here. I also tried contact lenses for the first time and while I suck at putting them on, I absolutely loved them! Surgery posting seemed to get worse this month and I was barely pulling my weight.
In November, I sent my first brand pitch after reading tons of articles and I got a “Yes”! It was such a sweet moment. Then school started rationing power supply and juggling creating content and the workload of the school became a nightmare. There were nights this month where I was mentally and emotionally exhausted.
R&R luxury skincare brand.
Usually, December is my second favorite month (duh! July is number 1). This year was different as looking forward to Christmas was preparing to face exams. I took fewer pictures and videos, and every day was filled with the ever-growing pile of notes and stuff to read. The last week of December would be my highlight because I got to spend time with family, eat, and sleep better.
This is the first year that I’m in December and I don’t have any goals written out by the 31st of December. The best part is the Iruoma of before would have been panicking as if my life depended on what I wrote more than it did on God’s grace. All I want this year is to continue growing and being mindful of it. Sometimes, I forget that growth isn’t only in the big things people see, but also in those areas that you know needed some work.
You don’t know how much you’ve grown till you look back. Look back and reflect.
Happy new year in advance, guys! Do you have any highlights from 2021? Please share them with me!
How often do you pick your face? Or have you ever planned to go for an interview or event and a few days before, you notice this annoying acne? Then keep reading for an affordable and effective solution.
The Cos Rx acne patch does not only prevent you from incessantly touching your face, but it also has healing properties because it contains hydrocolloid.
First Impression/ Packaging
I loved the white flat pack it comes in. It has a simple design and is very lightweight. That means it can fit into a mini bag for travel with no stress. I like that the benefits are written on the pack too.
Inside the pack is the sheet that contains the patches. They’re almost transparent and feel like little bandages.
My experience
Korean skincare products are fast gaining a spot in my heart. I had seen this review and wasn’t sure where to find it. From the article, it seemed too good to be true. I remember reading some DIY tips and tricks for those pimples that seemed to appear the night before a major event. Anyways, I made a mental note to get it someday since I’m acne-prone.
My first try was when I noticed this big zit on my cheek area (their favorite spot). After my night routine, I used a patch almost the size of the zit. I like that it sticks on the skin like a little band-aid. I noticed that it reduced the redness (inflammation) and the size of the zit. Seeing the content of the acne come out with the patch was remarkable. That’s the same result as popping a pimple, but with no bacteria spread and dark scars.
I also prefer to use the Cosrx acne patch at night for two reasons.
The first is I don’t have to explain why something strange is on my face. The second is the sweet surprise I get when I take it off in the morning. It feels surreal!
My first try was when I noticed this big zit on my cheek area (their favorite spot). After my night routine, I used a patch almost the size of the zit. I like that it sticks on the skin like a little band-aid. I like to use it on the acne that looks really inviting to pop. It’s like I’m curtailing my temptation.
Pros
It is lightweight.
Can be used for both males and females (like most skincare products can, actually).
Can be cute gift for a skincare lover.
Very true to its claims.
Reusable (if patch has no grime, but i prefer to use it once).
Cons
None that I know of.
Results
My acne was well reduced and it felt like I didn’t have any blemish there prior.
It also prevented me from touching my face (most times, because I still indulge once in a while) and less hyperpigmentation in turn. I would like to mention that this review is on hormonal acne, not cystic acne, so I can’t say if it works for the latter, although this article says so.
Will I be getting this again? Definitely. It does what it’s meant to do and I’ll rate it a 4.5/5
Have you used an acne patch before? Will you like to try it?
This post starts with thriving because that’s all I hope for in this phase of my life. To be fair, this final year of med school is one of a kind.
Lately, I prefer to just write in my journal and my note app when the ideas come to mind. Still, I would be lying if I said it’s been easy. Nonetheless, this post is not to be sad, but to give you an update on the past month.
School and Life
I’m currently in my second posting. That means I’m in the 2nd rotation of the 4 rotations that make up my final year. Precisely surgery posting. The resident strike is finally over and the patients arrived like a river with no dam.
In other words, I’ve been an overworked student. Asides from the fact that sleep never feels enough lately, I’m generally exhausted. In the midst of this madness, doing my devotion and exercising have been hard. Especially the latter. I recently heard that you make time for what matters to you. That has been a reminder to encourage myself when I go days giving the excuse to not seek God’s face.
Next up, I finished Stop Calling Me Beautiful by Phylicia Masonheimer. It was part of what brought me joy. Currently, I’m reading Not Yet Married by Marshall Segal, and What’s Best Next by Matt Perman.
Memories
As much as the stress was “choking”, I got some good moments in October. Moments where I took a breather and just had fun.
On October, 16th, my classmates and I took a break from the “rollercoaster” and had our first final year class event at Kodo beach house, Lagos. It was an experience to remember and definitely one of the beach houses you should visit in Lagos.
Caught in the act!
A cutey.
Me and some of my girls!
Kodo beach house swimming pool.
Photo credit for the pictures above- Tomi Salau! Check him out here.
Photo credit- my bae!
On October 29th, I attended my final departmental dinner. It felt surreal! I took a mental note of all the past dinners and how far my colleagues and I had come.
The month ended with a stressful posting (Neurosurgery), but I got a highlight- scrubbing in for the first time! Trust me to have a picture. More pictures will be on my Instagram and Pinterest (follow to be updated).
First time assisting a surgery.
AMSUL dinner
October came with random messages of encouragement, opportunities, and love some of you share with me. It’s part of what keeps a baby girl moving.
That’s it for now. My current season is school, and I hope to thrive.
What season are you currently in, and how has it been? Let me know in the comments!
The first time I heard about henna was as a child. I grew up watching a lot of Bollywood, thanks to my aunty. It is an integral part of my first memories of entertainment, long before Silverbird cartoons.
It was always applied during their weddings and I found them intriguing. Fast forward to over 12 years, and in the spirit of trying new things as a young adult, I decided to get one done. The perfect opportunity came when I had an event with my classmates at a beach house.
Henna history time
Henna also called mehndi in Hindi and Urdu, has been used in Pakistan, India, Africa, and the Middle East for over 5000 years. According to this article, it was originally used for its natural cooling properties for people living in hot desert climates.
Cultures are beautiful. I found out that the Henna paste symbolizes good health and prosperity in marriage. It is also important to know that henna designs are not tattoos, as the paste is a temporary dye that sits on the skin’s surface.
The designs generally last from 1-4 weeks on the skin surface depending on the henna, care, and skin type.
Mine was on my upper back and lasted roughly 2 weeks.
Areas that stain the darkest are the palms, soles of the feet, and the knuckles. Those on the hands tend to fade faster because of continued washing. I read here the forearms and lower legs and ankles last the longest and go up to 4 weeks, but I would estimate how long when I get another! Funny enough, henna on the hair is permanent. It will fade, but it’s hard to remove.
My experience
I have read that people react to the henna paste. I was a bit anxious about it and Henna by Hafsah was gracious to calm my fears. I also loved how she showed me designs and made sure I was comfortable while she worked. I didn’t have any reactions and that was a relief.
It took about 35 minutes to design and almost an hour to dry. Apparently, you have to wash it off to get the excess paste out and then the beautiful design emerges clearer. I found that fascinating.
One thing I’m learning to do is to not shut my mind off to new experiences that do no harm. This one is one of them and I can’t wait to try another design.
Have you ever had a henna design? Would you like to get one or not? Let me know below.
