First Impressions: Medelita Ionic Scrub Jacket Review

I'm a little bit over a week into my surgery rotation and it's been such a different experience! I was in family medicine for 8 weeks, and so being in the OR and in the surgery clinic has been such a different environment. One of my most favorite thing about it is the team work - each and every individual plays a vital role in the outcome of the patient. Anyway, I digress - today what I really wanted to share with you all is the Medelita Ionic Jacket! Which by the way,  I wish I can wear into the OR. 

This will be a "first impression" review since I haven't gotten a chance to actually wear this out to the hospital. I did wear it around the house with my workout clothes to lounge in. Hope you all enjoy this review!

Color choices: there are only two options available, navy blue or black. While the choices seem underwhelming, it's the two colors that are very versatile to wear within different hospitals. After all, this is meant to be a scrub jacket.

Style: I love the athletic style of this jacket, hence why I was wearing it with my workout clothes! It's got a sleek look to it, all the pockets you can ever ask for, and also a vent in the back to keep you cool. Also, the back is slightly longer to cover the tush if that's something that you like! As I mentioned, it's got A LOT of pockets so you're sure to have a place for your snacks, phone, pens, and whatever else you keep on hand. 

Fit: Now, while the shoulder area fit me just fine, i found the length to be a little long. I know that this specific jacket was made to be long, but I'm only 5'2" so I think it's a little longer on me. This was not a big problem for me though! It's not body-hugging either, meaning the fit is looser on me. I guess different overall fit for different body types, but you'll see down below how it lays on my frame. (I got the XS for reference).

Quality: Last but not least, the quality. When I first took it out of the packaging, the material seemed high-quality and that it'll keep me warm once I do get to wear it around the hospital (which I'm excited to wear it for!). When I did wear it to lounge around in, it kept me warm because I tend to get cold easily. As far as a material, it is a little stretchy, and it's supposed to dry fast just in case you spill anything on it ;) 

For more information about the Medelita Ionic Scrub Jacket, click HERE. To get 15% off your purchase, you can use the code "LIFEINTHEMEDLANE1" on check out! (And we can twin ;D).

xo,
Dorothy

Workout With Me Wednesday - Boards Edition Featuring Pranamat

If you have been following my blog, you've seen my #WWMW series. Check them out by clicking here. Today, I'd like to share with you guys how I changed up my workout routine and how I modified it to still fit a workout into my schedule!

Usually, I go to the gym four to five times a week and I lift and do some cardio (and I mean minimal). Throughout my board studying time, I found that if I did that amount and type of working out, I got way too tired and too sore and didn't make time to recover. So what did I do to change it up?

1. I did more cardio. SAY WHAT?! If you know me, I don't like cardio. But I know it's needed. So, what I did sometimes was I got on the treadmill, and either watched some videos (Sketchy, DIT, Pathoma) or did some questions, or flashcards. 

2. I did more yoga. I actually really love yoga and have failed to incorporate it into my workout routine, which led to slower recovery. I'm notoriously bad at giving myself adequate time to stretch and rehab my muscles, so I'm definitely glad that I incorporated more yoga during this time (and will be doing more of it from now on). My favorite to do is Yoga With Adriene on the good 'ol YouTube. She has so many different options, as well as different lengths of videos. So if I only have time for a quick yoga sesh, I go for a 10-15 minute one! Also, this was one of my favorites to do: 10-minute Yoga For Self-Care 

3. HIIT Sessions. So I did these a few times during board-study period and WOWZA. If you want to sweat, get your HR up, and get some endorphins flowing DO THIS. I just made it up as I went really but here's a quick sequence I did. 
- Warm up speed walk on treadmill (5 mins)
- Kettlebell swings - 15 reps
- Air squats - 15 reps
- Knee Tucks on Bosu ball - 15 reps
- Alternating toe taps (plank formation, with feet on Bosu ball, alternate taps OFF the Bosu ball) - 15 reps each side
REPEAT this for 3 times, with 1 min rest in between. 

4. Recovery with Pranamat. What is Pranamat? It's a acupressure massage mat that has these things that look like lotus flowers but are actually little spike-y massage stimulators. These help circulation and muscle aches, pains and tension. I loved using this when I come home from a whole day of studying and laying on it. I started out by using it on my bed since it takes some getting used to (be careful of the spikes and lay down gently!). Once you're on it, you will feel heat build up on your back if you're laying on it. It simple feels like all the tension just melts away! During board studying time, it helped me unwind at the end of the day especially since my back would start to hurt after sitting for most of the day. Also, if I was feeling sore from my workouts, it helped with recovery too! I would sit on it as well to relieve any aches or tension on my tush, haha! If you want to find out more about Pranamat you can click here, and if you'd like to purchase one, use LIFEINTHEMEDLANE10 to get 10% off your order!

Having to modify my workout routine was definitely challenging in a sense that I felt like I wasn't doing "as much" as I normally do, but it was still important to listen to my body and what it needed at the time. Also, something I've learned during this time was the important to giving your body and muscles time to recover, by having rest days, incorporating yoga, and using tools such Pranamat to help aid in the recovery process! Board studying time is already stressful as it is, so it's important to take care of your mind and body too!

I hope y'all found this useful, and remember to still get in some workout time - no matter what that looks like - despite the busy schedule you may have!

xoxo, Dorothy 

*Thank you Pranamat for letting me try this product out!

Skincare Review: Odacite Skincare - A Natural Skincare Brand | UPDATE

Backround

Long time, no blog everyone! I hope you are all doing so well. I've missed blogging so much and have lots of goodies to share with you soon & this review is something I've been very excited about. A few months ago, I got in touch with one of my favorite skincare brands and they have graciously sent me a few products to try, including one of my skincare STAPLES! 

UPDATE - scroll to the end, to get 10% off your purchase on Odacite.com!

If you haven't heard of Odacite before, it is a California-based, all natural, vegan, cruelty-free skincare brand that caters to multiple different skin types and issues. I found out about them through my purchase of their concentrated serums and my favorite to this day which is the Black Cumin and Cajeput serum (you'll see more about it below). Ever since then, I was hooked. It's one of the things that has helped me keep my acne in check. 

So here is a breakdown of the products I was sent:

Synergie[4] Immediate Skin Perfecting Beauty Masque

The masks I tend to use have an exfoliating, grainy texture once washing it off. This is different. The powder formula is SO fine, in fact SO VERY FINE! I was a little hesitant on how much "exfoliating power" it has. Now, this mask claims to do A LOT of things. Just reading the name of the product makes me feel like it's going to perfect all my skin care issues. So what exactly does it claim to do?
It claims to:
- DETOX and PURIFY PORES via the clay and activated charcoal ingredients. 
- Act as a PEEL via the enzyme and fruit acids.
- BRIGHTEN and EVEN OUT SKINTONES via the vitamin C and enzymes
- FIRM the skin via the vitamin C and probiotcs

So how exactly did the Synergie[4] Immediate Skin Perfecting Beauty Masque work on my skin?

The masks I've used previously tend to have a lot of exfoliating properties on top of the skin-detoxifying properties. This mask is different in that the powder formula is SO VERY FINE, so I was a little worried that there would not be much exfoliation. Granted, this is NOT an exfoliating product but usually I end up getting some exfoliation out of my masks. The way I made #MySkinCocktail is by activating the mask with water, and adding a couple of drops of the Black Cumin and Cajeput Concentrated Serum.  I ended up putting on a thick layer on my face so it did take longer than normal to dry. Once it was completely dry, I washed it all off and my initial thought was "my face feels so smooth and not dry!" That was the first time I've felt that my skin was not dry after a mask, and was all about it. Now, I don't think my skin was "immediately perfected" as the name states it would do, but using it a handful of times now, I noticed my pores have been more detoxified than ever and my skin seems brighter. I can't wait to see how it will improve my skin over time. There are multiple ways to whip up your skincare cocktail: you can mix it with apple cider vinegar, yogurt, even honey! The package comes with an insert that outlines different recipes based on your skincare needs, so make sure to check that out! 

Next up: Rose + Neroli Hydra-Vitalizing Treatment Mist

This is not your average toner. I actually stopped buying toners because I felt like they didn't really do anything for me, and I made my own (purified water with drops of tea tree oil) which worked fine but nothing exciting. This treatment mist claims to balance skin and minimize the appearance of pores. I love that this can actually be used by itself in place of lotion/moisturizer, but I'm way too into my skincare to skip those steps, haha! This product can also be used to refresh through out the day, and also as a setting spray after make up! I haven't used it throughout the day or after make up, but I mainly use it as my step after cleansing! As far as the pore minimizing effect, I can't say that it was super drastic and I couldn't tell as much as I can tell the hydration factor of this treatment mist. Also, the gorgeous smell of the neroli and rose doesn't hurt either ;) I can literally spray this mist on my face all day long but I'm trying to make it last as long as I can! Definitely going to try their other treatment mists!  

Last but not least: Black Cumin + Cajeput Concentrated Serum

Okay. THIS is H A N D S D O W N my favorite! I've tried so many different things for my acne that has dried my skin and made it worse, but this - no dryness, no irritation. Now, my skin has come a longggggg waaaaay. I still get my breakouts especially that time of the month or when stress levels are through the roof (also when I'm not eating very clean, shh!). I used this everyday, morning and night and tend to concentrate on the areas where I breakout which is my T-zone, and especially my chin. It's a gentle way to battle those breakouts, but not less effective! There are other serums from Odacite that addresses breakouts, clogged pores, and scarring, so make sure to check them out! And not just for acne, but also for other skincare concerns too like dullness, redness, hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, and more! As mentioned earlier, I added a couple of drops to the Synergie[4] Immediate Skin Perfecting Beauty Masque to add extra oomph to the detoxing and purifying properties of the mask.  

Last thoughts

I'm so happy I got the chance to try two new products, and a tried and true one from Odacite. I've never experienced any irritation or problems with these products and it's awesome because my skin is usually picky when I put a new product on it. Again, the products are not miracle workers by any means (at least for me), but I know they will do wonders for my skin over time. I'll be definitely purchasing these products again once I've run out! I love skincare products that are natural and clean, but still provide results and Odacite is definitely a top on my skincare fave list!

Shop these favorites below! 

xoxo, Dorothy Faye

UPDATE:
Use code "LIFEINTHEMEDLANE" at check out to get 10% off your purchase at Odacite.com

*Thank you to Odacite for sending the this gift! 

Honest Review of FRE Skincare - A Skincare For Women Who Love to Workout and Sweat

Hello to all my friends on this corner of the interwebs! I'm so excited to share and review this product with you all because: A. I love to workout, B. I've never come across a skincare line that specifically is for "sweaty skin". That definitely sparked the curiosity in me & I was so intrigued. 

First & foremost, I want to thank FRE for partnering with me so that I can review this product for you guys. Without further ado, here is my honest opinion about the 3 products from the 123FRE Set. 

The Review

The 123FRE Set includes the following: "Protect Me" (Sunscreen), "Purify Me" (Cleanser), and "Revive Me" (Serum). The idea is that you will use the sunscreen before your workout, especially if you're going to be exercising outside. After the workout, you will cleanse with the Purify Me cleanser. Lastly, you will rehydrate and rejuvenate your skin with the Revive Me serum. Let me just tell you all right off the bat, that I did not use the products in orders AND that I did not exclusively use these products. I added these products to my current skincare routine, really like a "supplemental" skincare. 

1. Protect Me
This product was "meh" for me. I've tried sunscreens before that are more liquid-y & light-weight (such as Kiehls and Lancome's), so this one did not particularly "wow" me. This SPF is not heavy by anymeans so I don't want to give off that impression. I like that it does dry fast enough so that you can continue with your skincare/makeup routine. I will say though, you can still tell that you're wearing SPF but that feeling goes away throughout the day. Some people like that feeling (it makes you feel good that you're protecting your skin). But some don't - I'm in the second camp! Also, I'd like to admit that I'm not currently using an SPF besides my make up (GASP). I know, I know - I'm trying to get better at it too. So, I am glad that I now have this product so that I can incorporate SPF into my daily routine. I would like to see FRE develop this into an even more light-weight formula (a more liquid-y one), but we shall see! Otherwise, this is definitely a great alternative to those
super-greasy facial sunscreens! This product claims to reduce premature aging, shields from UVA and UVB rays, combats photo-aging, and softens skin. Hopefully, with my continued use, I will prevent those things. (Let's be real though, your girl has been stuck in the libs, studying for boards).

2. Purify Me
Now, this cleanser has definitely grown on me! I haven't used a beaded cleanser in a long time because I figured I would just exfoliate with my Clarisonic once in a blue moon. Or when I give my skin an extra scrub as I take off a mask that I would do every two weeks, if that. But boy, does my face need some exfoliation. Since I sweat (a lot) when I work out AND yes, I work out with a full face of make-up on (so bad for the skin TBH, but I'm so guilty), my skin needs the extra exfoliating action. The beads in this cleanser are so fine that it provides just the right amount of "scrub-factor". Another thing I love about this cleanser is that it did not strip my skin of moisture. That tight-skin feeling after cleansing is such a HUGE pet peeve of mine because "why should a cleanser deplete my skin of moisture?!". This product claims to restore the natural pH balance of skin, unclog pores, prevent breakouts & irritation, hydrate and nourish skin. As I said, this cleanser delivered a lot (more than I was expecting). I tend to only use this after workouts - so at night time. BUT as I mentioned needing the extra exfoliation, I will be using it more often (probably every night). In the mornings I use a non-exfoliating cleanser. 

3. Revive Me
Last but not the least, is this serum. This one is MY ABSOLUTE FAVORITE out of the set. I love it so much that I use it morning and night - it's definitely earned a spot in my current skin care routine! It's so hydrating and my skin just feels so soft when I wake up in the morning. This literally revives my skin haha! (Okay, sorry for being dramatic - this one really is my fave). You only really need a tiny amount (pea-sized) and it goes such a long way. This product claims to regenerate collagen & elasticity, anti-aging, anti-wrinkle, replenish lost vitamins and minerals (from sweating), improves skin firmness and density. I can't accurately asses all of these right now as I've only been using it for a month and a half, but I feel like with continued use it will definitely prevent the wrinkles and aging and improve elasticity. Of course, it's not a miracle product by any means, but I believe that it's going to be a great asset to anyone's skincare routine!  

Other important info:

FRE Skincare is a completely vegan skincare line, which is great for all my vegan babes out there! Also, this is not just for those who workout. It's also for ladies who love to spend time outdoors, under the sun - It doesn't matter the way you sweat! I mean, let's be real: if you're a skincare junkie and want to try out new products, go for it! 

All of FRE's products are based on an Argania Active Complex. It's not merely just argan oil, but FRE uses argan stem cells. It's supposed to have more benefits for the skin than just the oil. Check this page out for all the benefits of the ingredients they use, and how their product targets the different effects of exercising, sweating, and sun-damage: Click Here.

Also, I will mention that this is NOT an anti-acne product. There is definitely a benefit of preventing acne from using this, but it's not necessarily formulated for that purpose. Just an FYI, if you're looking for more of an acne treatment. I will say though, that if your acne is more due to lack of washing your face after a sweaty workout or being outdoors this may work for you! (*Just my own opinion). 

Overall:

I've enjoyed incorporating these products into my skincare routine. Not only that, but it has encouraged me to be more aware about wearing SPF, even if I'm indoors most of the time. My skincare routine is definitely pretty hefty, and I'm not very good at sticking to only three products. So, these will continue to be incorporated into in my routine especially since I workout pretty often throughout the week. Also, I just love switching it up sometimes when it comes to skincare (#skincarejunkie). 

But if you're a minimalist, I'd say this is a pretty solid set! The serum nearly acts as both a treatment and moisturizer, and you can pop the sunscreen right on top! The cleanser is gentle enough (even with the exfoliating beads) that you can possibly use it morning and night if you so choose.

Worth mentioning, is the fact that I have not gotten any adverse reactions from any of the products! I think the only thing that I'm not very fond of (still) is the sunscreen feeling, which this formula is not even heavy. I'm just dramatic, and still getting used to it. (Don't worry, I'll be better about wearing sunscreen - PROMISE!) 

Bonus (Discount Code Anyone?)

As a bonus, FRE is offering a 15% OFF Discount for YALL! Use Code LIFEINTHEMEDLANE to save yourself some moolah ;)
This discount code can be used multiple times, and feel free to share it! 

Last thing: If you do give this set, or any of the products a try, I would LOVE to hear your thoughts! 

As always, thank you for reading & your continued support. Talk with you all soon!

Xo, Dorothy

Follow along on my Social Media: 

Instagram: @_dorothyfaye
Facebook: Life In The Med Lane
Twitter: @DorothyFaye

Guest Blogging on "Nicolet.Life" about Osteopathic Medicine

Happy Friday my friends! I was so excited when Nicolet, from Nicolet.Life, asked if I would contribute to the series she started. Of course I was all for it, because this series is all about Osteopathic Medicine from the eyes of different individuals. Whether medical students, pre-med, etc. 

I will link the piece down below, so be sure to check it out! (Also, check out the other pieces and learn a little bit more about Osteopathic Medicine from different perspectives). 

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Link to my guest post:
"Osteopathic Medicine: from the eyes of Dorothy"

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Once you've read it, let me know what you think & what stood out to you the most! Don't forget to also show some love to my friend Nicolet ;) 

xo, Dorothy