Texting your crush first is definitely nerve-wracking, but sometimes it’s way better than waiting for them to make the first move. They’ll be thankful that you took the pressure off of them, and you’ll get to choose the conversation topic.  Once you decide to text them, take a few minutes to gather your courage and decide what you want to say. Take a few deep breaths and remember that everything is going to be OK. Remember that you have a big advantage: since you’re talking over text, your crush won’t be able to tell that you’re nervous! It’s great to start a texting conversation with a question about something you have in common with your crush, like a class, an event, or someone you both know. This conversation starter feels easy and natural, and makes it simple to move into other topics right after.  For example, you could say something like, “Hey, are you going to Josh’s party tonight?” or “Do you have the math homework for this week? I totally forgot to write it down.” You could also start off with a comment about something you have in common, like “Mr. Jones was being so crazy in history today,” or “The Lions played really well last night, did you watch the game?” Memes and gifs are a great way to break the ice over text. Send one that relates to something you know about them, that you have in common, or that reminds them of you.  For example, if your crush is taking exams all week, you could send them a funny “Good luck on your exams!” meme or gif. Try not to send something that’s totally random, which could confuse them or make them feel awkward. You want them to be able to tell what you’re referencing, which will make it feel like a funny inside joke. If you know that your crush has a good sense of humor, try throwing in a light, underhanded “insult” to make them want to work for your approval. Being witty and funny will make the conversation fun and keep your crush on their toes.  For example, you could say something like, “I heard you passed your driver’s test the other day… I’ll tell everyone I know to stay off the roads ;)” You can also try self-deprecating or exaggerated humor about yourself. If they mention that you got a high score on a test, for example, you could say something like, “Yeah, apparently I’m a genius or something ¯\_(ツ)_/¯” Only tease them about lighter topics. Stay away from things like family, appearance, politics, or other sensitive subjects, especially if you’re just getting to know them. It can feel really frustrating if your crush doesn’t text you back right away, but do your best to stay patient and not text them until they respond. Texting them over and over again can get annoying and make you seem needy.  Waiting to text back until they respond can show that you’re relaxed, flexible, and even intriguing. It’s best not to flood them with messages even when they do text you back. Sending just one or two messages at a time shows that you’re playing it cool and have your own life. Going overboard with emojis, exclamation marks, and question marks can make you seem unsure of yourself. Instead, limit yourself to just one exclamation mark or emoji per text, especially at the beginning when you’re still learning your crush’s texting style. Don’t hide behind your phone and pretend you’re someone that you’re not. Being genuine and confident in who you are is the most attractive thing you can do! Feel free to take a few minutes between texts to take a few calming breaths and think about what you want to say next. It’s fine to take up to 10-15 minutes (but no longer) to send your next text if you really need time to think. No matter how many friendly, charismatic techniques you use, sometimes your crush just won’t be interested. If they’re responding with 1-2 word messages, or not responding at all, they’re probably not that invested in the conversation—and not worth your time.  At this point, it’s best to put down your phone and walk away. Stop texting them and respect that they don’t feel the same way, but remember that it’s their loss. Remember, you should never use up your time on someone who doesn’t see how awesome you are. It’s OK to feel disappointed and upset, but you should also be really proud of yourself for having the courage to put yourself out there.
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One-sentence summary -- Don’t be afraid to text them first. Start things off with a casual, specific question. Send them a funny meme or gif to make them laugh. Tease them lightly to show your sense of humor. Don’t text them over and over, especially if they’re not responding. Limit your emojis and exclamation points. Stay calm and be yourself. Move on if it seems like your crush isn’t interested.


Get out a clean 1-ounce (30-ml) spray bottle and pour 1/2 ounce (15 ml) of rosewater and 1/2 ounce (15 ml) of witch hazel into it. Add 9 drops of your favorite essential oil (such as tea tree, lavender, or geranium) and screw the lid on. Shake the bottle to combine the toner. Spray it on your skin or spray it onto a cotton pad that you can brush over your face.  You can use a combination of different essential oils. For example, try 4 drops of geranium and 5 drops of tea tree oil. To remove makeup or dirt left after washing your face, apply a sparing amount of essential oil to a cotton ball and wipe it gently over your face and throat. Take 2 clean cotton rounds and dip them in witch hazel or your infused witch hazel. Close your eyes and lay them on the puffy skin under your eyes. Let the rounds sit on your skin for 3 to 5 minutes and remove them. The witch hazel should tighten your skin and reduce the puffiness. Squirt a quarter-sized amount of aloe vera gel into the palm of your hand. Add a 1 to 2 teaspoons (5 to 10 ml) of witch hazel or infused witch hazel and stir it together using your fingertip. Spread the witch hazel aloe vera gel over the sunburned skin on your face and let it dry. Reapply the gel as often as you need to.  Spread a thin layer so the gel can dry. You should feel a cooling sensation on your face once the witch hazel aloe vera gel begins to work. Witch hazel can dry out your skin, so avoid applying it alone to a sunburn. If your skin is breaking out in pimples and zits, dip a cotton ball in witch hazel. Place the cotton ball directly on the blemished area of your skin and hold it there for a few minutes. You can do this 1 to 2 times a day until your acne clears up. Research shows that because it's an astringent and has antibacterial properties, witch hazel can reduce inflammation from acne and eczema. Dip a cotton ball or pad into witch hazel and press it onto any cuts or bruises on your face. Hold the cotton in place for 2 to 3 minutes. The witch hazel will improve drainage in your face, which will speed up healing. Apply the witch hazel to the bruises or cuts 2 to 3 times a day. Wet a cotton ball with witch hazel, and wipe it gently over your face and throat. This is an effective way to remove stubborn traces of makeup without vigorous rubbing that might irritate your skin.
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One-sentence summary --
Use witch hazel after cleansing to tone your skin and shrink pores. Reduce eye puffiness and undereye bags. Relieve the discomfort from a sunburn. Soothe irritated skin and fight acne. Heal cuts and fade bruises. Remove stubborn or waterproof makeup gently.