Abib's HeartLeaf Spot Pad Review

Abib Heartleaf Spot Pads

(I accidentally pressed the "add Google links" and couldn't undo it... so now I'm left with a whole post full of Google links 😭 apologies for the messy-looking post! 🙇)

The Korean brand Abib isn’t new to me — I’ve used their sheet masks before and liked them. They didn’t exactly wow me… but this product definitely did.

I found these Heartleaf Spot Pads at Costco and picked them up without much expectation. I’ve heard of them, I’ve used heartleaf products before, and I just wanted something moisturizing. But these pads didn’t just meet expectations — they completely surpassed them.

Within one to two uses, they healed my broken skin and calmed irritation. Within three to four days, my skin barrier was fully restored. I wasn’t expecting that level of recovery at all.

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🍃 Why Heartleaf (Houttuynia Cordata) Is So Popular in Korean Skincare

details

• Soothes irritation + redness: Heartleaf is known for calming sensitive, inflamed skin — perfect for breakouts or reaction-prone skin.

• Strengthens the skin barrier: It reduces excess oil, balances the skin, and helps repair weakened areas.

No wonder this product works so well on compromised skin.

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🧖‍♀️Benefits of Spot Pads in Skincare

drenched in serum :)

• Boost absorption: They cleanse remaining residue so the rest of your skincare sinks in better.

• Targeted care: You can leave them on areas that need extra hydration, calming, or barrier repair.

These pads do both extremely well.

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First Impressions

It quickly became one of my favourite products!

• The cotton pads are thicker and smaller than expected

• The scent is interesting — not good, not bad… a mix of acidic + leafy

• They said use "tweezers" but no tweezers were provided

• There is a harsh and a fine side, the harsh side is too harsh for me, but the fine side is perfect for mild exfoliating (no issues on sensitive skin)

• My skin drank the essence instantly

• Slight sting on broken or compromised skin

• Heals broken skin and barrier issues surprisingly fast

• Thoroughly cleanses without irritation

• Removes stubborn oil + debris my cleanser can’t get

• Skin felt soft, smooth, and refreshed the next morning

On day one, the pads stung slightly on damaged skin, but they also healed it almost instantly. That’s when I knew this was something special.

Before going further: This product healed my skin barrier. And very few products can make me say that with confidence.

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My Experience

gunk: grease, oil, dirt and debris from my face 😱 

This product didn't just hydrate — it changed my skin.
Even after cleansing, these pads always manage to remove leftover oil, dirt, or debris. My skin ends up perfectly prepped to absorb whatever comes next. After two months of consistent use, my skin feels noticeably stronger, smoother, and healthier. That soft, silky feeling didn’t exist two months ago.
My skin had been irritated and sensitive (I’m pretty sure environmental buildup wasn’t helping), but now? It feels resilient. Balanced. Calm. Hydrated from within.
Honestly… this has become a product I can’t imagine not having anymore.

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⭐ Final Thoughts

The Abib Heartleaf Spot Pads have officially earned a permanent spot in my routine. What started as an impulse Costco buy turned into one of the most effective skin-repairing products I’ve tried in years. If your skin barrier is struggling, your skin is easily irritated, or you just want a product that cleanses and heals at the same time — this is absolutely worth trying.
I didn’t expect to love it this much, but here we are. This is a keeper. 💚

Score: 9.9/10 (that's high!)
Website: https://en.abib.com/products/calming-touch

Listerine PocketPaks Fresh Burst short review

I  can’t believe they reintroduced these! I actually liked them back in the day and was so upset when I couldn’t find them anymore. But I found these at Costco and immediately bought a pack! These should last me a long, long time! 😄

When they were first introduced about 20 years ago, most people knew them simply as Listerine Breath Strips. I don’t remember the exact name, but I’m pretty sure they weren’t called PocketPaks or Freshburst back then.

When they discontinued them a few years later, I was quite upset, because these were such a great alternative to gum and breath mints! And most importantly, they actually worked!

Fast forward to this new version and I have to say, I’m glad they took the time to reformulate. The new ones don’t sting the mouth as much as the old version did, and the freshness feels cleaner and longer-lasting.

I bought them half because of nostalgia and half for their function. Most breath mints these days have a hard time truly freshening breath, and I sometimes find myself panicking in social settings because the mints just aren’t strong enough. Gum works, but it takes time and isn’t ideal when you want something instant.

These new strips immediately stick to the top of my mouth and get to work right away. They don’t sting like before, and the freshness lasts impressively long.

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First Impressions:

• Nostalgia factor: Loved them in the past, happy they’re back!
• Reformulated: Less sting than the older version, cleaner and longer-lasting freshness.
• Convenient: Strips stick to the top of your mouth and act instantly — no waiting like gum.
• Effective: Strong enough to freshen breath immediately, perfect for social settings.
• Portable: Small pack fits easily in a bag or pocket for on-the-go use.
• Fun to use: Quick dissolve, refreshing minty blast, smooth without harshness.

The moment I tried one, I was instantly taken back in time — that quick dissolve and rush of cool minty air! 🫧 The best part? No harsh sting this time, just a crisp, clean freshness that hits right when you need it. It’s strong enough to make you feel instantly refreshed but smooth enough that it doesn’t make your eyes water. The little pack is also very handy; it is easy to slip into my bag or pocket for an instant confidence boost before meetings or coffee runs.

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Conclusion:
I’m genuinely happy these are back! The improved formula makes them even better than I remembered — effective, fast-acting, and surprisingly gentle. They strike the perfect balance between nostalgia and practicality. If you ever loved these back in the day (or even if you’ve never tried them), they’re absolutely worth picking up again.

score: 9.5/10
website: https://www.listerine.com/on-the-go-oral-health/listerine-pocketpaks-freshburst

Cheez It Wendy's Baconator Flavour short review

I’ve never been a huge fan of Cheez-Its. I like cheese and crackers, but the cheese for Cheez-Its is usually isn’t sharp or flavourful enough for me. That said, I decided to give the special edition Wendy’s Baconator Cheez-Its a try. They’re pricier than your average Cheez-It, but after tasting them, I understood why. The bacon flavour adds a delicious, savoury punch, and I was able to finish a whole box in no time!

Why is it that limited-edition foods almost always taste amazing? Why can’t they just become a permanent part of the lineup? I’m really hoping these come back soon so I can stock up! It just goes to show that products can have fun, tasty variations, and this one was such a delightful surprise. :)

All in all, these Wendy’s Baconator Cheez-Its were a total win: cheesy, bacon-y, and way too easy to finish in one sitting. Limited edition or not, they prove that a little twist on a classic snack can make it feel like a whole new treat. Fingers crossed they come back soon, because I’ll be first in line for another box!

Score: 9/10
Website: https://www.cheezit.com/en-us/products/cheez-it-baconator.html

Rootalive Chicory Mushroom Coffee review

Mushroom blend Coffee alternative

🌿 Trying Mushroom Coffee for the First Time

Mushroom coffee has piqued my attention, especially as someone who likes to try new things — and mushrooms 🍄 and coffee ☕️ are both big parts of my palette.

I first saw ads for mushroom coffee on TV and then stumbled upon this blend by Rootalive while shopping at Marshall’s. Naturally, curiosity won.

ingredients and other information

☕️ Description by Rootalive

“Our chicory mushroom blend is a perfect alternative to coffee. It is powered by chicory root, which contains high amounts of inulin, a prebiotic soluble fibre that feeds your digestive flora. It also contains high-quality organic mushrooms known for their restorative properties. Indulge in a delicious, well-rounded cup of this calorie-free blend to satisfy your coffee cravings.”

The ingredients are very straightforward:

Instant Chicory Powder, Organic Mushroom Powder Blend (Organic Cordyceps, Organic Reishi, Organic Lion's Mane, Organic Shiitake, Organic Turkey Tail, Organic King Trumpet).

It looks earthy

🍄 Ingredient Benefits

Chicory – Known for its prebiotic properties that support gut health, improve digestion, and promote healthy gut flora. It may also help regulate blood sugar levels and support liver health.

Organic Cordyceps – Enhances energy and stamina, supports oxygen utilization, and may improve endurance and athletic performance. It’s also believed to help combat fatigue and support respiratory health.

Organic Reishi – Often called the “mushroom of immortality,” it helps boost the immune system, reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, and improve sleep and stress management.

Organic Lion’s Mane – Known as the brain mushroom, it supports cognitive function, focus, and memory. It may also help with nerve regeneration and mood regulation.

Organic Shiitake – Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support immune and heart health. It can also help lower cholesterol and promote glowing, healthy skin.

Organic Turkey Tail – Packed with powerful antioxidants and immune-boosting polysaccharides (PSK and PSP) that strengthen the body’s natural defences and support gut microbiome health.

Organic King Trumpet (King Oyster) – Supports cholesterol management, bone strength, and antioxidant protection. It’s also high in ergothioneine, an amino acid that helps protect cells from oxidative stress.

☕️ Directions

Add 2 teaspoons to 8–10 oz of hot or cold water, blend thoroughly, and enjoy! You can also enhance it with milk, creamer, or a natural sweetener.

(Note: Natural ingredients may cause some sediment to form — that’s totally normal.)

✨ First Impressions

Naturally, I was curious to see how it would taste, especially since mushroom coffee has such a reputation for being either surprisingly good or… an acquired taste. So, I made my first cup and here’s what I noticed:

• It tastes very strongly of mushrooms — earthy, deep, and slightly bitter.

• It reminded me a bit of Chinese herbal medicine, probably because of the Reishi mushroom.

• Milk makes a huge difference! Adding milk completely transformed the flavour, making it smooth, comforting, and easy to drink.

• It feels nourishing — my body genuinely felt calm and refreshed afterward.

🌸 Overall Thoughts

To my surprise, I actually enjoyed it, especially once I learned how to balance the flavour with milk. The experience feels grounding, and I like how it gives a gentle sense of focus without the usual coffee jitters.

Overall, my first impression was mixed but interesting; it’s definitely an acquired taste. The earthy flavour was much stronger than I expected, and the Reishi gave it that slightly bitter, medicinal note often found in traditional Chinese herbal tonics. However, once I added milk, the entire experience transformed: the taste mellowed, became smoother, and more balanced. With milk, it became something I actually enjoyed sipping slowly, especially in the afternoon when I needed a gentle pick-me-up without the caffeine jitters.

Chicory Mushroom Coffee with milk

☕️ Conclusion

After finishing my first cup, I can say that while mushroom coffee might not completely replace my usual morning brew, it has earned a spot in my rotation for calmer days. The health benefits are undeniable: from boosting focus to supporting gut and immune health, and I genuinely feel good knowing what’s in it. I find myself wanting to drink it again, especially with a bit of oat or almond milk. It’s definitely one of those drinks that grows on you over time: earthy, grounding, and surprisingly comforting once you get past the first sip.

It’s funny how trying something new can remind you that comfort and wellness can come in the most unexpected forms, even in a cup of mushroom coffee. 🍄☕️

I was able to finish it after adding milk!

Score: 9.0/10
Website: https://www.rootalive.com/products/chicory-mushroom-blend?srsltid=AfmBOop-BGGAF34o_Cwd3R6HVdocCRm1MJmbb7375I_hIQombjTw6ttQ

St. Ives Hydrating Face Mist Grapefruit short review

St. Ives Grapefruit hydrating facial mist

(I wrote this a few months back and forgot to post it! Apologies in advance... Hope you can still find it and use it during your dry cold heater months!)

Hello, hot weather, and AC dry skin! This is the perfect formula for skin discomfort.

I notice that every year around this time, I go hunting for facial mists, and to my disappointment, the mists I used to love always seem to be discontinued. So, I’m always on the hunt. This year, I found one from St. Ives and chose their Grapefruit scent—partly because it smells good and partly because grapefruit-scented facial products are rare.

The formula is paraben-free, dermatologist-tested, and not tested on animals, which I really appreciate. It contains 100% natural grapefruit extract, and each spray dispenses a generous amount—usually just 2–3 sprays are enough to cover and hydrate my face thoroughly.

A spritz of this facial mist contains an infusion of grapefruit, peach, and orange. Although the formula is nothing fancy, it is more than adequate for what I want it to do: moisturize and add hydration to my skin. I also really love the scent—it feels refreshing and cheerful.

First Impressions:

• Light and airy
• Hydrates well
• Leaves skin feeling smooth
• Scent lingers for about 10 minutes

Summary & Thoughts:
This facial mist works well for all skin types, but it’s especially useful when your skin feels a bit dehydrated throughout the day. There aren’t many comparable products on the market, but this one delivers impressive results: my skin feels very smooth, hydrated, and the effects are surprisingly long-lasting for a spray. I am extremely glad I bought it and hope it will still be available when I finish this bottle!

Conclusion:
Overall, I’d recommend this mist if you’re looking for a simple, affordable, and effective way to refresh and hydrate your skin. It’s lightweight, gentle, and cheerful, perfect for daily use, especially in hot weather or when indoor heating dries out your skin. While it’s not revolutionary, it does exactly what it promises—and sometimes, that’s all you need.

Lip Oil trend is back

 

Clarin's lip oil

Lip oils are back in trend, and whenever I think of lip oils, Clarins is the one that comes to mind. I believe Clarins was the brand that really started the lip oil trend over 10 years ago, and it continues to be the OG product in this category because of its consistent quality and smart product marketing.

I had almost forgotten about lip oils and what they actually are—until I bought a new one recently and remembered why I stopped using them in the first place.

Although they sound fancy (lip oils!), they really aren’t much different from lip glosses. In fact, they’re basically lip glosses in disguise. And here’s the thing: lip glosses are not my favourite. I don’t like their consistency, and I really don’t like the sticky feeling they leave behind. Lip oils promise hydration, nourishment, and skincare-like benefits, but in reality, they don’t actually repair or strengthen your lips long-term. They give you shine, maybe a bit of temporary moisture, but that’s it.

So, I’m writing this as a reminder to myself: lip oils = lip glosses.

Pros

• Glossy shine that looks fresh and trendy
• Large doe-foot applicators (especially Clarins) make them easy to apply
• Feel lightweight on first application
• Can give temporary hydration and a smooth finish

Cons

• Basically, lip glosses in disguise—without long-term benefits
• Sticky consistency (same problem as gloss)
• Don’t truly repair or nourish lips over time
• Marketing can be misleading (“oil” makes you think skincare, but it’s not)
• Often more expensive than actual nourishing lip oils or balms

Clarin's lip oil

That being said, one thing I do like about lip oils—specifically Clarins’—is their large doe-foot applicators. They make the application so much easier and more enjoyable.

Since I've already purchased a few lip oils, I’m considering finishing them up and then refilling the tubes with actual, nourishing oils that are genuinely good for the lips. What do you think? :P

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Conclusion:
At the end of the day, lip oils may look and feel nice, but they don’t live up to the hype. They’re glossy, they’re shiny, and yes, they can be fun—but they’re still just lip glosses dressed up as skincare. For me, the stickiness and lack of real results just aren’t worth it. Still, I might hold on to a Clarins tube for the applicator—at least that way, I can fill it with the real nourishing oils my lips actually need.

Revlon Lipsticks: Why Drugstore Lipsticks Will Never Be a Dupe: My Honest Take on Revlon

recent Revlon purchase

It’s been a long time since I’ve used drugstore lipsticks. As someone who usually gravitates toward high-end makeup—think MAC, Chanel, YSL, Armani—I never really felt the pull toward more affordable alternatives. But the other day, I was watching a video on Marilyn Monroe’s lipstick collection and came across a mention of Revlon’s iconic shade, Fire and Ice. Out of pure curiosity, I picked it up at my local drugstore, along with a few other Revlon shades that caught my eye.

The packaging is unique, I like the window, so you know which lipstick you are using

I’ll admit, I went in with an open mind. The packaging was decent, the formula glided on smoothly, and the colour payoff was strong. They were scentless, pigmented, and easy to apply. On paper, they check a lot of boxes. But once I saw the shades on my lips, it hit me: they looked like drugstore lipsticks. I can’t quite put my finger on whether it was the undertones, the finish, or the way the formula sat on my lips—but something about them just didn’t have that refined, flattering quality that higher-end lipsticks consistently deliver.

my "luxury" lipsticks (partial collection)

There’s a certain richness and elegance to a luxury lipstick that drugstore options simply can’t replicate. It's not just about the price tag—it’s about the finish, the depth of colour, and how it wears throughout the day. And most importantly, how it feels.

Despite Revlon’s claims of a “moisturizing” formula, my lips told a different story. After just two days of wearing their creme lipsticks, my lips started to dry out and became sensitive. I had to slather on lip masks for three days straight to get them back to normal. For comparison, I had been wearing MAC’s Ruby Woo—a matte shade—for over a month with no such issues.

This experience only reaffirmed what I’ve always suspected: drugstore lipsticks can be fun, and yes, budget-friendly, but they can never truly be dupes for high-end products. Influencers often promote drugstore "dupes" as identical alternatives, but as a long-time high-end makeup user, I can confidently say: they're not the same. Drugstore lipsticks will always look and feel like drugstore lipsticks.

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Revlon 720 Fire and Ice

If you're on a budget, here's a quick breakdown:

Pros:

• Scentless

• Easy to apply

• Smooth texture

• Strong pigmentation

Revlon 435 Love that Pink

Cons:

• The colour payoff lacks depth and sophistication

• It can look cheap or flat on the lips

• Dried out my lips (despite “moisturizing” claims)

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light staining, but can be completely removed using Micellar water

Call me picky, but I know what works for my skin and what doesn’t. If you find a drugstore gem that works for you, great! But for me, I’ll be sticking with my high-end staples—for the colour, the comfort, and the confidence they give me.

Until then, Fire and Ice can rest in my drawer as a piece of lipstick history… but not my everyday choice.