Dr. Althea Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm Review

I tend to avoid cleansing balms because I hate the oiliness and the hassle of cleaning off all the greasiness afterward. But Dr. Althea seems to have fixed that problem with their Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm.

The balm emulsifies almost immediately upon contact with water, which solves my biggest “ick” with cleansing balms in general. It glides and melts onto the skin, and once water is added, it emulsifies and rinses away without leaving that greasy residue behind.

cleansing balm

What it is:

According to Dr. Althea, this cleansing balm is formulated with only 14 essential natural ingredients and is designed to provide a gentle cleansing experience, particularly for sensitive skin.

It is enriched with Madecassoside and plant-based oils to cleanse while keeping the skin soft and hydrated.

Benefits:

• Powerful yet gentle cleansing

• Hydrating and nourishing finish

• Hygienic grinding balm design

The product is also designed to remove sunscreen, makeup, and even waterproof products with a small amount.

My experience

Unlike most cleansing balms I've tried, I wouldn't consider this a deep-cleaning cleansing balm. Depending on your needs and expectations, this could either be a positive or a negative.

It does a good enough job, but it definitely isn't as powerful or "deep-cleaning" as I expected. However, if you have sensitive skin and want a mild and gentle cleansing balm that helps calm redness and protect your skin barrier, this could be ideal.

I appreciated that they added Madecassoside and plant-based oils to help keep the skin hydrated, although I found the moisturizing effect to be a bit too light for my liking. I also really appreciate that there is zero fragrance, which makes it even more appealing for people with sensitive skin.

I tried their recommended "half turn" for melting sunscreen and a "full turn" for melting and removing makeup. After some trial and error, I found that the full turn works best for me. The half turn simply isn't enough to cover my whole face, let alone provide enough balm to properly massage the skin and melt away sunscreen, makeup, and everything else sitting on my face.

The grinding design

One of the things I really like about this cleansing balm is the innovative and hygienic grinding design. It prevents the need for repeatedly dipping your fingers into the container, which makes it feel much cleaner and more hygienic than traditional cleansing balms.

However, there is one frustrating problem: there is always some product left behind on the plate. No matter how hard I try to scoop it out with my fingers, it just won't budge! 😩

It makes me feel like I'm constantly wasting a little bit of product, which is frustrating when cleansing balms aren't exactly cheap.

The packaging

I'm also not entirely sure why they opted for a solid green container. While it looks nice, it makes it impossible to see how much product is left inside.

By the time I realize I'm running out, it's already too late!

I also struggled with the container at first because I assumed it was a screw-top or twist-style container. It isn't — it's simply a lid that clips into place.

The lid is easy to open and close, but it moves around quite easily and doesn't feel particularly tight. Whether that's a pro or a con probably depends on how much you hate fiddling with lids versus how much a loose lid annoys you. 😂

Overall thoughts

This is definitely not the cleansing balm I would reach for when I want a deep, heavy-duty cleanse. But that isn't necessarily a bad thing.

What I like most is how different it feels from traditional cleansing balms. It melts beautifully, emulsifies quickly with water, leaves behind zero greasy residue, and doesn't have any fragrance. For someone like me who normally avoids cleansing balms because of their oily texture, that's a pretty big win.

The formula is gentle and comfortable, and I can see why someone with sensitive skin might really appreciate it. My biggest complaints are that the cleansing power is a little too mild for me, the moisturizing effect isn't as substantial as I expected, and the grinding design still leaves some product behind.

Conclusion

Overall, Dr. Althea's Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm is an interesting take on the traditional cleansing balm. It solves one of my biggest complaints — that greasy, oily feeling — and the hygienic grinding design is genuinely innovative.

I don't think it's the best choice if you're looking for an intense, deep-cleaning balm, but if you want something gentle, fragrance-free, easy to emulsify, and comfortable on sensitive skin, this is worth considering.

For me, it's a good cleansing balm, but not a perfect one. I love what Dr. Althea was trying to accomplish, and I especially appreciate how cleanly it rinses away. I just wish the cleansing power was a little stronger and the packaging was a little more practical.

Score: 7.8/10
Website: https://doctoraltheaglobal.com/products/pure-grinding-cleansing-balm?srsltid=AfmBOoqvTommIBhuBrLvv1rxilb7rJEO4z-lAOXp0XcIjPFG7aH5ZdX2

SEPHORA COLLECTION Oil Infusion Hydrating Lip Oil Cherry review

Before I begin this review, I want to mention how flawed and dumb the design of the packaging is! It always tips over and knocks everything on my desk onto the floor, creating a huge mess! This happens at least once or twice a week!

Whoever thought it was a great idea to make the base too small, the container too heavy, and the shape too rounded… 🤦🏻‍♀️

Whoever came up with this design needs to be sued!! 😂

The product, on the other hand, is actually good!

I chose the Cherry shade, which is a sheer red. It has a nice, soft scent that doesn't linger, and it gives my lips a subtle glossy tint without being overly sticky. I also really like using it on top of lipstick because it enhances the colour and gives my lips that slightly glossy, polished look.

What surprised me is that, unlike a lot of lip glosses I've used, this one doesn't leave my lips feeling dry after wearing it. It gives me the glossy effect without that uncomfortable, sticky feeling I sometimes get from traditional lip glosses.

The only downside is that the shine doesn't last very long — it disappears pretty much immediately after eating or drinking, so I do find myself reapplying it throughout the day.

A lot of people have compared this to Clarins' Lip Comfort Oil, but having used both, I think they're actually quite different.

Clarins is thicker and feels more substantial on the lips. It's also much more of a self-contained product that I can wear on its own. This one, on the other hand, works really well on top of lipstick. I think of it more as a finishing product that adds a little shine and tint rather than something I would necessarily wear by itself.

The applicator

The applicator is a thin paddle, and it gives me just enough product to cover about half of my lips at a time. I actually really like this because it gives me good control over how much product I use. I never feel like I'm accidentally putting on too much.

Pros:

• Sheer cherry-red tint
• Soft, pleasant scent that doesn't linger
• Adds a subtle glossy finish
• Works really well over lipstick
• Not overly sticky
• Doesn't leave my lips feeling dry
• Paddle applicator gives good control
• Easy to apply without overusing the product

Cons:

• THE PACKAGING. >___<
• The container tips over way too easily
• The small base + heavy, rounded container is a terrible combination
• Not as versatile as Clarins' Lip Comfort Oil
• Sheer colour may not be enough for people looking for a more noticeable tint

I've had quite a few bad experiences with Sephora-branded products, so I'm actually really glad this isn't one of them!

Well… except for that cursed container. 😑

The product itself is good. The packaging, however, is a completely different story. 😂

Score: 8.5/10
Website: https://www.sephora.com/product/oil-infusion-hydrating-lip-oil-dragon-fruit-P518068?country_switch=ca&skuId=2882843&om_mmc=ppc-GG_2024543160_70610901974_pla-420315098113_2882843_354815103824_9000895_c&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=2024543160&gbraid=0AAAAADnIXb3bCW9bDDDCyCKwNIDqBTFpk&gclid=CjwKCAjwhZDUBhBGEiwAbi5bjueJrPyuKnZGDqVIq-vIZ6e7CdaiVkF0Cbslqa5gADNYSlAI9CaGaxoCAXEQAvD_BwE

The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Foaming Cleanser review

 

(I'm having issues with Airdrop, so I'm not able to upload any pictures T___T please excuse the lack of images and pictures in this post)

The Face Shop was one of the first Korean skincare brands I ever used, and their products have always proven effective for me. Over the years, I’ve gravitated toward other brands, so seeing their products at my local Costco reminded me of how much I used to like them.

I was looking for a facial cleanser, and the timing was perfect — this one immediately caught my eye. I’ve always liked rice-based skincare products, so this was an instant “yes.”

After doing some research, I discovered that The Face Shop launched this cleanser back in 2006 — that’s 20 years ago! In a highly competitive skincare market, it’s already impressive for a product to last even 5 years (I still mourn some of the discontinued Korean products I’ve loved), but this cleanser didn’t just last… it lasted 20 years. That definitely says something about its effectiveness and loyal fan base.

What’s even more impressive is that they’ve continued to improve it. Despite being a best-seller, this foaming cleanser was reformulated to be free of sulphates, artificial dyes, cocamide MEA, glyoxal, and silicone.

What makes it special:

• Made with Yeoju rice from Korea, fermented to maximize potency and efficacy
• Gentle whipped, creamy texture that lathers into a dense foam, effectively removing dirt, impurities, and sebum without stripping the skin
• Contains vitamin-rich rice water and white yeast from hibiscus, which provides mild lactic acid for brightening and barrier care
• Enriched with ceramides to help moisturize and restore the skin barrier
• Soapwort extract acts as a natural foaming agent while providing antioxidant benefits
• Suitable for daily use (morning and evening)
• Made in Korea

(image of consistency of cleanser will be placed here)

Pros:

• Easy to use
• Leaves a semi–squeaky clean feeling without fully stripping the skin
• No scent
• Skin condition has noticeably improved (not sure about brightening, but my skin feels much softer)

Cons:

• Stings the eyes >__<
• The foam is quite “thirsty” — I often need to add more water to keep it from getting too thick while cleansing
• Didn’t notice any significant brightening effects (after over 2 months of use)

Conclusion:

Overall, this cleanser lives up to its long-standing reputation. It’s gentle, effective, and reliable — the kind of product that quietly does its job well without being overly flashy. While it didn’t deliver noticeable brightening results for me, it significantly improved my skin’s softness and overall condition. For a well-formulated, everyday cleanser with a proven track record, this is definitely one I’m happy to keep in my routine.

Score: 9.0/10
Website: no website

Pond's Fresh Hydration Hyaluronic Acid Vitamin E & B3 review

Costco's bulk deal

I’ve seen Pond’s products everywhere for as long as I can remember. I still have this vivid memory of being seven years old at Honest Ed’s in Toronto, pointing at a jar of Pond’s Cold Cream and asking my mom what it was. But despite seeing the brand all around me — on shelves, in ads, in random stores — I’ve never actually used any Pond’s products in my life. No one in my family or friend circles uses them either, so it’s always been one of those brands I recognize… but have zero personal experience with.

packaging

That changed when I spotted the Pond’s Fresh Hydration Hyaluronic Acid + Vitamin E & B3 gel moisturizer at Costco. On Amazon, one 3.4 oz (96.4 g) jar costs $19.25 — but Costco had three jars for $17.99. A deal like that? I couldn’t resist. 😅

After doing some quick Googling, I discovered people calling it a “dupe” for Clinique’s Moisture Surge Gel — which is about four times the price. If you’ve been here long enough, you already know how I feel about dupes… so yes, I was skeptical.

---

You can see the big hollow hole before I even opened the product

🧴 First Impressions

• flimsy plastic container

• strong scent (reminds me of hair conditioner)

• skin absorbed it immediately

• moisturizes, but causes random bumps

• The jar wasn’t filled completely (and the plastic bends easily)

There's not a lot of product in the jar

When I opened the jar, the product looked a bit… sad. Not fully filled, and the cheap, bendable plastic didn’t add confidence. The gel itself was firm, almost “bouncy,” which made the hollow indent inside even more noticeable.

The scent is very strong — not bad, but definitely bold. To me, it had a base note that reminded me slightly of sunscreen mixed with shampoo or hair conditioner. Some people might enjoy it, but for me, it felt overwhelming.

Texture-wise, it reminded me of Neutrogena Hydro Boost, but firmer and with a more silicone-like slip. The intensity of the scent is on par with Hydro Boost as well — not the same smell, but equally pungent.

---

Pond's Fresh Hydration

💧 Hydration Performance

It does moisturize — but only on already healthy skin. On dry, dehydrated, or slightly irritated skin, it didn’t do very much. It claims 24-hour hydration, but realistically… I had to reapply every 5–6 hours.

---

The Science behind hydration

⚠️ The Dealbreaker: Random Bumps

This is where things went downhill.

After a few uses, I started noticing random bumps on my nose and forehead — areas where I never get bumps. The more consistently I used it, the more bumps appeared. I’m not sure if I’m reacting to an ingredient or the formula as a whole, but my skin definitely did not like something in here.

I really wanted to love this — it looked promising, affordable, and had great ingredients on paper — but unfortunately, it didn’t work out for me at all.

---

product and packaging

⭐ Final Thoughts + Score

Pond’s Fresh Hydration has a nice texture and provides light moisture, but the strong scent, flimsy packaging, and unexpected breakouts make it a no for me. If your skin is extremely tolerant and you want something inexpensive, it might work… but I personally won’t be repurchasing.

Score: 3/10 (Moisturizes, but gave me random bumps 👎🏻)
Website: https://ponds.us/en-ca/products/hyaluronic-acid-vitamin-e-b3-gel-moisturizer

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.

---

🍃 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.

---

🧖‍♀️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.

---

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.

---

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.

---

⭐ 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

Biodance Bio-Collagen - Real Deep Mask review

I Finally Tried the Viral Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask!

I know I’m super late to the game, but I finally got my hands on the super viral Korean facial mask—and I just had to share my thoughts.

In case you need a refresher, this is the mask that went viral for turning transparent the longer you wear it. You’re supposed to keep it on for 3–4 hours—or even overnight! Unlike most sheet masks that go viral for their ingredients, this one took off because of its unique experience.

But beyond the novelty, I was curious: does it actually do anything? Here’s my experience.

🧖‍♀️ What It Claims to Do

The Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask is a hydrogel mask packed with serious skincare benefits:

• Ultra-Low Molecular Collagen for deep firming and enhanced elasticity
• Oligo-Hyaluronic Acid for long-lasting hydration that penetrates deeper than regular hyaluronic acid
• Probiotics (Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate) to reduce fine lines and strengthen the skin barrier
• Niacinamide to brighten and refine texture
• Fragrance-Free & Hypoallergenic – perfect for sensitive skin

You can use it two ways:

• Overnight – apply it at the end of your routine and sleep with it on (only if you can sleep on your back!)
• Daytime – apply after toner or serum and wear for 3–4 hours until the mask turns transparent

Pro tip: Repurpose the cut-out pieces from the eyes and mouth—apply them to your neck or under-eye area for bonus hydration!

after 2.5 hours

I tried to smile but couldn't... the mask got really tight. You can also see how bits of it were stretched so much that they ripped a bit.

💭 My First Impressions

• It ripped almost immediately when I was taking it out of the packaging—so handle with care!
• Unscented, which I appreciate
• It stings a bit on broken skin, but that sensation fades quickly—and those areas actually felt more hydrated after
• You can literally see where your skin is dehydrated: those areas turn transparent first (for me, it was around my nose and mouth)
• Despite some reviews, I didn’t find it uncomfortable—I actually fell asleep during the first 2 hours of wearing it!
• Don’t use your phone while wearing this—it can slide around with movement or blinking, and if your phone slips… well, it’s not a fun wake-up call
• Strengthening Skin: One thing I noticed that really surprised me was how strong and resilient my skin felt after just one use — it felt like my skin barrier had been reinforced, especially in areas that normally feel a bit raw or fragile.

other info

🛏 Best Way to Use It

To keep the mask in place, lie flat on your back—especially for the first two hours. I tried sitting and standing, and the mask kept slipping. Sleeping on your side is also a no-go unless you want it to shift or fall off completely.

Some people see transparent blotches within the first hour, but for me, they didn’t appear until about 1 hour and 45 minutes in.

after 3 hours

🤔 Final Thoughts

This mask was definitely more than just a gimmick. It gave me:

• Deep hydration
• A visible look at my dehydrated areas
• Firmer, smoother-feeling skin afterward
• Improves and strengthens the skin barrier
• Skin feels good after using

But I did have a couple of frustrations:

❌ Cons:

• Tears very easily, both during application and while wearing
• Can really only be used while lying down (preferably flat on your back)

That being said, one of my biggest frustrations with facial masks like these is how short their product life cycles are. Just when I get attached to a formula and start incorporating it into my routine, it gets discontinued. It’s not because the product isn’t good—often, it’s because companies quickly move on to the next trend or formula, especially in the fast-paced K-beauty world. I’ve never fully understood why this happens, but it makes it hard to stick with what works.

All in all, I can see why this mask went viral—and while it’s not perfect, I’d consider using it again (with very gentle hands!). Would I sleep in it regularly? Probably not, unless I’m totally exhausted and planning to stay in one position all night 😅

What the discarded mask looks like... soft plastic material

🌙 Post-Mask Results & Final Thoughts

While the effects weren’t as dramatic as some influencers hyped them up to be, I still genuinely enjoyed using this mask. What stood out to me was how much stronger and more resilient my skin felt after one use — as if my barrier had gotten a little boost. After removing it, my skin felt noticeably hydrated, smooth, and calm—especially in sensitive or dry patches. The glow wasn’t just temporary either; the results lasted well into the next day, which pleasantly surprised me.

That said, this is definitely on the luxury side of sheet masks. At around $100 for 24 masks, it’s significantly pricier than many drugstore options that go for $1–2 each. But if you’re looking for a unique masking experience with visible hydration and skin-calming benefits—and don’t mind lying completely still—this might be worth trying.

Would I repurchase? Yes — despite the price, the results were worth it for me. My skin felt moisturized, soothed, and noticeably smoother. The calming and hydrating effects lasted well into the next day, and my skin genuinely looked healthier.

In fact, I find myself craving to use this mask again and again because of how good my skin feels afterward. It’s become something I look forward to in my routine — though I try to limit myself, or I might just end up using it daily!

score: 9.5/10
website: https://biodance.com/products/biodance-bio-collagen-real-deep-mask

Candle Warmer/Candle Lamp review

Candle warmer

After much consideration and research, I finally invested in a Candle Warmer/Candle Lamp, and I’m really enjoying it! I’m especially thankful that I found one I like during this season of great sales—because who doesn’t love a good deal? 😄

Here’s my take on the pros and cons:

Pros:

• No soot: Unlike traditional candle burning, the warmer eliminates black soot buildup, keeping the air and candle jars clean.
• No smoke or soot from extinguishing the candle ensures a cleaner and more pleasant experience.
• Enhanced fragrance: The warmer melts the candle evenly, releasing a stronger and more consistent aroma throughout the room.
• Quiet: It’s completely quiet—there are no crackling wicks or background noise, making it perfect for peaceful relaxation.
• Timer feature: This prevents over-melting your candle and helps conserve its lifespan. (mine's come with 2hour, 4hours and 8hour settings)
• Control over melting speed: With adjustable light intensity, you can control how fast or slow you want the candle to melt. (mine's has 3 settings)
• Safe and fire-free: No flames mean no worries about fire hazards! You can enjoy the ambiance of your candle without the risks of working with an open flame.
• Heats evenly—unlike candles that rely on properly placed wicks, warmers melt the wax evenly. Say goodbye to candle tunnelling!

Cons:

• No "burnt candle" scent: If you love the slightly smoky scent that comes from burning candles, this might feel like a missing piece.
• No sound: While the quiet operation is a pro for some, others may miss the ambient crackling sound of a candle wick burning.
• Requires a container to hold the wax—standalone candles can drip wax onto the base without one.
• Not ideal for every candle type: Some candles with a lower concentration of fragrance oils might not release much scent when melted on a warmer. This could lead to a less aromatic payoff.
• Requires a power source: Unlike traditional candles, which can be placed anywhere, a candle warmer needs to be plugged in, limiting where it can be used.
• Limited ambiance: While it’s great for releasing fragrance, a candle warmer lacks the warm, flickering glow of a lit candle that creates a cozy atmosphere.

---

Candle warmers don't burn the wick, I used a pre burned candle here

What to Look for in a Candle Warmer/Lamp

After extensive research, I realized that not all candle warmers are created equal. There are several types out there, and selecting the right one can be a bit overwhelming. Based on my experience, here are the key features I think are worth considering:

1. Timer Feature:
   Look for a lamp with a built-in timer to prevent over-melting your candle. It ensures you don’t waste wax and allows you to safely “set it and forget it.”

2. Adjustable Height:
   This is especially useful to accommodate candles of varying sizes—whether it’s a large jar candle or a smaller one.

3. Sturdy Base:
   Stability is key! A sturdy base will prevent your candle from toppling over and causing potential accidents. Candle Warmers will liquify your wax, so it is extremely important to have one that is stable, solid and well-built.

4. Adjustable Light Intensity:
   Having control over the strength of the light allows you to customize how much of the candle you want to melt, giving you the ability to stretch the candle's lifespan and adjust the fragrance release.

5. High-Quality Materials:
   Opt for a warmer made from glass, wood, or metal. These materials are safer as they don’t overheat or pose fire risks like some plastic components might.

---

Investing in a Candle Warmer/Candle Lamp has genuinely been a game-changer for how I enjoy my candles. While there are a couple of small trade-offs, the benefits far outweigh them, especially if you value cleaner air, stronger scents, and a more controlled way to enjoy your candles.

If you’re a candle lover like me, I highly recommend exploring your options and finding one that works for you! You just might fall in love with the experience too. 😊

Score: 10/10
Website: Amazon has the best selection available.

Rohto Cooling Eye Drops Max Strength review

 

Aside from dry skin, our dry weather makes my eyes extremely dry and red. I wanted to get Lumify eye drops but they were sold out everywhere!! 😢 I went on iHerb and found these Rohto Cooling Eye Drops Max Strength Maximum Redness relief. 

Rohto is a multinational company based in Japan (specifically Osaka) and throughout the years, their products have been good, so I was hopeful these eyedrops would be good.

I have used Rohto eyedrops for years (in Japan), and I am glad they are available in North America. They were good, but I always felt they needed to be stronger... so I wanted to see what this Max Strength would be like.

These eye drops do two things: Redness relief and lubricate the eyes.

I got these to see if they work as well as Lumify eye drops, and also since they are almost half the price, if they are as effective, I would have found a good product.

thoughts and impressions:

• slightly minty sensation (but wasn't irritating)
• easy to control the amount of drops
• I like the safety feature on the lid
• didn't have an immediate effect
• this formula easily crystallizes, please make sure there aren't any "salt" disposits on the applicator before dispensing the drops in your eyes (I did once and it hurt my eye!!)

Mint/Cooling effect:

First, the level of the mint cooling effect is not comparable to the Japanese version. This can be a good or bad thing depending on your preferences, if you have sensitive eyes, the cooling level might be tolerable for you. However, if you are looking for that burst of refreshing sensation, this might not satisfy your needs.

packaging and lid's safety feature:
I appreciated the ergonomic shape of the container as it allowed my fingers to properly grasp it. The firmness of the container also allows me to properly dispense the needed amount of eye drops. I also really liked the lid's safety feature (to remove the lid, you need to push down and twist open). It addresses the common issue of accidental spillage and contamination, especially when carrying the eyedrops in a purse.

effectiveness of the product:
While the product is effective, it does not deliver an immediate outcome as claimed. To reduce redness, one must apply the product and wait for at least 30 minutes for noticeable results. However, if the goal is to lubricate and moisten the eyes, the effects are nearly immediate and the effectiveness lasts for up to 8 hours.

Score: 8/10
Website: https://rohtoeyedrops.com/products/rohto-max-strength-redness-relief-eye-drops

McDonald's McRib short review

McRib

Pork is hardly ever my first choice of meat. I have always missed the McRib limited-time offering, so I could never understand the craze over it. 

After a 10-year hiatus, the McRib finally made its way back to Toronto, and this time, I can finally taste it! (And it is good 👍 )

impressions:

• cute packaging ❤️ 
• bigger than I thought it would be
• lots of BBQ sauce
• only 5 ingredients: the bread, barbeque sauce, raw onions, rib steak (without the bones, of course),  and the pickles.
• it is super tender, smooth ribby, meaty and delicious

it's not like I haven't seen it in pictures, but it definitely looked bigger than I thought it would be. 

One of the reasons why pork is hardly my first choice of meat is because it is tougher and "rougher" than others, but McRib's pork is tender, soft and smooth.

The combination works so well. It is simple, but they all complement each other so well :D

score: 10/10
website: https://www.mcdonalds.com/us/en-us/product/mcrib.html

Twinings Prince of Wales pure black tea review

During my trip to New Orleans, I came across this tea. This is the first I have heard of it. I searched for it online and learned it is only available in the US rather than Canada. This was strange for me because Canada, as a Commonwealth, I would expect this tea to be a bit more popular, so I did some digging. 

It turns out that this tea was crafted and created by Twinings for King Edward VIII in 1921, back when he held the title of the Prince of Wales.

However, in light of the historical context, considering King Edward VIII's later actions leading to his abdication, it's not surprising that this association could be seen as taboo and saddening and therefore, not available in a country as close to the UK as Canada.

It is sad to hear that, allegedly, we aren't able to enjoy this tea, because of its connection to a controversial chapter in British/English history. 

Prince of Wales Tea

Before I share my impressions, it's worth noting that this tea is a special blend that brings together tea leaves from the Jiangxi, Anhui, and Yunnan provinces in China. These leaves were carefully chosen from the high altitudes and mountainous regions of these provinces. The advantage of these elevated terrains is that the mountain mists act as a natural shield, protecting the tea bushes from excessive sunlight. This, in turn, allows the tea leaves and buds to develop optimally.

Prince of Wales tea

These tea leaves are artfully combined with tea leaves sourced from Hunan. (Hunan province is famous for its Pu'er tea leaves).

The tea's aromatic notes have a slight woodiness to them.

thoughts and impressions:

• a distinct Chinese tea flavour!
• it is exceptionally smooth and velvety
• accommodates the addition of milk.
• has a brownish-red colour
• delicate mild taste
• hints of a woody taste

It is evident that this black tea had incorporated Chinese tea leaves into the blend, but unlike most Chinese teas it has an incredibly smooth and velvety texture. The thoughtfully crafted blend allows for the addition of milk without compromising the taste. 

I'm very fortunate to be able to purchase this online (via iHerb). It's truly a pleasure to savor this smooth Chinese tea blend.

Score: 10/10

Website: https://twiningsusa.com/products/prince-of-wales

Bioderma Hydrabio Serum review

NOTE: Before the review, I wanted to mention that this review was written on January 15, 2018... I have gone through a few bottles since (which proves this is a good product and it works really well for me)... I found this review sitting at the bottom of my drafts and realized I forgot to publish it... so here it is! :D

Hey, my sweeties!

I found an amazing serum and I wanted to share it with you! I found this at my local drug store but I'm sure it is available in most drug stores because of Bioderma's popularity (around the world) and this is one of their main products. 

Some info about the product:

• Made in France
• 40 ml (it is only available in one size)
• approximately ¥3200 JPY (in 2018) $43.00 CAD before taxes (in 2023) thanks to inflation 😡 

This is a Moisturising concentrate serum that is suitable for very dehydrated sensitive skin. 

However, that being said, I have noticed if I apply more and too often, it does worse than it does good. (weird bumps will form when I use this more than the daily recommended 1-2 times). 

The directions are to apply to the face and neck in the morning and/or evening after cleansing and using a toner. Use alone or before applying a Hydrabio skin care product. 

I find much joy in using this pump... it gives you an exact amount for your face :D I like how it has a substantial touch which gives it a more controlled 

I use it with my HadaCrie. This not only helps my skin absorb more, but it multiplies the effectiveness and benefits of this serum.

impressions:

• it feels like my skin has drunk water
• quenches my skin
• soft subtle aroma that doesn't linger
• glides onto my skin and is absorbed well
• unlike most serums, it feels slightly thicker (between a moisturizer and serum)
• it is thicker but lightweight at the same time

They say that time will tell (this is me writing this portion in 2023) and this serum has lived up to its hype (or lack thereof). 

I'm glad that Bioderma is as popular as it is, and I can find this brand/product in most drugstores I have visited around the world :).

This product always quenches my skin and leaves it feeling moist and hydrated, the best way to put it is that it makes my skin feel like it has drunk lots of water.

There is a slightly silky and stickiness when you first apply the product on your skin but your skin will immediately absorb it and your skin should be velvety and moist. If there is residue, it means you have applied too much and bumps might develop overnight. SO... DO.NOT.APPLY.TOO.MUCH.PRODUCT!

score: 8.5/10

website: https://www.bioderma.ca/en/all-products/hydrabio/serum

Sharpie S-Gel Pens review

 

It has been almost a year since I've had these and I think I'm ready to give a review.

Sharpie S Gel pens were heavily advertised across Youtube and other social media platforms. It piqued my interest because Sharpie, the permanent marker, has always been one of my favourite writing tools, whether it was to create posters or write on parcels or to even take notes, Sharpie markers have been with me through thick and thin.

I was quite excited to hear that they have gel pens available and I really wanted to get them. I was very hopeful. 

very sleek design

These were advertised as:

• having vibrant colours (black, red and blue)
• smooth writing

They claim:

experience a high-performance gel pen

Features:

• Contour rubber grip (for a comfortable writing experinece0
• always vivid writing (with intensely bold ink colours)
• no smear, no bleed technology (for an exceptional writing experience

They were sold out everywhere! I finally stumbled upon a Walmart and they had one pack of these left! 

writing (please excuse my messy writing) lines look nice... writing not so...

These are medium with a 0.7mm point tip.

(They also come in Fine 0.5mm and Bold 1.0mm)

writing bled through pages... (Muji notebook)

impressions:

• smooth but felt a bit runny
• has a slight sharpie scent (like the marker but very toned down)
• it is smooth but not on all paper
• it leaks through paper
• it is smear proof (and quick dry)
• it is not waterproof

I really liked how they felt in my hands. The rubber grip made it easy to hold the pen and the plastic body made me wonder whether it was metal or plastic. It has a nice matte finish.

I was also disappointed that it isn't smooth on all papers. It leaked through my Muji notebooks (Muji notebooks have higher quality paper than normal loose-leaf lined paper). 

random doodling... (disclaimer: I can't draw!)

Drawing:

It didn't take long for me to realize that these pens were made for drawing more than writing. For drawing and doodling, they do a nice job (whether you are drawing lines or circles) but when you are writing, I found it tough to write nicely.  The ink colour is definitely very bold and vibrant. I haven't had the chance to use blue and red (once I get to test them out, I'll leave an update here).

I had a drop of water on my desk and this 2 week old writing smudged :(

The ink/gel was a bit runny and made it hard to write letters (most of my writing ended up looking like cartoon, sans comic writing). 

highlighter and smear test

When they claim that their key feature is smooth and consistent writing, it isn't for words... it is for drawings... for drawings, it was definitely a smooth and consistent experience. 

Overall, I liked how bold and saturated the ink colour was. I like that it was smooth and vibrant. However, I was not impressed by the ink bleeding through my pages and not being permanent. I was disappointed to see how the ink smudged after being in contact with a small drop of water. For a Sharpie product, I would expect the writing to be permanent. 

I would continue to use this for drawing and doodling but there are much better options for writing.

Score: 7.8/10
Website: https://www.sharpie.com/pens/gel-pens/sharpie-s-gel-medium-point-0.7mm/SAP_2096134.html