Heartleaf Essence Calming Pump
Heartleaf Essence Calming Pump
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, fast-absorbing essence featuring 80.59% Heartleaf (Houttuynia Cordata) extract to calm irritated and sensitive skin. This K-beauty bestseller from Abib gently clears dead skin cells and excess sebum while providing soothing hydration for a balanced, healthy complexion.
Intensive Calming Care
80.59% Heartleaf extract soothes irritation and reduces redness with powerful anti-inflammatory flavonoids like quercetin.
Texture & feel
SENSORYIntensive Calming Care
80.59% Heartleaf extract soothes irritation and reduces redness with powerful anti-inflammatory flavonoids like quercetin.
Balanced Hydration
Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and panthenol deliver multi-layer moisture without heaviness or greasiness.
Gentle Exfoliation
Natural AHA from sugarcane and natural BHA from wintergreen leaf help clear dead skin cells and excess sebum.
Barrier Support
Panthenol and carrageenan strengthen the skin barrier while succinic acid helps maintain optimal pH balance.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFree from retinoids, hydroquinone, high-dose salicylic acid, and chemical sunscreens. Houttuynia Cordata is generally considered safe for topical use during pregnancy.
Free from fermented ingredients, fatty acids, oils, esters, and polysorbates that feed malassezia yeast. Confirmed safe by Skincarisma analysis.
Clinically tested by Global Medical Research Center for acne-prone skin. Comedogenic rating of 1/5 (very low pore-clogging risk).
Hypoallergenic formula tested on sensitive skin. Alcohol-free and fragrance-free in the renewed formula. Always patch test if you have very reactive skin.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSHouttuynia Cordata Extract (Heartleaf) 80.59%Star Ingredient
A flowering plant native to Southeast Asia with powerful anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties. Rich in polyphenolic flavonoids including quercetin, quercitrin, hyperoside, and rutin.
- Anti-inflammatory: Flavonoids reduce skin irritation and calm redness
- Antibacterial: Helps fight acne-causing bacteria (P. acnes)
- Sebum Control: Balances oil production without stripping skin
- UV Protection: Quercitrin helps decrease damage from UVB rays
Sodium HyaluronateProven
The sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid, this powerful humectant can hold up to 1000x its weight in water. Provides deep hydration and plumping effects.
- Hydration: Attracts and binds water molecules to skin
- Plumping: Temporarily reduces appearance of fine lines
- Barrier Support: Helps maintain skin's moisture balance
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5)Proven
A precursor to vitamin B5 that moisturizes, soothes, and supports skin barrier repair. Known for its wound-healing and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Moisturizing: Humectant that helps skin retain water
- Soothing: Reduces irritation from other ingredients
- Barrier Repair: Promotes healthy lipid production
Gaultheria Procumbens (Wintergreen) Leaf ExtractNatural BHA
A natural source of salicylic acid that provides gentle exfoliation and pore-clearing benefits without the irritation of pure BHA.
- Mild Exfoliation: Helps clear pores of debris
- Anti-inflammatory: Calms irritated skin
- Astringent: Helps minimize pore appearance
Mentha Aquatica (Water Mint) ExtractSoothing
A skin-softening, anti-inflammatory ingredient that helps reduce itchiness, cool the skin, and provide mild astringent effects for pore care.
- Cooling: Provides refreshing sensation on skin
- Anti-itch: Reduces discomfort from dry or irritated skin
- Pore Care: Mild astringent properties
21 ingredients
Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Glycerin, Water, Methylpropanediol, Dipropylene Glycol, Glycereth-26, Chondrus Crispus Extract, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugarcane) Extract, Mentha Aquatica Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Gaultheria Procumbens (Wintergreen) Leaf Extract, Butylene Glycol, Hydroxyethyl Urea, Panthenol, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Tromethamine, Caprylyl Glycol, Succinic Acid, 1,2-Hexanediol, Xanthan Gum
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after toner and before heavier serums. Can be used both AM and PM. Layer with other Abib Heartleaf products for enhanced calming effects.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Tone
Start with clean skin. Apply your toner and let it absorb before proceeding.
Dispense 2-3 Pumps
Press the pump dispenser to release a small amount of essence onto your fingertips or palm.
Apply to Face
Spread the essence evenly across your entire face, focusing on areas with redness or irritation.
Pat Gently
Use gentle patting motions with your fingertips to help the essence absorb fully. Wait 30 seconds before applying next product.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have sensitive, easily irritated skin
- You experience redness or inflammation
- You're dealing with acne breakouts or blemishes
- You want a lightweight, non-greasy hydrator
- You need a pregnancy-safe soothing product
- You have oily or combination skin that gets congested
- You're looking for a fungal acne-safe option
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry skin that needs rich, heavy hydration
- You're looking for dramatic anti-aging effects
- You prefer completely fragrance-free products (older versions have essential oils)
- You want instant visible results (this is more maintenance-focused)
- You're allergic to plants in the Saururaceae family
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight gel absorbs instantly without adding shine. Helps control excess sebum while providing necessary hydration.
Provides hydration but may need a richer moisturizer on top. Best used as a hydrating layer in a multi-step routine.
Balances well across different face zones. Hydrates dry areas without overwhelming oily T-zone.
Hypoallergenic formula specifically designed for sensitive skin. Calms irritation and reduces redness effectively.
Non-comedogenic tested, fungal acne safe. Antibacterial properties help fight breakouts while soothing inflammation.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Instant Soothing & Hydration
Skin feels calmer, refreshed, and hydrated. Redness appears visibly reduced within minutes of application.
95% noticed immediate comfortReduced Irritation
Consistent calming effects observed. Skin feels less reactive to environmental stressors. Breakouts may start to calm down.
80% saw reduced rednessImproved Skin Texture
Gentle exfoliation from natural AHA/BHA sources starts showing results. Skin appears brighter and smoother.
70% noticed smoother textureBalanced, Healthier Skin
Long-term use results in more balanced sebum production, fewer breakouts, and overall healthier-looking complexion.
75% reported fewer breakoutsRatings by platform
19K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Effectively calms redness and irritation
- Lightweight, non-sticky texture
- Fast absorption without residue
- Safe for sensitive and acne-prone skin
- Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic tested
- High concentration of star ingredient (80.59%)
- Convenient pump dispenser with travel cap
- Can be layered with other products easily
Criticized
- Small bottle size (50ml) runs out quickly
- Price-per-ml is higher than some alternatives
- Results are maintenance-focused, not dramatic
- May not provide enough moisture for very dry skin
- Older formula versions contain essential oils
- Subtle scent may be noticeable to some
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
77% Heartleaf in a larger 250ml bottle. More watery toner texture vs gel essence. Better value per ml but less concentrated formula.
Uses Centella instead of Heartleaf for soothing. 150ml bottle at lower price. Similar calming benefits but different star ingredient.
Uses Mugwort instead of Heartleaf. More expensive but 160ml bottle. Premium ingredient sourcing from Ganghwa Island.
Same Heartleaf ingredient at lower price. 30ml serum format. Good starter option to test Heartleaf benefits.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEAbib Heartleaf Essence
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep at room temperature (15-25°C). No refrigeration required.
Hygienic pump dispenser with protective cap prevents contamination and oxidation. Allows precise dosing.
Yes - 50ml is under the 100ml TSA liquid limit. Includes travel cap to prevent accidental dispensing.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this essence is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It does not contain any of the ingredients typically flagged as unsafe during pregnancy, such as retinoids, hydroquinone, high-concentration salicylic acid, or chemical sunscreens. The main ingredient, Houttuynia Cordata (Heartleaf) extract, is generally recognized as safe for topical use. However, as with any skincare product during pregnancy, it's always best to consult with your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
Yes, the renewed formula of this essence is fungal acne safe. According to ingredient analysis by Skincarisma, it is free from common fungal acne triggers including fermented ingredients, fatty acids (C11-24), oils, esters, and polysorbates that can feed malassezia yeast. This makes it a suitable option for those dealing with fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis. Note: Some older versions may contain essential oils, so check the ingredient list if you're concerned.
Yes, this essence can generally be used with other actives, but with some considerations. The gentle natural BHA from wintergreen and AHA from sugarcane in this formula are mild enough to layer with most products. When using with retinol, apply the essence first and let it absorb, then follow with retinol. For vitamin C, you can use them together or alternate (vitamin C in AM, essence AM/PM). If you're using strong AHA/BHA products, consider using them on alternate days to avoid over-exfoliation. The soothing properties of Heartleaf actually make this a good companion product to help calm potential irritation from actives.
This essence works excellently for sensitive, acne-prone, oily, and combination skin types. It's specifically formulated and tested for sensitive and acne-prone skin. The lightweight gel texture makes it ideal for oily skin as it won't add greasiness, while the hydrating ingredients still benefit combination skin. Those with dry skin can use it but may need to layer a richer moisturizer on top. It's particularly beneficial for anyone experiencing redness, irritation, or breakouts.
Results vary by individual and concern. Immediate effects include soothing comfort and hydration - most users notice skin feels calmer right away. For redness reduction, expect to see improvement within 1-2 weeks of consistent use. Texture improvements from the gentle exfoliation typically appear around weeks 3-4. For acne and sebum control benefits, allow 4-8 weeks of regular use. This is more of a maintenance product than a quick-fix solution, so patience and consistency are key.
Apply this essence as step 3 in your routine, after cleansing and toning, but before serums and moisturizers. The order should be: Cleanser → Toner → Essence (this product) → Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM only). As a general rule, apply products from thinnest to thickest consistency. This essence can be used both morning and night. If using multiple essences, apply the most watery one first.
No, this essence has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, meaning it has a very low risk of clogging pores. It has been officially non-comedogenic tested by the Global Medical Research Center specifically for acne-prone skin. The lightweight gel formula absorbs quickly without leaving a heavy residue. None of the ingredients are known pore-cloggers, making it safe for those prone to blackheads, whiteheads, or clogged pores.
The Period After Opening (PAO) for this essence is 12 months. Once opened, you should use the product within one year for optimal efficacy and safety. The pump dispenser helps maintain product freshness by minimizing air exposure and contamination. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you notice any changes in smell, color, or texture before the 12 months, discontinue use.
Verdict: The Abib Heartleaf Essence Calming Pump is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a lightweight, effective soothing treatment for sensitive or acne-prone skin. With its impressive 80.59% Heartleaf extract concentration, non-comedogenic testing, and hypoallergenic formula, it delivers on its calming promises. While the small 50ml size and premium price point may give budget-conscious buyers pause, the quality ingredients, elegant formulation, and proven results make it a worthwhile investment. Best suited for those prioritizing skin calming over anti-aging, this K-beauty bestseller earns its spot as an Olive Young award winner.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Methylpropanediol
Solvent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Dipropylene Glycol
Fragrance, Solvent, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 1 |
Glycereth-26
Solvent, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|