CBD is all the rage, with many people praising its ability to relieve pain, cure anxiety, and help treat epilepsy-related seizures. There are also a number of skincare products on the market that contain CBD oil, and claim to deliver benefits. But do they work?

I only get a haircut two to three times a year, because: I’m lazy and my hair grows at a snail’s pace. But every time I do, I always ask my hair stylist for tips on choosing a shampoo and conditioner that will make my hair healthier and less frizzy. One stylist recommended Aveeno shampoo, which is something I still include in my rotation. The other day, I asked my hair stylist for her thoughts, and she recommended shopping for “natural” hair care products at Whole Foods…

I write about a good number of products that have disappointed me—either because they irritated my skin, led to breakouts, or just didn’t seem to be doing much for me at all. But because I was raised by immigrant parents who know what it’s like to go without such luxuries, I try not to automatically dispose of products before trying to think of a way to upcycle it. Without further ado, I’d like to share a few of my most recent attempts to give disappointing products a new lease…