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.

Reasons to love facial mists: more than just a trend

 

a partial collection of facial mists

Contrary to popular belief, facial mists are a lot more useful and hydrating than most people think.

My love for facial mists runs deep. Ever since I was introduced to them during a trip to Hong Kong back in 2008 (back when the Evian water spray was all the rage), I’ve been hooked. It was love at first spritz. From that moment on, anytime my skin felt even the slightest bit dry, I found myself reaching for one. Over the years, they’ve become one of the most versatile and comforting parts of my skincare routine.

Evian facial mist

What I’ve learned is that not all facial mists are created equal, and that’s actually a good thing. Some are infused with vitamin C to brighten dull skin, others contain serum-like ingredients to treat dehydration or irritation, and a few are designed to help combat blue light exposure from screens. While their added benefits can vary, all facial mists share one thing in common: they deliver an immediate layer of hydration that feels both refreshing and nourishing.

Every facial mist has its own benefits :)

Here’s why I keep going back to them:

• Lightweight and fast-absorbing – Facial mists are incredibly light and sink into the skin quickly without feeling heavy or greasy.

• Easy to integrate into any routine – Whether it’s morning or night, pre- or post-makeup, they’re easy to slot into any skincare step.

• Makeup-friendly – One of the best things is that they can be sprayed over makeup to freshen up your look without disturbing anything underneath.

• Extra hydration boost – They give your skin that extra “moisture ump” when it needs a quick quench—especially helpful in dry climates or air-conditioned environments.

• Targeted benefits – Many mists now offer targeted solutions like antioxidant protection, barrier repair, or skin-soothing ingredients.

That being said, one of my biggest frustrations with facial mists and skincare in general is the short product cycles they tend to have. Just when I find one I really love and incorporate it into my routine, it gets discontinued.

It’s not that the product isn’t good; in fact, it is quite the opposite. Many of these mists are genuinely effective, well-formulated, and even gain loyal followings. But for some reason, companies tend to quietly pull them off the shelves. Whether it’s due to rebranding, reformulation, or shifting marketing priorities, it’s incredibly disappointing for long-time users. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve had to start from scratch, trying to find a replacement for a mist I had finally grown attached to.

It makes maintaining a consistent routine difficult when your staples are constantly disappearing. And in a market that thrives on novelty and trends, tried-and-true formulas often don’t get the shelf life they deserve.

Still, despite the ups and downs, facial mists remain one of my favourite skincare steps. Don’t underestimate the power of a good mist—it might seem simple, but your skin will thank you.

Click here to see a list of facial mists I have used and loved in the past.

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

GoodNotes app review rant

GoodNotes used to be the gold standard of digital note-taking apps—a classic case of “if it ain't broke, don’t fix it.” Before its AI-heavy overhaul, it was one of the most popular and reliable note-taking tools out there. It was intuitive, well-designed, and honestly, I really enjoyed using it. At one point, I even considered purchasing the full version with a one-time payment.

(*Click here to see my notetaking pages done on GoodNotes)

Then came the “big” update.

They scrapped the one-time purchase model and replaced it with a subscription system. Not only that, but they added multiple confusing version tiers and introduced flashy features like a predictive AI tool and a built-in math solver. While these features might sound impressive on paper, they completely changed the app’s user experience, for the worse.

GoodNotes logo

Instead of feeling upgraded, I felt overwhelmed. There were too many options and versions to choose from, and the once-simple interface became cluttered. My immediate thought? WTF is going on? And more importantly, why isn’t there a lifetime purchase option anymore? The new features felt more like gimmicks than genuine improvements.

Ever since that major update, I haven’t touched the app once. They took something that was simple, efficient, and beautifully designed—and turned it into a bloated mess.

I thought I had found the perfect note-taking app... turns out, I haven’t. 😞

Back to searching for something simple yet efficient—a space where I can freely squeeze out my creative juices without battling unnecessary features and subscriptions.
Until then, let me quietly lament the death of what GoodNotes once was.

So, goodbye GoodNotes. You had potential, but sometimes, less really is more.

RIP GoodNotes.

(Click here to see my notetaking pages done on GoodNotes)

Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson (1963 to 1968)

Happy Canada Day! 🇨🇦

Canadian Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson (1963 to 1968)

Today, I want to highlight one of my favourite Canadian Prime Ministers—Lester B. Pearson. If his name sounds familiar, it might be because Toronto’s international airport is named after him—and rightfully so!

Pearson's contributions to Canada were not only impactful but also enduring. When people think of Canada today, many associate us with universal healthcare, a strong social safety net, peacekeeping, and our iconic red and white maple leaf flag. Did you know that we can thank Lester B. Pearson for all of this?

Serving as Prime Minister from 1963 to 1968, Pearson led with diplomacy, vision, and pragmatism. His government introduced universal health care, the Canada Pension Plan, and student loan programs—all of which continue to shape the lives of Canadians today. Under his leadership, Canada also officially adopted the Maple Leaf flag in 1965, giving us a bold and unifying national symbol.

But his influence wasn’t just domestic. Before becoming Prime Minister, Pearson earned international recognition as a skilled diplomat. In fact, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1957 for organizing the first United Nations peacekeeping force, helping to de-escalate the Suez Crisis. His efforts laid the foundation for Canada’s long-standing reputation as a peacekeeping nation.

Lester B. Pearson was a visionary who modernized Canada and helped shape the compassionate, inclusive identity we’re known for today. On this Canada Day, I’m especially grateful for his legacy.

🍁 Thank you, Mr. Pearson, for helping build the Canada we’re so proud to celebrate today! 🍁

Diet Coke isn't just Coke without sugar

I’ve started noticing Diet Coke more—not because of its iconic silver can, but because of an unexpected source: President Trump. During his diplomatic trip to Saudi Arabia, it was widely reported that he preferred Diet Coke over coffee. That odd detail stuck with me, and eventually, my curiosity got the better of me.

Not Just a Sugar-Free Coke

Like many people, I had always assumed Diet Coke was simply regular Coca-Cola with the sugar swapped for artificial sweeteners. But after doing a bit of research, I discovered that Diet Coke is actually based on an entirely different formula. It isn’t a sugar-free version of Coca-Cola—it’s its own drink altogether.

diet coke

The Real Origin: TaB

Diet Coke’s roots trace back to TaB, Coca-Cola’s first diet soda released in the 1960s. TaB had its own loyal fanbase but remained a niche product. When Diet Coke was introduced in 1982, it was designed as a more mainstream, modern diet soda with updated branding and a lighter, crisper taste.

The success of Diet Coke was immediate—it became a cultural phenomenon and eventually replaced TaB in most markets. However, what makes Diet Coke unique is that it retained TaB’s base formula, making it chemically and flavor-wise distinct from original Coca-Cola.

The Flavour Difference

This is why Diet Coke tastes so different—not just less sweet, but sharper, lighter, and crisper. It doesn’t have the syrupy richness of classic Coca-Cola. The carbonation feels more pronounced, and the drink finishes clean. It’s refreshing in a completely different way.

That flavor difference is also why Coke Zero, which is a no-sugar formula made to taste like original Coca-Cola, exists alongside Diet Coke. And when there were rumors about Coke Zero replacing Diet Coke? Loyal Diet Coke drinkers were not pleased.

I usually get Diet Coke from McD's :)

My New Appreciation

After learning all of this, I decided to give Diet Coke another try—this time with a more open mind. And honestly, I’ve come to appreciate it for what it is. It’s not just a lighter version of Coke; it’s a crisp, refreshing soda with its own distinct personality. It pairs well with food, doesn’t leave a sugary aftertaste, and feels a bit more “grown up” than regular Coke.

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Final Thoughts

What started as a random fun fact turned into a deeper appreciation for a drink I’d long overlooked. Diet Coke isn’t just Coca-Cola minus sugar—it’s a legacy product with its own history, taste, and cult following. If you’ve never given it a real chance, maybe it’s time to try it again—with fresh eyes (and taste buds).

HiSmile Grape Bubble Gum short review

 

I wanted to see what all the hype around HiSmile was about, so I picked up a tube to try for myself. I opted for the Grape Bubble Gum flavour—and I'm so glad I did!

Pros:

• sweet (I'm glad they stated it was sugar-free)
• lovely muscat grape taste (not the other gross artificial grape taste!)
• gentle on teeth
• slight mintiness
• fun to brush teeth with
• I noticed a little brightening (... but I'm not sure whether it is a placebo)

Cons:

• too gentle, can't clean teeth or mouth properly
• still feel plaque and particles between my teeth after brushing
• expensive (for toothpaste)

Here are a few thoughts after using it:

First off, the gel formula is extremely gentle, which sounds nice in theory, but it doesn’t quite deliver on the cleaning front. Compared to more traditional brands like Colgate or Crest, HiSmile doesn’t leave my mouth feeling as fresh or thoroughly cleaned. I could still feel plaque and other particles between my teeth after brushing, which was a bit disappointing.

That said, the flavour is delicious. Honestly, it almost felt like I was doing something wrong because I enjoyed it so much! While the label says "grape," the taste leaned more toward a muscat grape—reminiscent of those Japanese muscat bubble gums I used to have as a kid. There's a hint of mint, but it's extremely subtle. The overall experience felt more like chewing sweet bubble gum than brushing your teeth.

Now, let’s talk price. While your typical Colgate toothpaste costs just a few dollars, this HiSmile tube rang up at $14—definitely a premium for something that's more novelty than necessity.

HiSmile toothepaste

Verdict:
HiSmile is a fun, aesthetic toothpaste, especially if you're curious about unique flavours or want a bit of novelty in your routine. But in terms of functionality, it's not worth the high price tag. It doesn’t provide the deep clean most people expect from a toothpaste. I’d recommend using it for a quick midday refresh, like after lunch, but not for serious cleaning, especially before bedtime.

score: 4/10
website: https://ca.hismileteeth.com/products/toothpaste/grape-bubblegum