Today I decided to torture myself with a “water tint” because apparently, I love chaos. Enter: the ETUDE Dear Darling Water Tint in Cherry Ade.

First impression? Looks cute. Smells like a soda commercial exploded in my face — sweet, fruity, borderline suspicious. Not mad about it, but also… my nose twitched a little.

Application?

It’s basically water with commitment issues. You have to move FAST unless you want a very questionable outline around your lips like you just finished a cherry slushie marathon. It dries so quickly, if you blink, you miss your chance to fix it. And no, it doesn’t forgive mistakes. You mess up? Too bad, you’re living with it now.

Color payoff?

Honestly, not bad. Cherry Ade gives that fresh, just-bitten look that some people on Instagram try so hard to fake. But on dry lips? Oh honey. It will find every crack, every flake, every single regret you’ve ever had. Moisturize like your life depends on it before you even think about wearing this.

Longevity?

It sticks around like an annoying friend who doesn’t know when to leave. Stains your lips beautifully but fades weirdly around the inner rim after a few hours — giving a strong “I forgot to drink water for three days” vibe.

Final thoughts?

It’s fun for that innocent, flushed-lip look. Cheap, cheerful, and unforgiving. Will I keep using it? Yes. Will I complain every single time it betrays my dry lips? Also yes.