If there were a Mount Rushmore of universally beloved lip products, Clinique’s Black Honey would surely be on it. Whether you call it a tinted lip balm, stain, or as the brand says, an “Almost Lipstick,” it’s a buildable, lightweight formula that users say suits all wearers. A top seller for HuffPost readers during this year’s Amazon Prime Day, we’re excited to see the balm going for 40% off today, even less than its Prime Day sale price which only dropped to $18.
“I don’t know [how] Clinique did it, but somehow this lip color looks great on EVERYONE,” one review said. “It’s like a natural lip color, but better. Not warm, not cool, just perfect neutral.”
Created in the 70s, named after the natural sweetener, Black Honey has been back in the public eye, after trending on TikTok. Whether you’re a full makeup wearer or love a Chapstick moment, Clinique’s Black Honey is a versatile crowd pleaser, that’s currently at a pleasing price.
“It looks dark in the tube but somehow goes on your-lips-but-better on EVERY skintone,” one wrote. ’I’d say it’s a light brown-toned mauve.”
According to the brand, Black Honey is Clinique’s number one selling lip color. It’s celebrated for being universally flattering and super buildable, perfect for all-season and all-purpose wear. Whether you’re going for an everyday “no makeup, makeup” look or want a strong color for going out, Black Honey can do it all. Called “barely there” or “your lips but better,” reviewers say this product enhances their natural color and even makes their lips look fuller and plumper.
“One swipe adds a hint of color, while a couple more applications adds a dark, wine color that does not overbear,” one reviewer writes. “The best part is you are able to control how much color you want on your lips by limiting the number of applications.”
Deemed a “cult classic” by reviewers, many mention wearing the product for decades, even getting their kids and grandkids into it. Wearers love the slim, packaging and creamy texture, saying it makes their lips feel hydrated without being sticky or tacky. “I’ve been wearing Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey since high school, and it remains my absolute favorite!” one reviewer said. ”…It goes on so smoothly and effortlessly, you don’t even need a mirror for application.”
Some wearers use it on their cheeks to give a blushy glow, making it one of those “everything” products, you’ll be happy to have in your collection. “For someone who doesn’t wear a lot of makeup, this is the only thing I use to add a little color to my face,” another wrote.
Read more reviews to see why readers call Clinique’s Black Honey tinted lip balm “the perfect color for all women,” and grab a tube for yourself while it’s on sale.
“I’ve been wearing Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey since high school, and it remains my absolute favorite! This versatile color looks amazing on everyone, regardless of skin tone. It goes on so smoothly and effortlessly, you don’t even need a mirror for application. Whether I’m going for a natural look or something more polished, Black Honey never disappoints. It’s truly a must-have in any makeup collection!” — Weslea
“I have been using this lipstick for about 20 years. My primary use is cheek rouge. It stays on my cheeks most all of the day. It is rich in color yet sheer. For mornings when I am rushed, it is also my lipstick for the day. As I age, I have wondered if this product would creep into wrinkles around my mouth. So far, not! And I am 71 yrs old. I will continue to purchase this product as long as I am able to get it or as long as I am able to wear it.” — s.wags
“I was pleased to see Amazon carried the Clinique Black Honey Almost Lipstick. It is the perfect ‘every day’ touch of color! I keep a tube in my purse for a quick healthy looking touch up! And what a blast from the past, my fellow Clinique fans. ❤️” — Mark Ferchland
“I love this product and color. Goes on easily. Looks very natural even in this dark color―and I’m very fair skinned. A perfect every day lipstick that can be layered or topped with a gloss for more impact.” — FashionBizarre
“A cult product worth the hype! This lipstick is absolutely lovely and can be many different shades depending on how you layer it. It goes on smooth and lasts for a decent amount of time with no drying out of my lips. Bonus! – I accidentally washed this lipstick in the pocket of my pants. It survived. It is a little bit softer now, but 100% usable and the same quality as before. It didn’t even leak out and stain the other clothes in the load. I don’t recommend washing your, of course, but it speaks to the quality that it can hold up to that kind of damage.” — Tim and Stephanie
“Purchased Black Honey Tinted Lip Balm, has a slightly deeper color if you apply multiple x’s. Nice moisturizing feeling, lips feel soft after you remove or it wears off. Seems to have some staying efficacy, so it can feel heavy if you are not used to lip tinted balms. Would definitely choose this over traditional ChapStick. Sometimes just a little color goes a long way when you have a less is more make up day. Nice size tube with cap. Good packaging/fast shipping. Would recommend as a departure from the traditional lip balm. * Price point purchased during sale event, bonus!!!” — HauteCouture
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