It seems like we’re seeing more and more nostalgic beauty trends reemerging today, from blue eyeshadow that ruled the ‘80s to defined lip liner that was everywhere in the ‘90s. Like it’s been said, everything old is new again, and that couldn’t be more true in the beauty world currently. And nostalgic makeup looks aren’t the only thing trending — nostalgic makeup products are everywhere right now, too. An iconic one that comes to mind for us? The Clinique Black Honey Lipstick, which launched in 1971. You may have grown up with the cult classic shade or have a vague memory of seeing it at a department store, but either way, Clinique Black Honey is back and better than ever. However, there is one caveat: The lipstick costs $25. Thankfully, there are a number of similar formulas that are just like the OG but cost far less. To see the best Clinique Black Honey dupes that beautify lips, keep scrolling.
What does Clinique Black Honey look like?
Part of why Clinique Black Honey is so beloved is because of how lightweight it feels and sheer the color payoff is, despite what it looks like in the tube (which looks dark and more pigmented). The formula is tinted, so you get a beautiful berry hue, but it has a sheer finish. This creates a subtle look to ensure the berry tones are not overpowering.
And as far as the formula feels, it’s unique compared to other lip products. It feels like a super moisturizing lip balm, but is a bit more tinted than a balm and not quite as opaque as a lipstick. Plus, while it has a shiny finish, the sheen isn’t as strong as a gloss — so essentially the formula is a hybrid between lipstick, lip balm and lip gloss.
Clinique Black Honey Almost Lipstick, $25
Why is Clinique Black Honey so popular?
So, how has Clinique’s Black Honey continued to be so sought after more than 50 years after it launched?The answer is simple: It truly looks good on everyone.
The berry tint is such a versatile shade that flatters all skin tones and undertones. And it works for any time of day, all occasions and with all makeup looks from natural to full glam.
And best of all, this lipstick feels luxurious and nourishing. Lips are left feeling soft and hydrated, which is no easy feat with a lipstick. Also worth mentioning is that the formula is super gentle — it’s allergy-tested and fragrance-free.
The 5 best Clinique Black Honey dupes
Read on for the best Clinique Black Honey Lipstick dupes that will give you that gorgeous, versatile color for much less.
Covergirl Clean Fresh Tinted Lip Balm in Bliss You Berry
We love a good drugstore dupe, and Covergirl Tinted Lip Balm in ‘Bliss You Berry’ takes the cake when it comes to Clinique Black Honey dupes. It costs less than $8, making it about a third of the price of Black Honey. Plus, it’s moisturizing, vegan, and made with apricot kernel oil, shea butter, mango seed butters and vitamin C, all of which feel ultra-nourishing on lips.
e.l.f. Sheer Slick Lipstick in Black Cherry
Believe it or not, this Clinique Black Honey dupe — e.l.f. Sheer Slick Lipstick in ‘Black Cherry’ — costs just $5, meaning you could buy five of them for the price of one Clinique Black Honey Lipstick. Many reviewers claim it’s the most similar dupe to the OG that they’ve tried.
@kellystrackofficial Testing a $7 dupe to the viral clinique black honey lipstick #fyp #makeup #beauty #makeupdupe #makeupdupes #dupe #dupes #blackhoney #cliniqueblackhoney
Nivea Blackberry Lip Care
When in doubt, turn to good ol’ reliable: Nivea. The brand’s Blackberry Lip Care is very similar to Black Honey, especially in terms of its sheerness. It doesn’t look or feel heavy, and your lips will feel silky-smooth. That’s because it’s made with moisturizing blackberry extract, jojoba oil and shea butter… no chapped lips will be found here.
Glossier Ultralip High Shine Lipstick in Ember
This Clinique Black Honey dupe isn’t much less expensive than the original, but it may be a better option for those with extra dry lips. Glossier Ultralip High Shine Lipstick in shade ‘Ember’ has a beautiful berry hue that’s shockingly similar to Clinique’s, but has lip-loving ingredients like hyaluronic acid, jojoba seed oil and meadowfoam seed oil. Hyaluronic acid in this dupe makes it especially great for mature lips as the hydrator helps make the pout look plumper and fuller.
Burt’s Bees Tinted Lip Balm in Red Dahlia
Burt’s Bees Tinted Lip Balm in shade ‘Red Dahlia’ has gone viral for being a super close Black Honey match. In the video below, you’ll see how one creator compared the two side by side, and that you can barely see a difference. Like a few of the other dupes mentioned above, it also contains shea butter and botanical waxes that nourish and treat lips at the same time.
@therobelifeblog Two years ago I found the best affordable version of Clinique Black Honey that was viral then. Still love my Burts Bees! #onthisday #affordablemakeup #viralmakeup #makeupdupe
For more of our favorite dupes, click through these stories:
Best Carolina Herrera Good Girl Dupes That Cost $100 Less: 3 Affordable Perfume Options
5 Products Like La Mer for Women Over 50 That Hydrate and Plump Skin Instantly: Affordable Options
5 of the Best Products That Work Like Olaplex to Repair Dry and Damaged Hair
