For several decades now, Clinique’s Almost Black Honey lipstick has been a cult favorite and has enchanted beauty fans since 1971. Over several decades and generations, this lipstick remained trendy, having gone. Chelsea Sepeda has been viral on TikTok lately, further establishing its status as one of the must-haves in the beauty world.
This review details the almost lipstick – black honey, based on its features, performance, and overall value. It will give information regarding the creamy moisturizing formula, the transparency of coverage yet buildable to suit one’s taste, an iconic color, and easy application. It shall be made alive through personal anecdotes and other users’ views from the beauty editors representing different skin tones and tastes in view.
This curiosity about the Clearly Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey has been much raised since I am a confessed lipstick lover. The legendary status and claims of its flattery on all skin tones went on to spark my interest, and I was excited to find out if this could live up to the expectations. After all the rave reviews from people in my social circle and from beauty bloggers, I do feel it’s about time that I gave it a try. In this review, the key features relating to Almost Lipstick in Black Honey, followed by its performance and ending with overall value to help the readers ascertain whether this is a beneficial addition for them.
Brand Overview
History and Reputation
- Founding: Clinique was founded in 1968 by Estee Lauder Companies.
- Reputation: This brand prides itself on quality, being dermatologist-tested, and caters to too many different skin types and concerns.
Product Range
- Skincare: From moisturizers to cleansers, serums, and many more, they have a wide range of products for skincare.
- Makeup: Provides several makeup items such as foundation, eyeshadow, mascara, and lipstick.
Iconic Products
- Almost Lipstick: The Almost Lipstick in Black Honey is a famous and iconic product that has been part of many routines through the decades.
Product Overview
Key Features
- Moisturizing Formula: An emollients and castor oil-rich moisturizing formula to hydrate and nourish the skin.
- Sheer to Buildable Coverage: May be worn individually or layered for more opaque coverage.
- Iconic Color: The signature burgundy shade, Black Honey, is a versatile color that flatters most skin tones.
Performance
- Comfortable Texture: Feels lightweight and non-drying on the lips.
- Buildable Color: Layer for a more dramatic look.
- Long-Lasting: Lasts for several hours without reapplication.
Versatility
- Everyday Wear: Suitable for daily use and can be paired with various makeup looks
- Special Occasions: Could be worn for more formal settings and paired with other, more vibrant colors for a night on the town.
Reviews and Ratings
- Positive Reviews: Numerous reviews could be read from users and beauty experts who just adore this product for its moisturizing feature, comfortability of texture, and versatile color.
- Negative Reviews: Some reviewers felt that the product was either too sheer or did not last as long as they expected.
Clinique’s approach to skincare and cosmetics.
Clinque’s Skincare Focus: Clinique does its beauty with a science-first approach. They partner up with dermatologists in the making of products that are gentle yet powerful enough for all skin types. This brand believes in focusing on a three-step skincare regime of cleaning, exfoliating, and moisturizing.
Cosmetics with a Cause: Most makeup products from the brand Clinique are known to be allergy-tested and fragrance-free; therefore, they are a strong brand for sensitive skin. They work towards the enhancement of natural beauty rather than dramatic transformation.
Product Description:
Tube Design
- The Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey comes in a sleek, slim lipstick tube.
- It features the very signature minimalism of Clinique, which comes in simple black-and-white.
- The tube has a twist-up mechanism that allows for easy application and control of the product.
Compact Size
- This tube of lipstick is compact and, therefore, portable to just sling in your purse or carry on-the-go.
- The slim design allows for precise application and is easy to maneuver around lips.
Iconic Branding
- The package contains a clear brand mark with which the consumer associates the delivery of high-quality dermatologist-tested products from Clinique.
- The iconic shade name of Black Honey is also hugely legibly written on the tube so one can easily distinguish which product it is.
Durable Construction
- This lipstick tube is of high and sturdy quality, in a material that feels heavy and solidly made.
- The twist-up mechanism glides smoothly, providing a hassle-free application.
Hygienic Design
- The lipstick tube has a tight closure to prevent the entry of air and other impurities into the product.
- Also, the small opening of the tube allows the dispensing of only the required amounts of a product, hence less potential for wastage.
Shade:
Iconic Color
- The signature shade, known as Black Honey, is a unique blend of blue, red, and yellow pigments.
- It’s a combination that works in harmony, creating one versatile burgundy color flattering on many skin types.
Sheer to Buildable Coverage
- The transparent color pigment in the formula adjusts to one’s natural lip color.
- The color can be worn either sheer and subtle, in its tinted form, or built up for opaque dramatic looks.
Adaptable to Skin Tones
- This chameleon-like quality makes Black Honey different on everyone, tending to pick up the color of a person’s own natural lip color.
- Reviews have demonstrated it to be worn as a rosy berry tint on very fair skin, mauve on olive, and a sheer berry on deeper skin tones.
Versatile Application
- The Black Honey shade in this foundation provides full, buildable coverage and is suitable for various makeup applications or occasions.
- Use on its own for a subtle look or layer with other lip products for a more defined, statement-making pout.
First Impressions
Appearance in Tube:
Color in the Tube
- The Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey is a deep, rich burgundy color in the tube.
- The color seems quite daunting; dark and bold.
Texture in the Tube
- The texture is smooth, creamy, and more like a balm than a lipstick.
- The formula appears to be hydrating and nourishing, so in a word, it hints at the moisturizing effect of the product.
Iconic Branding
- The brand Clinique is at the top of the tube to indicate that this is a reputable company manufacturing good quality dermatologist-tested products.
- This makes the lipstick so appealing, with a classic color in black and white packaging.
Swatch Test:
- Hand Swatch: This lipstick gives easy, glossy washes of color that can be quickly built up to achieve a more opaque look.
- Arm Swatch: This is a bit more vibrant on the arm, showing how it will look with various skin tones.
- Smooth Application: The lipstick applies smoothly, is light in weight, and does not dry out the skin.
- Hydrating Properties: This formula has an excellent moisturizing and hydrating effect after being applied several times.
Application and Wear
Ease of application
Easy Glide: One of the best things about Almost Black Honey is its easy application. This balmy texture glides effortlessly across the lips, making it a perfect quick touch up or on-the-go application. You can even use a light wash of color without a mirror and not have to worry about mistakes.
Buildable Color: While one swipe provides a very light wash of color, the beauty of Almost Black Honey is that it’s buildable. Additional swipes could be layered on to achieve an intense berry stain effect. This makes it possible for you to change from nearly invisible to bold berry lips.
Tips for the best application
Smooth and Effortless
- Apply the lipstick right from the tube to be precise and quick.
- Massage with light, soft strokes, gliding the product around on the lips, covering the entire surface of the lips.
Buildable Coverage
- Start with just one thin, sheer layer for a subtle hue.
- Add more layers to build up the color intensity and achieve a more opaque, pigmented look.
Blot and Reapply
- Blot the lips with a tissue after application to remove any excess product and create a more natural, stained effect.
- Reapply as needed throughout the day to maintain the desired level of color and hydration.
Use a Lip Liner (Optional)
- For a more defined lip look, apply a matching lip liner before or after the lipstick.
- This can help create a crisp, clean edge and prevent the color from feathering.
Pair with Other Lip Products
- Layer the Almost Lipstick in Black Honey over a lip balm or gloss for added shine and hydration.
- Wear it alone for a natural, everyday look or pair it with a bold eye or cheek for a more dramatic statement.
Formula and Texture:
Creamy and Sheer
- Creamy: The lipstick has a creamy texture that glides on smoothly, making it easy to apply.
- Sheer: The formula is sheer, providing a wash of color that can be built up for a more opaque look.
Buildable Coverage
- Buildable: The lipstick can be layered for a more intense color, allowing for customizable coverage.
- Hydrating: The formula is hydrating, leaving the lips feeling soft and moisturized.
Hydrating and Lightweight
- Hydrating: The lipstick leaves the lips feeling moisturized and hydrated, making it perfect for dry or chapped lips.
- Lightweight: The formula is lightweight and non-greasy, making it comfortable to wear throughout the day.
Silky and Soft
- Silky: The lipstick glides on smoothly, leaving a silky finish that feels luxurious on the lips.
- Soft: The texture is soft and gentle, making it suitable for even the most sensitive lips.
Buildable Coverage
- Buildable: The lipstick can be layered for a more intense color, allowing for customizable coverage.
- Sheer: The formula is sheer, providing a wash of color that can be built up for a more opaque look.
Finish:
Glossy
- Glossy Finish: The lipstick has a glossy finish that gives the lips a shiny, smooth appearance.
- Hydrating Properties: The formula contains hydrating ingredients that help to keep the lips moisturized and soft.
Buildable Coverage
- Sheer to Buildable: The lipstick provides sheer to buildable coverage, allowing users to customize the level of pigmentation.
- Layering Options: Users can layer the lipstick for a more opaque look or wear it alone for a subtle wash of color.
Iconic Branding
- Clinique Logo: The Clinique logo is prominently displayed on the packaging, reinforcing the brand’s reputation for high-quality, dermatologist-tested products.
- Classic Design: The tube design is classic and timeless, with a simple black and white color scheme that exudes sophistication.Longevity and Wear Test.
Longevity
- Sheer Coverage: The lipstick provides sheer coverage that lasts throughout the day.
- Buildable Coverage: Formula builds up for a more opaque look, but it may not last as long as a traditional lipstick.
Wear Test
- Morning to Evening: The lipstick can stay for about 4-6 hours without fading away or feathering.
- With Meals: The lipstick wore for about 3-5 hours after eating.
- With Activities: The lipstick would last approximately 2-4 hours after an activity or activities involving moving the lips.
Versatility
Everyday Wear
- With its sheer yet buildable coverage, Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey works perfectly for everyday and casual wear.
- This is also a versatile shade that flatters various skin tones so that it can be worn comfortably for daily activities and running errands.
Special Occasions
- While not overpowering for a black honey shade, it can be built up to dramatic statement-making.
- The lipstick, because of its hydrating formula and glossy finish, is perfect for special events such as date nights or any formal occasion.
Transitional Wear
- The lipstick’s ability to be worn sheer or layered for more intensity makes it a versatile choice that can transition from day to night.
- It can be easily incorporated into both natural, minimal makeup looks as well as more glamorous, evening-appropriate styles.
Daytime Wear
- Sheer Coverage: The lipstick provides sheer coverage that is perfect for everyday wear.
- Natural Look: Gives a natural look, hence fit for casual and daylight activities
- Hydrating Formula: The formula is hydrating, so the lips feel soft and moisturized.
Nighttime Wear
- Buildable Coverage: This lipstick is buildable for a more dramatic look
- Dramatic Finish: Glossy-finish product is perfect for any evening event or special occasion where solutions must be found immediately.
- Long-Lasting Wear: The formula wears well, and even after several hours of wear, it looks good.
Comparisons
Black Honey vs Ruby Woo
Finish
- Glossy Finish: Black Honey is glossy, while Ruby Woo is matte.
- Hydrating Properties: Black Honey is hydrating, whereas Ruby Woo is not.
Color
- Universal Flattering: One is universally flattering, but Black Honey does seem to be a bit more versatile and able to work with many skin tones.
- Color Intensity: While Ruby Woo is just a blue-red, bold, vibrant color, Black Honey represents a sheer, buildable plum shade.
Buildability
- Buildable Coverage: Black Honey is buildable, just not in the true sense of how Ruby Woo is. One can layer Black Honey to gain a more intense color, but not nearly with the type of pigment at hand with Ruby Woo.
- Layering Options: Ruby Woo is very long-wearing with total color payoff, while Black Honey is subtle enough to be worn on its own or layered for more dramatic color.
Iconic Branding
- Clinique Logo: On the other hand, Black Honey is a creation of Clinique, while on the contrary, Ruby Woo is from M.A.C
- Classic Design: Both shades are classically designed, but Black Honey is way more minimalist and timeless in its packaging.
Pros and Cons of Black Honey:
Pros and Cons of Ruby Woo:
Final Verdict:
These two lipsticks—Black Honey and Ruby Woo, heralded icons—have been delivered with their very unique formula characteristics. Black Honey is one of the universally flattering shades for most skin tones; it’s sheer and buildable, so lips are left soft and moisturized. On the other hand, Ruby Woo is also a classic red shade but is matte and long-lasting; however, it can be quite drying on the lips and does not look that great on very fair skin tones. Black Honey might be better if you aim for something no-fuss with lipstick that works with many complexion types. Unless one desires an absolutely classic matte red, Ruby Woo might be the better choice.
Black Honey VS Almost Pink Honey
Color
- Black Honey: An exceptionally dark red pigment, almost a burgundy color, obtained from a mixture of blue, red, and yellow pigments.
- Pink Honey: A much more subdued color, highly pink-toned and much lighter than the more bottomless Black Honey.
Pigmentation
- Black Honey: This shade provides bare, buildable coverage that will construction if layered to a more opaque look.
- Pink Honey: This is also sheer and buildable but, overall, more subtle and shaded than the bolder Black Honey.
Undertones
- Black Honey: This blend of blue, red, and yellow pigments gives versatility to the product and makes it flattering on different skin tones.
- Pink Honey: The pink undertones make it a more universally flattering shade, although this might not be as much of a chameleon as Black Honey.
Finish
- Black Honey: Smooth, moisturizing finish.
- Pink Honey: It has the same balm-like texture and finish that all of these have.
Versatility
- Black Honey: Can be worn alone for that natural look or layered. It’s one of the cult classics in a versatile shade.
- Pink Honey: Gives the effect of “your lips but better” in this color, which works well for daily activities. It might appear less dramatic than Black Honey.
Pros and Cons of Pink Honey:
Final Verdict:
Black Honey and Pink Honey are some of the more excellent shades from the Almost Lipstick line by Clinique. It has exceptionally, very sheer, buildable coverage. It is a hydrating, comfortable formula:.
The main difference would be in color: Black Honey is more bottomless and more universally flattering, while Pink Honey is softer and a bit more neutral pink. Depending on your personal color preferences and skin tone, either one of them could be your perfect everyday lip product.
If you tend to gravitate toward more profound, richer lip colors, Black Honey is probably the better choice. If you’re looking for something a little more subdued—a blush-like pink on the lips—Pink Honey is great. Both are lovely and versatile lipsticks in their own right that would be worth trying.
Black Honey VS Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint in Uncensored
Color
- Black Honey: Unique, on-the-go formula that moisturizes for a glossy finish and is buildable..
- Fenty Beauty Stunna: Lip Paint in Uncensored Long-wearing, non-drying liquid lipstick formula that dries down to a completely transfer-resistant matte finish.
Formula
- Black Honey: Deep color payoff, rich, very well-pigmented
- Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint: The shade has a still richly saturated formula, but fractionally less so compared to Black Honey. The color payoff will, however, still be intense.
Undertones
- Black Honey: Warm, brown undertone.
- Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint: The undertone of this is pale yellow-pink.
Finish
- Black Honey: Has a glossy finish.
- Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint: Dries down to a transfer-resistant matte finish
Versatility
- Black Honey: Suits most skin tones, although less on cool ones.
- Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint: More shades are available in bolder, brighter colors.
Pros and Cons of Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint:
Final Verdict:
Both Black Honey and Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint in Uncensored are excellent options for those looking for a long-lasting, non-drying, and transfer-proof lipstick. However, they cater to different preferences and needs. Black Honey is a more pigmented option that is great for those who want a bold, deep color. Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint in Uncensored is a more affordable option that is great for those who want a long-lasting, non-drying, and transfer-proof lipstick.
Black Honey VS Lovely Honey
Color
- Black Honey: A warm brown-red shade, one of the darkest and most pigmented Almost Lipstick shades.
- Lovely Honey: A rosy mauve shade with a slightly shimmery finish.
Formula
- Black Honey: A sheer, buildable formula with a glossy finish.
- Lovely Honey: The formula’s somewhat see-through and buildable with a bit of shimmer.
Undertones
- Black Honey: Warm brown undertone
- Lovely Honey: This color has an ever-so-slightly yellow-pink undertone.
Finish
- Black Honey: Has a glossy finish.
- Lovely Honey: Slightly shimmery finish.
Versatility
- Black Honey: Suits most all skin tones but not gorgeous on cool skin.
- Lovely Honey: Flattering on most skin types, but might not be so on very fair ones.
Pros and Cons of Lovely Honey:
Final Verdict
The advantages and disadvantages of black honey are different from those of lovely honey. The former has much more concentration, high nutritional value. It holds several health benefits, but at the same time, it can be overly expensive, cause allergy issues, or result in too high sugar intake. The other is lovely honey: softer, milder, and easier to digest. It is less expensive, though probably not as potent for many of the health issues discussed, and it is also less versatile.
The choice between black honey and lovely honey ultimately rests on individual needs and preferences. If one desires a more potent and full-of-nutrient alternative for a longer list of health benefits, black honey would be the way to go. If one is looking for something softer, gentler, more accessible to digest, and less expensive, then lovely honey would be better.
Black Honey VS Raspberry Glace
Color
- Black Honey: A warm, medium-dark red shade in brown, it is one of the darkest and most highly pigmented Almost Lipstick shades.
- Raspberry Glace: A bright, juicy red shade with a sheer finish.
Formula
- Black Honey: This is a sheer, buildable formula with a gloss finish.
- Raspberry Glace: This is a see-through, buildable formula with a glossy finish.
Undertones
- Black Honey: Warm, brown tone.
- Raspberry Glace: Extremely pale pink with a touch of raspberry.
Finish
- Black Honey: Glossy Finish.
- Raspberry Glace: This has a glossy finish.
Versatility
- Black Honey: Flattering for most all complexions, although perhaps not the best choice for those with cool skin tones.
- Raspberry Glace: Most skin tones would look good in this color, except for those with an exceptionally light skin tone.
Pros and Cons of Raspberry Glace:
Final Verdict
Both Black Honey and Raspberry Glace are excellent lipstick options from Clinique, but they cater to different preferences and needs.Black Honey is the more versatile and universally flattering shade, with its warm brown-red tone that complements a wide range of skin tones. The sheer, buildable formula and hydrating feel make it a comfortable everyday lipstick. However, its higher price point and limited availability may be drawbacks for some.
Raspberry Glace, on the other hand, provides a bold, vibrant red color that makes a statement. The sheer, buildable formula is similar to Black Honey, and the more affordable price point is a plus. However, the bright red tone may not be as universally flattering, and some users have reported a drying effect.
Black Honey and NARS Heat Wave
Color
- Black Honey: A deep, rich burgundy color with a mix of blue, red, and yellow pigments.
- NARS Heat Wave: This is a bright, orange-red, satin shade.
Pigmentation
- Black Honey: This gives sheer, buildable coverage that can be layered for a more opaque look.
- NARS Heat Wave: Much more saturated color payoff than Black Honey.
Undertones
- Black Honey: When you mix the blue, red, and yellow pigments, you can show how the color will suit and transform on many skin tones.
- NARS Heat Wave: It has a warm, orange undertone and isn’t quite as versatile as Black Honey.
Finish
- Black Honey: Glossy, hydrating finish.
- NARS Heat Wave: Has a satin finish that provides a smooth, even application.
Versatility
- Black Honey: Can be worn alone for a natural look or layered for more intensity. Considered a cult classic, versatile shade.
- NARS Heat Wave: Provides a bold, statement-making look that may not be suitable for everyday wear.
Pros and Cons of NARS Heat Wave
Final Verdict
Both Black Honey and NARS Heat Wave are excellent lipstick options that offer unique benefits. Black Honey is a versatile option that is universally flattering and provides a long-lasting, moisturizing formula. NARS Heat Wave, on the other hand, provides a bright, juicy orange-red shade that is perfect for making a statement.
Conclusion
The Clinique Almost Black Honey Lipstick is a versatile and universal shade that can be worn on various occasions. It has a unique formula that provides a sheer, buildable coverage and a hydrating finish. The shade is suitable for most skin tones and can be paired with various makeup looks. While it has some drawbacks, such as the need for frequent reapplication and the high price point, it is overall a great product for those who want a long-lasting, comfortable, and moisturizing lipstick.
The Clinique Almost Black Honey Lipstick is a great option for those who want a universal shade that can be worn on various occasions. It has a unique formula that provides a sheer, buildable coverage and a hydrating finish. While it has some drawbacks, such as the need for frequent reapplication and the high price point, it is overall a great product for those who want a long-lasting, comfortable, and moisturizing lipstick.
I highly recommend the Clinique Almost Black Honey Lipstick to anyone who wants a versatile and universal shade that can be worn on various occasions. It is a great option for those who want a long-lasting, comfortable, and moisturizing lipstick.
FAQs:
The formula is described as somewhere in between lipstick and gloss. In this way, it carries a sheer, buildable coverage but leaves behind a glossy, hydrating finish on the lips. This formula contains castor seed oil for keeping lips moisturized.
The color Black Honey is a thin, buildable berry-plum wash for the lips. It does not deliver an opaque, bold color but enhances the natural lip color. This shade is claimed to look good on all skin shades.
Reviews show that the lipstick is pretty long-wearing and will easily last a few hours without needing constant reapplication. That being said, users can expect to need to touch it up at least once after eating/drinking.
This very sheer, buildable formula makes it versatile for use as an everyday product, whether alone for a subtle tint or layered to increase color intensity. The glossy finish also makes it suitable for running errands or dressing up.
