We assume that if a product is on backorder, it’s something special. It could even be a game changer. There’s always the nagging suspicion that this could be just hype. We’re so used to this back and forth that we are always eager to try the latest trending product, no matter how long it takes.
What is the most recent viral we have tested? Clinique’s Almost Lipstick Black Honey ($20), a classic lip-balm hybrid, has garnered over 24 million views since its debut on TikTok. It’s been a classic for decades, but TikTok has helped it gain newfound popularity.
We finally have the lipstick that has inspired thousands of try-on videos. Learn more about this coveted lip product below and read our honest reviews.
Why We Love It: Enhances the natural color of your lips for a better-looking finish.
Other CLINIQUE Products You’ll Love: Clarifying Cream, Mascara High Impact
The Product
Clinique’s Black Honey has been famous since it was first offered as a gloss pot. The ultra-light balm comes in a slim and sleek tube and continues to be a bestseller due to its universally flattering shade.
Clinique claims the formula’s ability to blend in with each wearer’s lip color makes it unique. It makes your teeth whiter and your lips more beautiful. You don’t need to use a mirror. “It’s functional, yet so desirable.”
It appears in the tube as a dark, moody shade, but the transparent pigment glides on smoothly, giving lips a glossy shine. The rich formula leaves lips soft and moisturized, so there’s no need to reapply. You can use it with other lip products, such as lipstick and gloss, to enhance the look.
The Hype
Why did this iconic lipstick go viral recently on TikTok? It turns out that another cult favorite is responsible for the revival. TikTok users noticed that Liv Tyler wore Black Honey when she appeared in the Lord of the Rings films. Its fandom only grew from there.
The shade was discovered by makeup TikTok not long after.
Sephora employees reported that the lipstick was sold out in all stores, which only fueled the desire to own it.
The shade has been seen on our screens before. One user revealed that Julia Roberts used Black Honey on Stepmom and Zooey Deschanel on New Girland Troian Bellisario in Pretty Little Liars.
What’s the verdict? This is a must-buy.
Beauty News Writer, Emerald Elitou
“It was like winning the lottery when TikTok’s trendiest lip gloss arrived in my mailbox. The excitement alone of getting my hands on the cult favorite had me sprinkling confetti–figuratively–, but you get the point. The lip balm was applied quickly and easily, and I noticed its light weight and smoothness. The color is a soft, neutral shade that’s perfect for fall.
The hype surrounding the product was justified. It is not often I find the right shade to compliment my glowing brown without distracting from my natural glow. “It’s an inclusive product, and I love it.”
Karli Bendlin, Senior Editor at People
“I’ve been trying many TikTok products in the last few months. While we’re still not done with 2021, I can declare Black Honey my favorite discovery. The product was a long-time favorite of mine, and I lusted after it for many years, but I only tried it recently. I KNEW I HAD A WINNER when I first swiped the dark berry shade. It makes my lips look incredible. You can use one coat to get a natural tint or layer it for a deeper shade. TikTok has done it again.”
Jasmine Phillips is the Social Editor
“More can be more with this *almost* lip gloss. The formula is buildable, and it has a lovely berry tint. Clinique has nailed it with their lipsticks. It certainly lives up to TikTok’s hype.”
