Clinique's Almost Lipstick in Black Honey has been around for over three decades and is more popular than ever. I myself have been a long-time enthusiast of the product and universal shade, wearing it since I was allowed to enter the makeup world in high school.
The balm-like lipstick has been a viral product on social media over the years, and if you haven't noticed, other brands are hopping on the trend and creating their own version of the flattering, deep cherry color. So I took it upon myself to try out affordable options from popular brands to find the best match — and I was not disappointed.
For over a month, I applied the four shades daily in my everyday makeup routine and compared them to see how they lived up to The Original: Clinique Black Honey Almost Lipstick. My honest thoughts are all below.
How I tested
To compare the lip products, I wore each one every day for a week straight. This included going to work, running errands, going out to dinner and on vacation. During the review process, I took note of how similar the shades matched and how long the color lasted. When it comes to lip products, the most important thing I look for is how moisturizing they are. I have very dry lips that tend to peel, so hydrating ingredients are key.
Best long-lasting color$undefined$6.00
More Black Honey-like shades, tried by the author
Best for moisturizing
This past year, Glossier launched a new shade of their cult-favorite Balm Dotcom in Black Cherry, and it quickly became an editor-favorite.
As I said, I have extremely dry lips, and this is the most moisturizing lip product I have ever used. It made my lips feel so hydrated that I found myself applying it at night before bed. I'm also debating on grabbing it in a clear formula so I don't stain my pillows. When it comes to the shade, it is pretty spot on; it just has more of a glossy finish.
The brand says the "emollient-rich" formula will keep your lips hydrated for hours — and I agree. However, I did find myself reapplying multiple times throughout the day. But that may be because I just loved the way it felt on my lips, and I couldn't get enough of it.
Best long-lasting color
If you want pretty much an exact match, this E.l.f. Cosmetics option is it. The shade is nearly identical to Black Honey, and it's a fraction of the cost at just $6 (!!!). I was also super impressed with the formula. The brand says it's formulated with vitamin E, which I found it to be extremely moisturizing for my dry lips.
The shade lasts for hours, too. Even after it "faded," a subtle color was left behind, so it almost acts like a lip stain, too.
Best for dry lips
Nivea's tinted balm is brighter and more pink in shade; however, the color of this product is flattering and not too far off from the desired tint.
But it's a good option if you're on the hunt for hydrating ingredients — it's packed with them. According to the brand, it's formulated with jojoba seed oil, avocado oil and shea butter, which they note to apply "generously." While this was another product that alleviated my chapped lips, I didn't find it to last very long, which is probably where the generous application tip comes from.
Best for everyday wear
If you’re looking for a true lip balm, then this Burt’s Bees tinted balm is the perfect choice. Not only do you reap the benefits of the ingredients, but your lips get a subtle pop of the buildable shade.
As someone who uses lip balms more often than lipsticks, I loved to see that the brand offered its classic balm in this deep cherry shade. In fact, out of all the products I tested, I found myself wearing Burt's Bees the most! Especially while I was on vacation and just wanted to moisturize my lips on the plane or while being a tourist. It's subtle and perfect for everyday wear.
Best overall
To be completely transparent, it was a tough decision to choose the best Black Honey-type product — I was back and forth between most of them. But, when it comes to shade and formula, I found that E.l.f.'s Sheer Slick Lipstick in Black Cherry was the best match — and at a more affordable price.
However, each product is worth a try; it really just depends on what ingredients and finish you're looking for.
How we chose
The Shop TODAY editors and writers search the internet to find the best products out there. We interview expert sources and use our own personal experiences with the product and brand to make shopping easier for our readers.
Shannon Garlin is an associate editor for Shop TODAY. She has been with the team for three years and covers a range of topics, including the latest in fashion and beauty, product reviews, sales and more. She has worn Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey for nearly two decades and consistently wears the shade in her everyday life.
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