There are very few makeup products that have held the attention of shoppers and beauty gurus alike quite like Clinique's Almost Lipstick. If we're talking specifics, the renowned shade, Black Honey, has been a staple on vanities for decades, even having its resurgence in popularity a couple of years ago (as if it needed it). If you're a numbers person, let me put it this way: seven tubes of Black Honey are sold every minute globally, according to the brand. At this point, if you don't have one, you are in the minority.
Now, Clinique is announcing a new shade launch of this cult-favorite — joining the existing colors, former Shop TODAY Beauty Award winner Black Honey and, the maybe lesser known but still stunning, Pink Honey — that promises universally flattering pigment. Introducing: Nude Honey.
What is the Clinique Almost Lipstick in Nude Honey?
If you love a nude lip, this newest expansion in the Almost Lipstick line is sure to be a game-changer in your routine. While Black Honey offers bold color and Pink Honey veers into soft and sheer territory, Nude Honey meets in the middle with a "just right" mix of warm and cool pigments that Clinique describes as surprisingly flexible. It's designed to look different on every lip and to create a shade that is unique to you. Plus, it's made with 95% conditioning ingredients, so you know it's going to feel incredibly hydrating on the lips.
What we liked
Audience development writer, Danielle Murphy
As someone who regularly leaves the house with some version of a nude lip, this particular launch immediately caught my eye. I love the "my lips but better" look, and I had a feeling this new shade would deliver on that front. I wasn't wrong. Yes, the color is subtle, but it's the perfect amount of pigment if you're looking to bring life back to your pout. I love how this melts into my lips and offers an almost natural-looking gloss.
The brand says that the formula is buildable, but I'd have to disagree. It almost glides on sheer, but then you blink and the loveliest nude color seems to appear, but that color doesn't get any stronger no matter how many swipes I might try. That's not necessarily a bad thing; it's just not what this lipstick is trying to achieve. When I want to add a little more oomph, I just a grab my nude/brown lip liner to pair with it for a little more definition and color.
Commerce writer, Jannely Espinal
Before getting to the lipstick of it all, Espinal is quick to point out her appreciation for Clinique's packaging, saying that she likes the angled applicator and how easy it is to twist and glide onto the lips.
In terms of formula, she says that it's very hydrating and feels more like a lip balm. While she wishes it offered more pigment, she says that the shade is a good option to pair with heavier makeup looks or when you want to add a light tint without going for anything too bold.
Associate commerce editor, Shannon Garlin
Garlin has been wearing (and loving) Black Honey for over two decades, so we were very curious to see if this new shade can live up to her high expectations. "As much as I love Black Honey, sometimes you just want a more natural nude, and this one delivers," she raves. "It’s honestly the perfect natural shade and has all the benefits of the same moisturizing formula. I will definitely be adding this to my everyday makeup routine."
Editorial assistant, Madison San Miguel
"This new shade is definitely your lip color, but better," says San Miguel. "While you do have to layer to build the intensity (from my experience), the color develops into a warm nude-mauve that is just a few shades darker than my natural lip color." She adds that the finish offers a satin-like feel, without any sheen or shine, and is quite comfortable. Plus, it's incredibly easy to apply!
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What to consider
If you're looking for a shiny, super glossy finish, this formula alone isn't designed to provide that kind of finish. The end result is sheer and lightly tinted — a "glossy slip," according to the brand. If you love the color but prefer more shine, I recommend adding a light layer of clear gloss on top.
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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.
Danielle Murphy, Jannely Espinal, Shannon Garlin and Madison San Miguel have all covered beauty extensively in their careers, from explainers to product reviews.
