When it comes to iconic beauty products, Clinique’s Black Honey Almost Lipstick is the Beyoncé of lip shades—timeless, universally flattering, and still holding the crown after more than 50 years. It’s that rare gem that manages to complement every skin tone and works for every occasion, from no-makeup looks to full-glam nights out. Its sheer, buildable berry tint with a lightweight, comfortable finish has kept it a beauty bag staple for decades.
But here’s the catch: with all that fame comes a double digit price tag and frequent sellouts. If you’ve ever found yourself staring at an empty shelf or debating whether to splurge on yet another tube, you’re not alone. Black Honey’s popularity has led many of us to wonder—could there be a dupe that gives us the same magic without the price tag?
Well, lucky for us, the search might just be over.
After testing what feels like every lip product in the drugstore aisle, I discovered a near-perfect match in the Covergirl Clean Fresh Tinted Lip Balm in Bliss You Berry. And the best part? It’s only $8! This budget-friendly balm doesn’t just capture the essence of Black Honey—it might just be the most accessible way to recreate its effortless charm. But it doesn’t stop there. Covergirl’s Clean Fresh Tinted Lip Balm isn’t just an incredible dupe; it’s a standout product in its own right. It combines the sheer, universally flattering color payoff we love with a moisturizing formula packed with skin-loving ingredients like apricot kernel oil and vitamin C.
The result? A balm that feels as good on your lips as it looks.
Why Is Clinique’s Black Honey So Popular?
What makes Black Honey such a cult classic?
For starters, it’s that sheer, buildable berry tint that magically complements every skin tone. Its formula strikes a perfect balance: lightweight, moisturizing, and sheer, making it versatile for any occasion. Whether you’re going for a no-makeup look or pairing it with full glam, this lipstick adapts effortlessly.
Another reason for its enduring popularity is its "deceptive" appearance. In the tube, Black Honey looks intimidatingly dark, but once applied, it’s a soft berry hue that’s impossible not to love. Add a TikTok viral moment to the mix, and voilà! It’s back in every beauty lover’s cart, even five decades after its debut.
The Covergirl Dupe: Just $8 and Pure Magic
I have to admit, I was skeptical at first. How could a $8 lip balm deliver the same iconic appeal as a product that’s been beloved for 50 years? But the Covergirl Clean Fresh Tinted Lip Balm in Bliss You Berry exceeded my expectations.
Formula: Infused with apricot kernel oil, shea butter, and mango seed butter, it’s incredibly moisturizing.
Shade: Bliss You Berry is nearly identical to Black Honey, offering that same sheer, berry tint that works on everyone.
Finish: Lightweight, non-sticky, and with just the right amount of pigment.
Feel: It’s hydrating without feeling greasy, making it perfect for everyday wear.
Plus, the Covergirl balm is vegan, cruelty-free, and budget-friendly—what’s not to love?
Black Honey Dreams Without the Price Tag
Let’s face it, Clinique’s Black Honey has earned its place as a beauty icon for good reason. The sheer, buildable berry hue with its lightweight, comfortable formula truly looks good on everyone, no matter the skin tone or occasion. But as much as we love a classic, we also love finding dupes that deliver the same dreamy look without the premium price tag.
Among the many contenders, Covergirl’s Clean Fresh Tinted Lip Balm in Bliss You Berry stands tall as the ultimate affordable dupe. With its $8 price tag, moisturizing formula, and impressive color match, it’s the perfect way to channel your Black Honey vibes without shelling out extra cash.
Of course, beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all, and that’s where alternatives like Nivea’s Blackberry Shine Lip Balm, Burt’s Bees Tinted Lip Balm in Red Dahlia, and e.l.f. Hydrating Core Lip Shine in Ecstatic come into play. Nivea offers a glossy sheer berry wash that’s as budget-friendly as it gets. Burt’s Bees takes things up a notch with a deeper, hydrating tint perfect for those who want their berry look to pop. Meanwhile, e.l.f.’s offering is a dream come true for those with pigmented lips or anyone who craves a slightly richer hue.
With all these options, there’s truly something for everyone. Whether you’re recreating the viral TikTok sensation or simply looking for a versatile lip product to stash in your bag, these dupes make it easy to capture that effortlessly flattering Black Honey effect without splurging.
So, while nothing can fully replace the magic of the OG Black Honey, these dupes prove you don’t need to spend big to get big results. From drugstore aisles to your makeup bag, your Black Honey dreams are just $8 away—and that’s something to smile about.
Love,
Rae
Image Credits - Ava Wittrop
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