Clinique has expanded its best-selling Black Honey collection with a trio of new lip liners, promising to complement the iconic Almost Lipstick shades that have dominated beauty bags for years.
The Hype Behind the Honey
Back in 2021, Clinique’s 37-year-old Black Honey Almost Lipstick experienced a major resurgence, largely driven by viral fame on TikTok where it was celebrated as a universal shade. The demand has shown no signs of slowing, leading the brand to introduce a Nude Honey variant last year. Now, in January 2026, Clinique is launching three matching Quickliner lip pencils in Black Honey, Pink Honey, and Nude Honey, each priced at £20.
Putting the New Liners to the Test
Beauty writer Lucy Smith, who has covered Clinique for over 15 years, tested the new products on bare, moisturised lips. She applied each liner before swiping on the original Black Honey balm to assess their performance.
Black Honey Quickliner: From Day to Night
The Black Honey liner applies more boldly than the sheer lipstick, offering a deeper, berry hue with more pressure. A lighter hand gives a translucent finish. Smith found the creamy formula ideal for quick application, though it's not as long-wearing as a matte liner. Paired with the original Almost Lipstick, it creates a richer, more occasion-ready look with a touch of Parisian glamour.
Nude Honey Quickliner: The Warm, Natural All-Rounder
When used with the Black Honey lipstick, the Nude Honey liner delivers a warmer finish similar to the Nude Honey lipstick itself. This could save fans £5 if they already own the original. Its woody tone makes it excellent for subtle overlining, creating a fuller pout without an obvious look.
Pink Honey Quickliner: Forgiving and Subtle
This shade is the most forgiving, perfect for lip liner beginners or those seeking symmetry under a balm. The subtle rosy hue gives a natural, 'just in from the cold' flush. However, its very subtle payoff might not satisfy seasoned makeup enthusiasts looking for more definition.
Verdict: Are They Worth It?
For devoted fans of the Almost Lipstick trio, these liners offer clear value. The Black Honey liner elevates the signature shade for evening, while the Nude and Pink versions provide definition for low-key days. The formulas are creamy and forgiving, aligning with the collection's easy, swipe-and-go ethos. However, they are not designed for smudging and can wear off with eating and drinking.
Smith tested the liners based on shade accuracy, wear time, ease of application, packaging, and final finish. The twist-up plastic casing prevents sharpening mess, and the creamy application avoids dragging. Ultimately, these liners successfully extend the beloved Black Honey range, offering new ways to wear a modern classic.
