Southern Living / Francesca Fasciglione
Life’s treasures are few and far between, and among them are my cherished moments with family, the warmth of sweater weather, the charm of vintage recipes, and the artistry of affordable makeup. A staple in my beauty routine, both on my vanity and in my bag, is a vibrant lipstick that brings a touch of color to my face. Over time, I’ve developed a fondness for certain shades, some that I apply daily and others that have suddenly become my go-to favorites, like E.l.f’s Black Cherry Sheer Slick Lipstick.

Let’s be honest, the allure of this lipstick was initially sparked by its viral status on social media. It’s been likened to a more expensive, well-known brand, yet it costs a fraction of the price. The allure was undeniable, and with its stunning hue and nourishing formula, it was love at first swipe, and at just $5, it was a steal.
The E.l.f Black Cherry Sheer Slick Lipstick is exceptional for several reasons. Firstly, its formula is a breath of fresh air—it’s not the typical opaque lipstick. Instead, it offers a sheer yet buildable texture that I find particularly appealing for a more understated, natural look. As one five-star shopper noted, “It delivers a lot of pigment that you can build upon, and a little goes a long way.” Once applied, the lipstick imparts a subtle sheen, enhancing the lips’ plumpness and hydration.
Hydration is key, and this lipstick is packed with skin-friendly ingredients such as meadowfoam seed oil and vitamin E. Meadowfoam seed oil, a plant-based emollient, not only softens the lips but also locks in moisture, preventing them from drying out. Vitamin E, known for its hydrating properties, complements the formula beautifully. One five-star reviewer summed it up as, “It feels like a little balm on your lips,” and praised its hydrating and glossy finish. Moreover, the lipstick includes SPF 10 for gentle UV protection.
What truly sets this lipstick apart is its captivating color. The black cherry shade boasts a rich plum base, deep red tones, and a hint of brown that complements all skin tones, making it a perfect choice for the upcoming fall season. Customers have compared it favorably to more expensive lipsticks, making its $5 price tag even more enticing. One five-star customer expressed, “I love the color and how it’s buildable if you want something lighter,” calling it “a great (and much cheaper) alternative.” Its lightweight, sheer formula allows for layering with other lip products to enhance your overall look.
One last enthusiast highlighted the lipstick’s nourishing qualities and its tinted lip balm-like feel, noting, “It makes my lips very soft and adds a soft color and beautiful shine. I adore this product!”
The E.l.f Black Cherry Sheer Slick Lipstick is a versatile and reliable addition to any makeup collection, perfect for all-year-round use. At just $5, it’s an absolute must-have. If you’re looking to expand your beauty arsenal, check out E.l.f’s other offerings below.
