One Pillow Talk product sells every 10 seconds globally - here's why we all became infatuated with this one lipstick shade

The ultimate universal pink

Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk - a flat lay of Charlotte Tilbury pillow talk products
(Image credit: Charlotte Tilbury)

There are a few lipsticks that really make their mark on the world: MAC Ruby Woo, Clinique Black Honey, and of course, Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk. 

Having only launched 10 years ago in 2013, as the Charlotte Tilbury Cheat Lip Liner, the shade has quickly become an icon and grown into an impressive shade collection. First in 2017 with the Matte Revolution Lipstick and expanding into eyeshadow, blush and even mascara; becoming samples in everyday routines for many—including me. 

But what makes Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk so great? I’m glad you asked because that’s exactly what we’re going to dive into today. 

The reason Pillow Talk became so popular is all down to its “universally-flattering” shade. Now, the idea of a universally-flattering shade is tricky because rarely, if ever, is a shade successful and suitable for everyone. However, what I will say is that it’s done an excellent job at suiting many, many skin tones. Described as a nude-pink, Pillow Talk is what Charlotte Tilbury calls “everyone’s perfect shade” for everyday wear. And so far it has earned over 1,000 5-star reviews, with one Pillow Talk product selling every 10 seconds globally. It’s definitely doing something right. 

As someone with a light skin tone and rosacea, I keep Pillow Talk in my bag at all times. It’s one of those shades that adds just a little flush of colour without looking overly “done”. As well as that, it’s the perfect balance between being neutral and pink without making my rosacea appear emphasised. It’s a lipstick that elevates any look but is easy-going enough to apply without a mirror and on-the-go. And not to mention the beautiful, sleek packaging is gorgeous. It feels ultra luxurious without the hefty price tag. 

Although Pillow Talk was extremely well-loved, there were requests that more was needed when it came to shades, which was confirmed following the brand’s 2022 launches of two darker shades: Pillow Talk Medium and Pillow Talk Intense. 

In 2023, the Pillow Talk range includes everything you can think of, from lip products to eyeshadows and even mascara and eyeliner—and I can’t get enough of it all. 

Best Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk products, reviewed by a beauty editor

1. Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat in Pillow Talk

Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk - Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat in Pillow Talk

(Image credit: Charlotte Tilbury)

2. Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick in Pillow Talk

Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Lipstick

(Image credit: Tori Crowther)

3. Charlotte Tilbury Matte Beauty Blush Wand

charlotte tilbury pillow talk - Charlotte Tilbury Matte Beauty Blush Wand

(Image credit: Charlotte Tilbury)

4. Charlotte Tilbury Luxury Palette in Pillow Talk 

Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk - charlotte Tilbury Luxury Palette in Pillow Talk

(Image credit: Charlotte Tilbury)

5. Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Light Wand Pillow Talk Original

Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk - Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Light Wand in Pillow Talk

(Image credit: Charlotte Tilbury)

6. Charlotte Tilbury Push Up Lashes Mascara

Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk - charlotte Tilbury Push Up Lashes Mascara

(Image credit: Charlotte Tilbury)

7. Charlotte Tilbury Eyes to Mesmerise in Pillow Talk 

Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk - Charlotte Tilbury Eyes to Mesmerise in Pillow Talk

(Image credit: Charlotte Tilbury)
Beauty Contributor

Tori is a freelance beauty journalist and contributor for Marie Claire. She has written for various titles, including Allure, Glamour, Elle, Refinery29, Brides, and more. Currently training to be a nail tech, Tori is a total nail enthusiast and always has time to talk all things nail art. When she’s not writing about beauty and testing products, Tori can be found walking her rescue dog Pip, drinking great coffee, and eating as many croissants as humanly possible.