With summer fast-approaching, you might be rethinking your current makeup routine to accommodate the sweltering heat and humidity. For makeup wearers, high temperatures and outdoor activities can mean melting makeup that requires multiple touch-ups throughout the day. If you’re busy juggling a long list of to-do’s, reapplying makeup is likely (and understandably) the least of your priorities.

That’s why many of us have fallen in love with the idea of makeup primers. But with the advent of waterproof makeup, setting sprays and innovative multi-purpose skincare, are foundation primers really that necessary? We tapped into the expertise of licensed esthetician and professional makeup artist, Erin Kelly, to determine whether or not you actually need this product in your makeup bag!

What is a makeup primer? A makeup primer is a product used to –– you guessed it –– prime your skin. Just like you would with painting, a primer is best used on a blank canvas (in this case, your cleansed face), right before applying your favorite foundation or base. In a nutshell, this step allows for your base and makeup products that follow to apply seamlessly, while smoothing skin and extending your foundation’s wear. But that’s not all. Erin Kelly says, “Makeup primers can also help to correct skin imperfections or specific concerns, like redness, dull and dry skin, and enlarged pores.”

Do I really need to use a makeup primer? Busy gals: it’s time to rejoice. According to Kelly, makeup primers aren’t really necessary. But if the idea of smooth skin and long-lasting makeup is appealing to you (let’s be real, we’re sure it is), consider replacing a makeup primer with a two-in-one skin treatment that has priming capabilities. Not only will it save you money, but it’ll save you time, too. Kelly says, “Many skin care products can fulfill the same purpose as a primer. Typically, they offer a short-list of ingredients, such as dimethicone, that you’d find in your favorite priming products.”

Dimethicone is a silicone-based ingredient that provides an instant smoothing effect that, often, feels velvety to the touch. Kelly says, “It, essentially, creates a barrier between makeup and your skin’s natural oils. It’s a very popular ingredient in primers on the market that offer pore-filling and skin-smoothing effects.” Dimethicone works by filling in pores, which is critical in reducing your pores’ appearance and size. Kelly says, “Just be sure to cleanse your skin really well while using them.”

Dermelect Confidence Injection Crease Concentrate features an anhydrous (no water) crease reducing formula that expands when in contact with skin’s natural moisture resulting in a smoother appearance. Wonderful makeup primer!

Another advantage of using a skin treatment instead of a primer? In addition to priming the skin for makeup, most skincare is formulated to address a myriad of targeted concerns, like dullness, dryness, aging and more. Take our Confidence Crease Concentrate, for example. Its potent, waterless formula is the perfect solution for priming and treating skin in one foolproof step. Chocked with Hyaluronic Filling Spheres™ derived from pure hyaluronic acid, this product works its magic by expanding as it makes contact with skin’s natural moisture levels. The result is skin that instantly appears rejuvenated; it becomes more taut, smooth in texture, and deeply conditioned. Over time, this time-saving treatment targets fine lines and wrinkles, thanks to skin-transformative retinol.

For an even and long-lasting foundation application, simply massage a thin layer all over clean skin (don’t forget those sometimes forgotten places, like the corners of the mouth) before your makeup base of choice. And that’s it– no additional primer needed! As a bonus, the Confidence Injection Crease Concentrate can also be used before your moisturizer in the evening, as part of your skincare routine.

Will you be skipping the primer and investing in a two-in-one skin treatment that primes? How do you prep your skin before makeup? Let us know in the comments below!