I Put the Dermablend Insta-Grip Jelly Makeup Primer to the Test on One of the Hottest NYC Summer Days

I live in New York City and in the summer, between the humidity and the lack of air conditioning in the subway stations, it’s safe to say that my makeup routine wouldn’t be complete without a primer. Simply put, my face makeup wouldn’t stand a chance if I forgot this all-too-crucial step. Because I rely so heavily in the summer on my primer keeping my makeup in place, I’m always on the hunt for the next best thing. Despite the fact that the Dermablend Insta-Grip Jelly Makeup Primer isn’t new on the market, it was new to me, and I was excited to put it to the test — on a very unforgivably hot day in Manhattan.

With a forecast of 98 degrees and a humidity level of 82%, I prepared for the worst — and by worst, I mean a very sweaty trek to the subway station about a half a mile from my apartment — by layering on the Insta-Grip Jelly Makeup Primer, followed by my CC cream, concealer, setting powder, bronzer, blush and highlighter (yes, I wear a full face of makeup to work every day). 

The Insta-Grip Jelly Makeup Primer has a clear gel texture that has a slightly tacky feel when it first comes out of the bottle. Applying it onto my face with my finger tips, I was pleasantly surprised by how well it blended. Even still, I could already tell it had quite a “grip” to it when I put it on. The clear formula seamlessly disappeared into my skin and left behind a smooth, blurred look. When I went to apply my CC cream overtop, I could really feel the primer grabbing my makeup, almost like a magnetic. 

Twelve very long hours later — which included starting my day at an event before heading into the office, followed by more events and a quick run to the grocery store — I was home and very pleased with the fact that my makeup was still intact and free of any runs, smudges or smears. 

The final verdict? The Dermablend Insta-Grip Jelly Makeup Primer has next-level staying power and is a must if you’re looking to extend your makeup wear to the max. 

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