7 Common Makeup Items You Don't Actually Need ...

Unless you're going for ultra dramatic, you don't need eye liner. You can get the same effect by using the edge of an eye shadow applicator or an eye shadow pencil. Plus, you get the added benefit of your liner and shadow matching. For a darker line, dampen the tip of your applicator before putting shadow on it. This creates a much darker line. Just be sure to apply foundation first and use water proof shadow to help the line last longer.

Another common makeup item you don't need is primer. Many foundations already have primer built in. For most of us, a long wear foundation is all that's needed. After all, do you really need another layer of makeup on your face? If you really think primer is a must, buy a foundation with primer already included. It'll help you skip a step and keep your pores from makeup overload.

For the most part, lip liner isn't as popular as it used to be. Sure, you still see it sometimes, but between the plumping and no-bleed lipsticks available, it's not a necessary makeup item. Lip liner is normally used to give the lips more shape, make them look larger and keep lipstick on longer. All day wear lipstick with a layer of foundation underneath gives the same result. A plumping lip gloss gives you more volume without trying to perfectly outline your lips everyday.

Personally, I'm a huge fan of highlighting and contouring. Yet, I don't really see a need for a separate highlighting product. A bit of light concealer, bronzer and luminizing powder does the same thing. Plus, they're items you likely already have on hand. Of course, it you don't use these items, a highlighting cream or stick is a must have. Usually, I get the same result by using concealer and bronzer.

I jumped on the concealer train years ago and had a drawer full of different types. It wasn't until I got tired of digging for the right color for each flaw type that I realized I didn't need multiple individual concealers. I opted for a simple concealer palette with yellow, white and green. However, most days, a yellow based concealer is all I need. If you have redness or acne blemishes, a green is highly useful. Otherwise, dump the extra concealer.

I've never been a huge fan of blush. With pale skin, even the lightest pink or beige made me look like I'd been slapped. Blush is supposed to give your cheeks a natural glow. I say it's a makeup item you can skip. Bronzer gives you a much more natural glow. Top with a luminizing powder and you'll look far more alive and vibrant than you could with blush. Plus, you don't run the risk of over application and the dreaded clown look.

I know many of you won't agree with this one. Setting powder is usually the finishing step to help set your makeup for the day. However, I've found most of us apply too much and it causes dry skin, wrinkles and fine lines to look like bulls-eyes on our faces. Instead, use a luminizing or translucent powder very lightly. It helps highlight your face while setting your foundation and concealer without filling up your pores and fine lines.

I know we all of our favorite makeup items, but these are items you don't really need. Imagine having less makeup clutter to go through each day. Trust me, you'll save time, money and hassle by getting rid of these and multi-tasking with other items instead. Are you ready to give these common cosmetics up?