You want your brush to be about the size of your cheek apples, and this of course varies from person to person… A bigger brush is fine for bronzer, but when it comes to blush, the placement and result will be affected by the size of the brush in comparison to your face.

When it comes to applying blush, the right brush is just as important as the right shade. Using the wrong brush can result in a patchy, uneven application that looks anything but natural.When it comes to powders, even firmer brushes will deposit less product on the skin than a damp sponge will. Since I prefer a more luminous finish I definitely prefer applying setting powders with a soft brush, though on rainy days and when I’m feeling a little oily I will use a firm brush instead.

Disposable tester applicators don't just belong on the makeup store's display shelves. These mascara wands, aka spoolie brushes, belong in your makeup bag, too. The tips have 360-degree synthetic bristles (kinda like a pipe cleaner) and often have bendable heads, so you can shape them how you want. You might think you don't need extra spoolie wands when your mascara comes with a built-in one, but once you realize how multipurpose these little guys are, you'll understand why they're first on this list. A general eye shadow brush is a small, usually stubby brush meant for sweeping eye shadow all across the lid and upper eye area. This is a great tool to use for eye shadow primer, as well. Simply dip the brush into the shadow, tap off excess, and apply to lids. For a more pigmented effect, you can dip the brush in water. 11. Angled Eye Shadow Brush The water serves two functions here: one, to ensure an even coat of your foundation and two, to keep the brush from absorbing any of the foundation—saving you money since the brush won’t soak up any of your makeup. However, take care to remove the water by gently squeezing excess water out into a towel; too much moisture will dilute your makeup, making the product’s coverage ineffective. Personally, I prefer a firmer contour brush, though others might prefer a firmer highlighter brush, for example. Firmer brushes also tend to work better with cream products of various types, assuming they are synthetic.When it comes to powder blush, the most effective way to apply is by sweeping blush along your cheekbones for a softer look. With creams and liquids, gently tap onto cheeks for a more precise application. “Always start out with minimal product and build up to your desired intensity,” advises Renée Loiz, celebrity makeup artist and founder of Color May Vary.

Of all the types of makeup brushes, powder brushes are well-suited for adding color like blush when you want a more natural, less pigmented result. Think a dusting of rosy cheeks instead of a dramatic, deeply-hued look. 2. Tapered Foundation BrushEye shadow crease brushes generally have a gentle taper; this allows tight precision when you’re adding in the final touches of your smoky eye. Use it to layer pigment where eye lid naturally folds. 13. Eyeliner Brush