To apply your foundation: A sponge. You can use it either dry or wet, depending on how much coverage you want, says Make-up Designory instructor Yvonne Hawker.

To apply your powder: A fluffy brush will make it easier to dust the powder over a large area like your face.

To apply your brush/bronzer: A smaller, more angled brush will help you focus the color on a small area of your face. If you only have a fluffy brush, you can easily turn it into an angled brush by wrapping your hand around the bristles and flattening them to the side, says Stewart.

To apply your eyeshadow/eyeliner: A tapered brush is best for placing product along your lash line. “If your eyeshadow brush is too fluffy, the shadow will end up flying everywhere,” says Stewart.

To apply your lipstick: A small lip brush. This will give you more control versus applying the color straight from the tube, says celebrity makeup artist Terri Apanasewicz.