Whether you're a finger painter or brush artist, the tool you use to apply your foundation is one of the most important elements for getting a flawless finish. If you're too lazy or careless, you'll end up with streaks galore. Pile it on too thick and you've got cakey clown face.

Mills is a pro at getting the perfect foundation look for contestants who are constantly getting close-ups: "Apply foundation all over your face with your fingers, making sure to get the neck, ears and behind the ears," says Mills. "Then, with a damp Beauty Blender, gently dab all over the face to blend."

For more coverage, a densely packed brush like the Benefit Foundation Brush, $24, or a dense, flat-top foundation brush (we love the Real Techniques Stippling Brush, $10) distributes more pigment and creates a smooth, flawless finish.

If you powder your nose the old-fashioned way, a large fluffy brush like Illamasqua's Powder Brush, $57, allows you to build coverage in areas that need more or less product.

Cream foundations work best with fingertip application or a pointed sponge, like the aforementioned Beauty Blender.

After you've chosen the appropriate tool, apply your foundation working outward from the center of the face. Pat lightly with your fingertips or work a brush in circles outward for natural coverage.

If you're using the right foundation and applying it correctly, you shouldn't need much concealer to minimize visible flaws. And remember: no one within "social distance" (approximately 4 to 12 feet) will see the discoloration, pimple or flaw you see when you're staring at your face inches away from a mirror. So use that concealer sparingly.

When Mills applies concealer on clients, she uses her fingers and dabs lightly across the eyelids, under eyes and around the nose and mouth. Using your fingertips will help you apply the concealer evenly to blemishes. Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place High Cover Concealer, $23, comes in 10 shades and the compact case is easily workable with fingers.

"Creams melt into the skin and become one with the skin, giving a flawless finish that looks natural," says Mills. She also uses a damp sponge to blend the concealer with foundation.

And for the morning after a late night (or you know, Monday), when sleepy eyes are your concern, a concealer one shade lighter than your foundation will cover bags and brighten the eye area. A formula with a wand applicator, like Flower Beauty Lighten Up! Brightening Concealer, $7.98 will let you dab around tight spots and corners.