Your makeup is only as great as the tools you use to apply it. So if your brushes are frayed, bent and generally haggard, consider this your wakeup call: It's time for an upgrade.

Look for brushes with comfortable handles and soft fibers that hold their shape. If you're concerned about germs, opt for brushes made with synthetic hairs, which harbor less bacteria than animal fibers. Tweezerman Brush iQ brushes are a good option, as they're made with synthetic fibers and are vegan and cruelty-free.

Once you're armed with the perfect brushes, you're ready to discover our most trusted makeup brush tips -- and the Tweezerman Brush iQ brush you'll need to execute each one flawlessly. From basic blush application to major contouring, we've got every skill level covered. And take it from us: These tricks so much easier to master if you've got the right tools.

If you want your makeup to look perfect, a good primer is essential. But not all application methods are created equal. If you dab primer on with your fingers, chances are you're moving it away from the areas that need it most (looking at you, shiny T-zone). Instead, use a Tweezerman Brush iQ Pointed Foundation Brush, $22, to pat primer exactly where it should be: the nose, forehead, around the mouth and spots with obvious pores. The domed tip makes it easy to reach creases (like around the nose), and the bristles hold just the right amount of product.

Have you noticed that you're left with a crisp line of foundation along your jaw after you apply makeup? It means you're not blending enough -- and you're also probably putting on too much foundation. Unless you have serious skin issues or are appearing on live TV, you don't need to go crazy with product. Focus your makeup toward the center of the face and wherever you have discoloration, and then gradually diffuse it as you reach your hairline and jawline.

The best way to achieve controlled foundation application is to use a brush like Tweezerman Brush iQ Foundation Brush, $16. The tapered shape makes it extremely precise -- perfect for tapping foundation from the center of the face outward. You'll never have to worry that it looks like you're wearing a foundation mask again.

There's nothing prettier than soft, perfectly contoured makeup. However, there's nothing worse than harsh streaks where subtle contour should be. After using the Tweezerman Brush iQ Mini Face Contour Brush Set, $25, to sculpt your face by shading underneath your cheekbones, reach for the Tweezerman Brush iQ Finishing Contour Brush, $29. It has two different types of fibers that allow it to blend makeup without moving it around. The result is defined, yet blurred -- kind of like your favorite Instagram filter.

You can also apply your foundation with the Blending Sponge in the Tweezerman Brush iQ Mini Face Contour Kit, or you can use it to blend out your freshly applied foundation for a more natural look. Simply run the sponge under water, and squeeze out the excess water in a towel. Then bounce the Blending Sponge over your face -- don't drag it -- for a seamless, streak-free finish.

When you look in the mirror circa 4 p.m., does the concealer under your eyes look like zebra stripes? If so, it's probably settling into fine lines. (If not, consider yourself one of the lucky few.) Fortunately, switching up the way you apply concealer can help with creasing, and using the right brush is the most important step. Tweezerman Brush iQ Pointed Concealer Brush, $12, gives you full coverage with minimal creasing because it evenly distributes concealer exactly where you need it. Focus the product on the dark circles or red spots, and tap -- don't drag -- the brush.