When it comes to stippling on foundation, flicking out a sharp cat eye, or naturally highlighting cheekbones, the best makeup brushes are your secret weapons to a flawless finish. Sure, fingers can do some of the work, but it’s quality tools that make all the difference (not to mention, using brushes tend to be more hygienic—so long as you properly clean them). With so many options available, it can be hard to figure out exactly what type you need. A good starting point is assessing the level of face painting you plan to do regularly. Those who prefer full looks or are always experimenting may want to invest in a professional set. Meanwhile, beginners eager to get down to the basics can start with frugal finds that are still worthy of attention.

To help figure out which brushes are a must in your kit, we consulted over a dozen makeup pros—including celebrity artists Jamie Greenberg and Ashunta Sheriff who’ve worked with some of the biggest names in Hollywood (think Rashida Jones and Taraji P. Henson). Because if you want a good recommendation, turn to people who regularly work on the red carpet, behind movie sets, and generally need their work to look effortless in harrowing conditions. Doing your makeup for a selfie is hard–doing it for the Oscars is even harder. Ahead, find the 19 best makeup brushes recommended by these experts—from MAC Cosmetics eyeliner classics to must-have sets for bronzing, blending eyeshadows, and more that you can grab from your nearest beauty store.