No matter how many video tutorials you watch, or expert tips and tricks you read up on, when it comes down to it, self-application of make-up is trying for the most dexterous of us. M.A.C is making the process easier.

M.A.C's new Masterclass brushes -- Oval 6, Oval 3 and Linear 1 -- have an odd shape, compared to the brushes you're used to. "In this collection, the brush head and handle are meant to run parallel to the face, instead of having to point the brush towards the face," explains Nick Gavrelis, vice president, global product development, M•A•C Cosmetics. "While you are using a Masterclass Brush, your hand is pointed away from the area you are trying to see. No more blocking the view, as with traditional brushes," he adds.
How to use them

You'll have to first unlearn the brush strokes you're currently used to. "These brushes work in gliding strokes of push or pull, not multiple dabs," says Gavrelis. "Hold the handle between your thumb and fingers and place the brush at the beginning of the area of the face you are going to cover. Glide, pull or push if it feels more natural."

Oval 6: "Great for applying primer, foundation and powder products to the entire face," he says. "Try blush and bronzer for contouring the cheek bone area."

Oval 3: "[This design] includes a corner shape that assists the user in shading and blending cream, or powder eye shadow to the eye," says Gavrelis, adding, "It is also useful for applying foundation and concealer to targeted areas of the face: under the eye, the inside corner of the eye or on the sides of nose."

Linear 1: "[The] short narrow row of fibres help concentrate product application along the lash line" -- ideal to master smoky eyes. "This brush applies a perfect thin line of product along the upper lash line or tucked under the lower lash line. It can also be used to fill in and define the brows, or to apply a defined line along the lip," Gavrelis says.