Use a magnifying mirror for extra insurance. Apply on inner part of eye, nose and mouth. Concealers are thicker than foundation, so warm on hand first to give it more of a liquid consistency. Powder brushes should be large and fluffy for dusting loose powder across the face, and powder puffs work well with pressed powder, picking up less product to avoid a matte chalky look. Powder adds layers to the skin which will result in dry, tired-looking skin if used too often throughout the day.
Loose powder is good for the eye area to prep for eye shadow.
Brushes that come with blushes are usually too small and deliver a stripe, instead of a sweep. Other than powder blushes, which are best for softer and more subtle looks, there are cream blushes which are more sheer and provide a bit of gloss. The creams are great because they can be applied with the fingers. Apply blush very close to the eye area, blending out toward the temples. The idea is to create an image of health - as if the color is coming from within.