I apply things with my right forefinger using circular swiping motions, as gently as possible, in a kind of from-the-bottom-up-and-outward pattern (I'm aware I'm explaining that horribly). After that I gently pat or "press" the product(s) into my skin with a silicone makeup applicator (flat and translucent, not the beauty blender sponge kind). I've tried not swiping, but some things are too thick or "dry" to apply without some swiping.

I usually apply from the bowl of a measuring spoon (usually 1/2 tsp or 1/4 tsp, except cleansing oil and micellar water, which I use a 1/2 Tbsp or 1 Tbsp spoon), mostly because I tend to mix things together (multiple toners or essences, oil into moisturizer, etc) with a drink stirrer.