Does foundation apply best when applied with your hands?

I’d like to ask about this because it’s something I’ve been subtly curious about every time I do my makeup.

Until now, I thought it was natural to apply foundation by dabbing it on with a puff.

While watching makeup videos recently, I noticed that there are more people than I expected who apply a thin layer with their fingers first and then finish by patting it in with a puff.

Some people say that the warmth of your hands helps foundation adhere better to the skin, while others say that applying it with your hands actually causes the makeup to break down faster due to the oil, so I'm not sure what's right.

I've heard that using a brush covers pores and uneven skin texture more neatly, so I'm considering buying a brush as well.

However, I am hesitant because I've heard that even if you try changing tools one by one, the most important thing is ultimately your skin condition, so I'm worried that I might just end up buying more tools for no reason.

I tend to have dry patches, especially around the sides of my nose and cheeks, over time, so no matter how I apply it, it doesn't feel like it adheres perfectly.

Has anyone tried using their hands, a puff, and a brush?

I am curious to know what method actually produced the prettiest skin finish.

I would also like to hear if you have ever experienced changes in the longevity of your foundation just by slightly altering the order or amount you apply it.

Even though I do my makeup every day, everyone has such different methods that it actually makes me more curious.