I have used Laura Mercier's tinted moisturizer for years and it's a beauty editor and beauty artist all-time favorite. It's lighter than foundation which makes it perfect for warmer days or for women who don't like heavy product on their faces. There are a bunch of shades to choose from, so I suggest heading to a department store and trying them out. You can use oil-free if you have oily skin or regular if you have dry or mature skin.
Makeup artist Genevieve Herr explains on the awesome Website, xojane, how she uses it, "I usually apply with a wedge sponge that has been wet. I squeeze the water out so the sponge is damp -- so it goes on to the skin smoothly."