Is it enough to just wash my face with water in the morning or should I use a foam cleanser?

When I wake up, I see a little oil on my face, and I always worry about whether I can just wash it off with water. I read an article that said washing my face with water in the morning is good for protecting the skin barrier, but another article said I need to use a cleanser to wash away the dust and waste that has accumulated overnight. I think the right answer will vary depending on each person's skin type.

My skin is slightly combination, with a shiny T-zone and dry cheeks. Which method would be best? I've been seeing a few whiteheads popping up recently, and I'm worried that my cleansing habits might be off. If you have similar skin concerns, please share your morning cleansing routine with me. I'll use your feedback to refine my own cleansing method.