Step #1 in every skin care regimen is cleansing. Removing excess oils, dirt, debris, and makeup is essential to skin health, as well as the efficacy of your other skin care products! But with so many cleansers to choose from, how do you know which one is right for you?

If you’re wondering which face cleanser texture will suit your skin best, here’s a spoiler: it is entirely up to you. That being said, there are some pros and cons to each face wash texture that may help to guide you. At the end of the day, as long as you’re cleansing your skin with high-quality ingredients that won’t over-dry your skin, your face will benefit regardless of the texture you prefer.

Here’s a rundown of the different face cleanser textures we offer on ATOPALM.com, and the skin types that may benefit from them.

Foaming cleanser is our most basic, and most popular, texture. It’s the texture that many people prefer, and it’s easy to see why. Foam is fun! It also allows you to easily see and feel where it’s been applied, so you’re able to get an even application to care for all your skin. A foaming texture is mildly moisturizing without feeling heavy, and it’s easy to rinse away. A foaming cleanser will bring you a simple, thorough, and easy washing experience.

Gel cleanser is often preferred by those with oily or blemish-prone skin. It feels lightweight and clinical—in a good way. Gel cleansers are great at reducing feelings of excess oil while giving skin a light dose of hydration to prepare it for your next products.

Oil balm cleanser is a rich and highly moisturizing cleanser that’s preferred by dry skin types. It provides feelings of a moisturizer while actually balancing oil levels and purifying skin. It’s great at dissolving makeup, and will never leave the skin feeling stripped after it’s rinsed away.

Cleansing water is a unique cleanser that purifies skin without the need for water—think of it as its own water! It’s excellent for use when a sink or shower may not be handy (think camping), but it’s also great for those who are just short on time or hate the cleansing routine! It’ll remove makeup, excess oils, dirt, and debris, leaving skin fresh and ready for further care. Cleansing water is also often preferred by tweens and teens who are learning to care for their skin, since it’s quick, easy, and travel-friendly.

No matter which cleansing texture you choose, the important thing to remember is that cleansed skin is happy skin! Never skip this important skin care step, and you’ll see your skin reward you with improved clarity, balance, and radiance.