What's In My Eye?

I've mentioned the potential dangers of sulfates and parabens in beauty products, but have you ever wondered what's in the stuff you use to remove your eye makeup? First, you'll notice that their are only a few eye makeup removers on the market, namely Almay and Andrea EyeQs (remember those oily things you used in junior high?), so options are limited. Since their active ingredients are similar, let's review Almay's Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover Pads. Boasting a "botanical blend of aloe, cucumber and green tea to condition, hydrate and soothe skin," it also contains Phenoxyethanol, a bacteria-killing compound, and Methylparaben and Propylparaben, two chemical preservatives that are part of the controversial paraben family, which some studies have associated with breast tumors and endocrine disruption. The mainstream cosmetic industry argues that this stuff is absorbed (through the skin and into your intestines, mind you!) and excreted quickly, so your health risks are minimal, but come on people, let's not play with fire if we have some natural alternatives. Which brings me to...

Physicians Formula Organic Wear. When this line of chemical-free bronzers, makeup removers and mascaras was launched last summer, it was pretty much in every drug store, but I'm noticing the awesome eye makeup remover pads haven't been incorporated into the regular Physicians Formula section since those fancy displays sold out. I asked the company, and no, they haven't been discontinued. But you may find them at your local Target, or you can order them here. The good news is it works, and without harsh chemicals or preservatives. Its ingredient list includes orange fruit water, aloe juice, cucumber extract, soybean extract, olive oil, lemon peel oil, radish root and lavender oil. The only other indredient? Water. Brava! When you're having a tough time removing that sexy smoky eye, you can rest easy knowing you're not rubbing chemicals into your eye with these pads.