A few months ago, I decided to make the switch from makeup remover in a bottle to makeup removing wipes.  The reason was simple: TSA’s liquids and gels rule is tyrannical and my compliance with their draconian measures required that I scale back on my fluid usage.

After trying several brands (Neutrogena, Garnier, St. Ives), I was discouraged by the fact that every wipe seemed to leave my skin either coated in a powdery film or drier than the Kalahari.  Until I tried Josie Maran Bear Naked Wipes ($12 for 30).

These wipes are made without the parabens, sulfates and other chemicals used in traditional drugstore wipes.  Sure, this change makes them significantly more expensive than the other brands, but it also makes them significantly more awesome.  And I’m always willing to pay a little more for awesomeness.

Instead of the chemicals the other wipes contain, Bear Naked wipes are amde with aloe vera, cucumber, and chamomile.  They also contain a hint of Maran’s best loved product, Argan oil (also a Belle favorite for the dry winter months).  These soothing ingredients make them gentle enough to remove eye makeup, without being so gentle that they’re completely ineffective.

My only complaint about these wipes is that part of the proceeds goes to protect polar bears from extinction.  Because as I always say: I’m not anti-polar bear, I’m pro-baby seal. But I like the product so much that I’m willing to overlook the fact that some of the purchase price goes to the Natural Resources Defense Council.

If you have sensitive skin like mine, or just want a chemical-free alternative to the drugstore brands, you really need to give these wipes a try.  Their gentle, effective and incredibly calming on dry skin.  I love them, and so will you.