Tried + Tested: theBalm Balms Away

Paint me Miss Piggy, but oftentimes I channel a certain sexy celebrity cover star and sleep without removing my eye makeup. Please no lectures; I know I shouldn't do it. But it's just that I've yet to find a remover that isn't all dry and alcohol-y. Well that, and I have some sort of inability to use a formula (including soap and water) that doesn't irritate my eyes.

So my hopes for theBalm Balms Away ($19) were about as high as a Lollipop Kid. And believe it or not, I actually avoided wearing eye makeup so I wouldn't have to employ the powers of the lipid-packed salve.

But all good things come to an end and when a double-duper important event called for Laura Geller Eye Stay Duo in champagne and bronze, NARS Luminizer The Multiple aaand an upper and lower lash application of the new Benefit BADGal Blue, I knew the stalling was over.

You know how they say good things come to those who wait? Well, that's me! This is the answer to all of my removal probs. This salve is smooth, hydrating and vitamin-packed. Honest to the heavens on high I actually said "Oh my God!" aloud after I swiped a tissue across my eyes as instructed. No one was around to hear/see me, but the removal was so easy breezy, so complete and so sans tugging, pulling and drying that I was just in a bit of shock and awe. And ta-dah (!) it all went down with z-ero irritation.

Given the fact that the formula is based on co. founder Marissa's g-ma's tins of salve, I should have immediately known I was going be singing this lipid-rich stuff's praises. I mean it's no secret I'm a salve-y gal. And I'm a total sucker for vintage-inspired packaging.

There's one caveat, however: Chicielas with oilier skin, may want to avoid. This salve is extra emollient and a bit heavy. And it's so richly hydrating that after one swipe, you won't need your usual night cream.
-Jenna Mahoney