La Gomera Nature Box
Frequently asked questions
Here we answer what people ask us most about La Gomera Nature Box: which products we make in Valle Gran Rey, what they are made of, how much they cost, how to use them, how to buy them and how our soap-making workshop works. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, message us on WhatsApp and we’ll get back to you.
About La Gomera Nature Box
What is La Gomera Nature Box?
La Gomera Nature Box is a small artisan natural cosmetics brand based in Valle Gran Rey, on the island of La Gomera. It makes soaps, a solid shampoo bar, a cream deodorant, a calendula ointment and a lip balm, using plants grown on its own farm. It also runs workshops where visitors make their own soap during their stay on the island.
Are the products really made on La Gomera?
Yes. The products are handmade in Valle Gran Rey, on La Gomera. The aromatic and medicinal plants we use (calendula, lavender, rosemary, sage, mint, lemon, orange) are grown directly on the brand’s farm, in the same valley.
Are La Gomera Nature Box products 100% natural?
We prefer to speak of handmade production with ingredients of natural origin, rather than “100% natural”. Our soaps are handmade from a glycerin base to which we add plants grown on our farm in Valle Gran Rey, essential oils and mineral colorants. That base includes some ingredients that are not directly plant-derived, which is why we publish the full INCI list of every product: so you can check exactly what it contains.
Products, sizes and prices
What products does La Gomera Nature Box sell?
The current range includes handmade soaps (hand soaps and shower soaps), a rosemary and mint solid shampoo bar, a sage and lime cream deodorant, a calendula ointment that also works as a lip balm, and a line of felted soaps wrapped in natural wool.
How much do the handmade soaps cost?
The handmade soaps come in several sizes: 14 g (hotel size) at €2.50, 20 g (travel size) at €4.50 and 50 g (everyday size) at €6.95. The rosemary and lemon-coffee shower soaps come in a larger size at €9.00. Prices include IGIC (the Canary Islands’ general indirect tax).
Which soap varieties are there?
There are currently five soap varieties: calendula and orange (ideal for sensitive skin), lavender (soothing and balancing), rosemary (revitalizing and purifying), lemon and mint (refreshing and revitalizing) and lemon and coffee (with exfoliating properties, available in shower size).
How much does the solid shampoo bar cost?
The rosemary and mint solid shampoo bar comes in two sizes: 20 g at €4.50 and 40 g at €8.00. It is the only solid shampoo variety on sale right now; more formulas for other hair types are planned.
How much does the natural deodorant cost?
The sage and lime cream deodorant comes in a 40 g size at €7.50. It is the brand’s best-selling product.
What is the calendula ointment and how much does it cost?
The calendula ointment is a multi-purpose balm that also works as a lip balm. It comes in a 20 g size at €4.50, in a clear version and in three tinted shades.
What are felted soaps?
Felted soaps are soaps hand-wrapped in natural wool felt, which acts as a gentle exfoliating sponge and makes the bar last longer. They come in a 90 g size at €14, in rosemary, lavender, lemon and mint, and calendula.
What is the best-selling product?
The sage and lime cream deodorant is, by a wide margin, the best-selling product. The reason: it works very well, and people who try it once tend to like the result, even if it is their first time using a natural deodorant.
If it’s my first time trying the products, what do you recommend?
For a first purchase, the best option is a small pack with the five soap varieties in hotel size (14 g) and the sage and lime deodorant. That way you can try all the scents and pick a favorite for future purchases, without investing much in something you don’t know yet.
Ingredients, INCI and naturalness
Are the products notified as cosmetics in the European Union?
Yes. The products are notified in the CPNP (Cosmetic Products Notification Portal), the European Union’s official cosmetics portal. The person responsible before the health authority is the founder of La Gomera Nature Box herself.
Do they contain palm oil?
No. None of La Gomera Nature Box’s products contains palm oil.
Are they vegan?
The soaps and the deodorant are 100% vegan. The calendula ointment and the lip balm contain beeswax (Cera Alba), so they are not vegan.
Are they tested on animals?
No. No La Gomera Nature Box product is tested on animals, in line with current European regulations.
What is the INCI of the rosemary soap?
Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Stearic Acid, Aqua, Lauric Acid, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Sodium Hydroxide, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter, Sorbitol, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil, Sodium Chloride, Titanium Dioxide, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Oil, Etidronic Acid, Sodium Thiosulfate, CI 77288, Pinene, Camphor, Limonene, Beta-Caryophyllene, Terpineol, Linalool.
What is the INCI of the lemon and coffee soap?
Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Stearic Acid, Aqua, Lauric Acid, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Sodium Hydroxide, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter, Sorbitol, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil, Sodium Chloride, Titanium Dioxide, Citrus Limon Peel, Citrus Limon Peel Oil, Coffea Robusta Seed Powder, Limonene, Etidronic Acid, Sodium Thiosulfate, Pinene, Citral.
What is the INCI of the rosemary and mint solid shampoo bar?
Sodium Coco-Sulfate, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Ricinus Communis Seed Oil, Silt, Mentha Piperita Leaf, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf, Mentha Piperita Leaf Water, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Oil, Pinene, Camphor, Limonene, Linalool, Linalyl Acetate, Beta-Caryophyllene, Terpineol, Terpinolene, Alpha-Terpinene.
What is the INCI of the sage and lime deodorant?
Cocos Nucifera Oil, Sodium Bicarbonate, Zea Mays Starch, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter, Zinc Oxide, Salvia Officinalis Leaf, Citrus Aurantifolia Peel Oil, Limonene, Salvia Lavandulifolia Herb Oil, Camphor, Pinene, Linalyl Acetate, Linalool, Beta-Caryophyllene, Anethole, Terpineol, Geraniol, Terpinolene.
What is the INCI of the clear calendula ointment?
Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter, Cera Alba, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract.
Skin, safety and use
Are they suitable for sensitive skin?
The calendula and orange soap is the one most recommended for sensitive skin, thanks to the soothing properties of calendula. The other soaps are also suitable for general use, with one caveat: people with very reactive skin may find rosemary somewhat stronger, because of the intensity of its essential oil.
Can they be used on the face?
Yes, all the soaps can be used on the face. For sensitive or reactive skin, the calendula and orange soap is the most recommended.
From what age can the products be used?
The products are laboratory-certified for use from age 18.
Can they be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
As a precaution, we recommend avoiding products that contain rosemary or sage during pregnancy and breastfeeding. This includes the rosemary soap and the sage and lime deodorant. The other products have no known specific contraindications, but if in doubt it is advisable to consult your healthcare professional.
What if I’m allergic to an essential oil?
If you know you have an allergy to a specific essential oil, the most prudent thing is not to use the product that contains it. Each product’s full INCI list is published both on the label and on this website, so you can check it before buying.
Solid shampoo
What type of hair is the solid shampoo bar designed for?
The rosemary and mint solid shampoo bar is formulated for normal hair, and gives especially good results on straight or short hair. It leaves hair feeling light, clean and fresh. For curly or thick hair, or hair with specific needs (very oily, very dry, colored), there is not yet an optimized formula; new varieties are planned.
How many washes does a solid shampoo bar give?
It depends on hair length and how often you wash, but as a guide one bar lasts at least 20 washes. On short or medium-length hair it can last considerably longer.
Do I need conditioner afterwards?
No, it isn’t essential. The formula is designed not to leave hair rough or frizzy after washing. We do not currently sell a conditioner.
I’m coming from conventional shampoo. Will my hair feel different the first few washes?
It may feel different, generally lighter, with a fresher feel on the scalp. Most of the feedback we have received is positive, especially from men and on straight hair. If after several washes the result is not what you expected (for example, on very curly or thick hair), we would appreciate hearing from you: it helps us keep developing new, specific formulas.
Natural deodorant
Does the deodorant contain aluminum?
No. La Gomera Nature Box’s deodorant contains no aluminum salts.
Does it contain baking soda?
Yes, the formula includes sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) as part of the active system. It is an effective ingredient for odor control, although it can be irritating on skin that is very sensitive to this particular component. If you notice irritation, we recommend you stop using it.
Does it contain alcohol?
No. The formula contains no alcohol.
How long does a jar of deodorant last?
With daily use, a 40 g jar lasts between two and three months. As it is a cream in a jar, you apply a small amount with your finger and spread it over clean, dry underarms.
Does it stain clothes?
It does not stain clothes with normal use.
Can it be applied right after shaving?
Yes, it can be applied to freshly shaved skin.
Does it melt in the heat?
As it is a cream with a coconut oil and shea butter base, it softens at high temperatures and firms up at low ones. In summer it may be softer than usual; if you keep it somewhere cool it recovers its texture. In the fridge it becomes very hard and is not comfortable to apply, so we do not recommend refrigerating it.
I’ve tried natural deodorants before and they didn’t work for me. What makes this one different?
The combination of baking soda, zinc oxide and lime essential oil gives effective odor control, according to the experience of regular customers. It is one of the reasons it is the brand’s best-selling product. Every skin is different, but you can try the small size to judge the result with little investment.
Shelf life and storage
How long do the products last once opened?
All products show a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months on the label. That is, once opened, they keep their best properties for at least a year if stored properly.
What is the best way to store the soaps and the deodorant?
In a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight. Soaps last longer if you let them drain between uses on a draining soap dish, not sitting in a puddle of water. The deodorant keeps best at a stable room temperature; there is no need to keep it in the fridge.
How long does a bar of soap last with daily use?
A 50 g bar with daily use lasts about two months, although it depends a lot on the type of use (washing hands several times a day, daily showers, occasional use) and on how well it dries between uses.
What is the difference between the hand soap and the shower soap?
The base composition is the same: the main difference is the size, larger and more ergonomic in the shower soap so you can lather the whole body comfortably. In the specific case of the lemon and coffee soap, the shower version also includes ground coffee as a gentle exfoliating agent.
How to buy and shipping
How can I buy the products?
Currently orders are placed via WhatsApp. Just send a message with the products and size you want, and we agree on delivery or shipping. An online shop with a shopping cart is in preparation.
Where can I buy the products in person on La Gomera?
The products are available in several pharmacies and shops on the island, and in an herbalist’s shop (herbolario) in San Sebastián de La Gomera. You can also buy directly at the laboratory in Valle Gran Rey by making an appointment via WhatsApp; in that case you can visit the space and choose the products in person.
Can I visit the farm or the laboratory?
Yes, you can visit the laboratory in Valle Gran Rey by appointment via WhatsApp. In addition, a visit to the farm can be combined with the soap workshop.
Do you ship?
We ship within the Canary Islands (including Tenerife and the other islands) and to mainland Spain. For now we do not ship to the rest of Europe, because of a new European regulation on cosmetic packaging whose compliance is under review.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, bank transfer and card payment through Stripe. PayPal is also available on request.
Gift sets, gifts and wholesale
Do you make gift sets or gift boxes?
Yes. Gift boxes are put together on the spot according to what each customer needs. The base price starts at between €25 and €30, and from there you can combine the products you prefer: soaps in different sizes, deodorant, ointment or lip balm. They are ideal for personalized gifts, birthdays or wedding favors.
Do you sell to hotels, rural houses or other accommodation?
Yes. The 14 g size (hotel size) is designed for welcome baskets in tourist accommodation. We already work with businesses on La Gomera, such as Finca La Ladera. There is no fixed minimum order: the order and the unit price are agreed according to the volume each accommodation needs.
Can you customize products for weddings, companies or corporate gifts?
Yes. We have already developed custom collaborations; for example, with Basalto, for whom we make shower soaps in their own format (donuts) with special packaging. For this kind of custom order with a specific label or format, an annual volume commitment is usually requested, to cover the cost of the exclusive packaging.
Soap-making workshop
What does the soap workshop involve?
It is a two-hour guided experience in Valle Gran Rey, in which each participant makes their own handmade soap from a formula personalized to their skin type and scent preferences. It starts with a short questionnaire, the process is explained, the soaps are made with local ingredients from the farm, a herbal tea is served, and it finishes with packing the product and designing the label.
How long is the workshop and how much does it cost?
The workshop lasts two hours. The price is €100 for two people, and it includes all materials, aprons, a herbal tea, packaging, a personalized label and a recipe sheet so you can make the soap again at home.
Can I come alone?
The workshop is designed for two people: two is both the minimum and the maximum per session. You can book alone or as a pair; if you come alone, the price for two people applies.
Is there a minimum age?
Yes, the minimum age to take part in the workshop is 12.
What languages is the workshop held in?
The workshop is held in Spanish and German. English is also possible at a conversational level.
Which days and times are available?
The workshop is available all year round, both in summer and in winter. The recommended times are in the morning, from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m., to avoid the hottest hours. There is also a 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. slot in cooler seasons, or in the afternoon depending on availability.
How far in advance do I need to book?
We recommend booking at least one week in advance, so we can prepare the personalized materials for each participant’s skin type.
How do I pay for the workshop? Is a deposit required?
Yes, half of the price is paid as a deposit when you book. The rest is paid on the day of the workshop.
What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel or change the date of the workshop up to the day before at no cost, with the deposit moved to the new date. For later cancellations (on the same day), 50% of the amount is retained, because the personalized materials have already been prepared.
Do I take the soap home the same day?
Not ready for immediate use: the soap needs a curing period after it is made. It is handed over properly wrapped, with clear instructions on when to start using it, and with the personalized label that each participant designs during the session.
What should I bring to the workshop?
Just a desire to enjoy yourself. Aprons are included, and the workshop provides the materials, plants and oils. Comfortable clothes are always a good idea.
Can the workshop be combined with a visit to the farm?
Yes, it is a common and highly recommended combination: you can visit the farm where the plants are grown before or after the workshop, to see the origin of the ingredients first-hand.
Is the workshop accessible for people with reduced mobility?
The workshop space is currently not wheelchair accessible. For people with reduced mobility who can walk with support, we recommend contacting us beforehand via WhatsApp so we can assess each case. The space does not have an accessible restroom.
Is caustic soda handled in the workshop?
No. No caustic soda (lye) is handled in the workshop. We start from a ready-made glycerin base, to which each participant adds plants, essential oils and mineral colorants. That is why it is a safe activity from age 12.
Sustainability and philosophy
Are the products biodegradable?
Yes, the products are biodegradable under normal conditions of use (household drains). This does not mean, however, that they are suitable for direct use in the sea, rivers, puddles or natural pools: out of respect for La Gomera’s protected environment, we always recommend rinsing in suitable facilities and not using cosmetic products, even natural ones, directly in natural areas.
Is the packaging plastic-free?
The soaps are wrapped in recyclable kraft cardboard, without plastic. The deodorant and the calendula ointment come in reusable aluminum jars or glass jars, depending on size.
Where do the base oils of the products come from?
The aromatic plants (calendula, lavender, rosemary, sage, mint) are grown on our own farm in Valle Gran Rey. The base vegetable oils (olive, coconut, shea) come from European suppliers with certified cosmetic standards. The specific essential oils vary depending on harvest and supplier.
What is La Gomera Nature Box’s relationship with the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism?
La Gomera Nature Box takes part in sustainable tourism initiatives on La Gomera, aligned with the philosophy of the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism (ECST) of Garajonay National Park and its surroundings. The brand champions local consumption, its own cultivation, reducing plastic waste and experiences that highlight the island’s natural heritage.