The Top Trends in Spa and Wellness for 2023

As a spa or wax studio owner, staying up to date on the latest trends in the industry is key to success. In this blog post, we'll take a look at the top trends in spa and wellness for 2023, focusing specifically on luxury spas and wax studios.

1. Virtual wellness services will continue to grow in popularity. With the COVID-19 pandemic leading to the rise of virtual services in many industries, it's likely that the trend will continue in the spa and wellness space. Offer virtual spa services such as virtual facials or virtual yoga classes to meet the demand for remote wellness options. Of course, nothing can ever replace the experience of coming to a spa in person! But offering virtual services can help you retain and attract customers with busy schedules or those who need to remain vigilant.

2. Self-care and self-care products will continue to be popular. The focus on self-care and self-care products is not going away anytime soon. Offer a range of self-care products such as skincare, bath and body products, and home spa kits to meet the demand for these types of products.

3. Sustainable and eco-friendly practices will be more important than ever. With a growing focus on the environment and sustainability, it's likely that consumers will be looking for spas and wax studios that prioritize eco-friendly practices. Consider using products from companies like Box Naturals, which are formulated with natural ingredients and are free from harsh chemicals, as well as adopting sustainable practices such as using reusable towels and linens.

4. Personalized experiences will be in demand. Consumers are looking for more personalized and tailored experiences, and this trend is likely to continue in the spa and wellness industry. Consider offering customizable treatments or personalized skincare regimens to meet the demand for unique and personalized experiences.

5. The use of CBD and other alternative therapies will continue to grow. The use of alternative therapies such as CBD and acupuncture has been on the rise in recent years, and this trend is likely to continue in the spa and wellness industry. Consider offering treatments and services that incorporate these therapies to meet the demand for alternative approaches to wellness.

By staying up to date on these trends and adapting your offerings to meet the changing needs and preferences of your clients, you can ensure the success of your spa or wax studio in 2023. Don't forget to consider incorporating products from companies like Box Naturals, which are formulated with natural ingredients and are free from harsh chemicals, into your offerings to meet the demand for sustainable and eco-friendly products. 
Explore our cleansing towelettes for luxury spas today!

Looking for Alcohol Free Hand Sanitizing Wipes? Go Natural!

The best alcohol free hand sanitizer wipe is one that you can use without worrying about whether or not it’s effective. If you are looking for a natural alternative to alcohol based hand sanitizer wipes, then you have come to the right place!

While alcohol based hand sanitizer wipes are good for keeping your hands clean when washing them with soap and water isn't possible or practical, they also contain chemicals like ethyl alcohol (also known as ethanol) which can dry out your skin, cause irritation, and even damage your liver if used too often. 

So is there an option for keeping the germs away that doesn’t include alcohol? Absolutely! Here’s what you need to know.

Are Alcohol Free Antibacterial Wipes Effective?

Yes! 

In fact, they work so well that they've been scientifically proven to reduce the spread of germs and bacteria. The best alcohol free hand sanitizing option is not a spray or liquid; rather, it’s a wipe, which helps dislodge dirt, grime, and germs from your skin. 

So, where can you find these alcohol free wipes? Look no further than Box Naturals. We offer several alcohol free hand sanitizer wipe options, including Rose, Lavender and the unscented Cucumber + Witch Hazel.

Why Choose an Alternative?

If you want to avoid using alcohol based hand sanitizer wipes because it's drying out your hands, then you should consider going natural instead. There are many different options available for those who are looking for an alcohol free alternative to alcohol based hand cleaning wipes, including those from Box Naturals. Why else should you use alcohol free hand wipes?

Consider these 11 reasons:

 1. They don't leave behind any residue after being applied to the skin. This means that there will be no sticky feeling left on your hands afterwards.

2. They won't irritate your skin. Many alcohol based hand sanitizers contain ingredients that can cause irritation such as benzalkonium chloride.

3. They’re safe to use on even your most sensitive areas. Alcohol based wipes can be irritating for even your tough skin, but should absolutely never be used on thin, sensitive skin areas. At Box Naturals, with our pure and simple ingredients, you can use our alcohol free sanitizing wipes on even your most sensitive skin.

4. They're easy to apply. All you need to do is rub the wipes in between your fingers and thumbs for a thorough hand sanitizing.

5. They're environmentally friendly. At Box Naturals, our wipes are made from all-natural ingredients and are biodegradable.

6. They're safe for babies and children. Most of these products are organic and unnecessary ingredient-free.

7. They're easier to carry around. At Box Naturals, all of our wipes come individually wrapped, which means you can easily carry them when you’re on the go.

8. They're more convenient. You can just grab one whenever you need it without carrying around a large tub of wipes.

9. They're better for your health. Some people may experience headaches or dizziness after using alcohol based hand sanitizer wipes, but not with alcohol free hand wipes.

10. They're safer to use around pets. You don’t have to worry about your pet getting sick after coming into contact with alcohol based hand sanitizing solution.

11. They’re safe to use on even your most sensitive areas. Alcohol based wipes can be irritating for even your tough skin, but should absolutely never be used on thin, sensitive skin areas.

Go Natural!

At Box Naturals, we believe in natural and safe ways to keep clean. We list all of our ingredients on our site, including the moisturizing and pH balancing ingredients. This means our alcohol free hand sanitizer wipes are great to use on any part of your body that needs freshening up and sanitizing. We have the all natural alcohol free wipes you’re looking for. 

Fast Itch Relief: Best Itchy Coochie Wipes for Women

Have you ever been itchy? You know… down there?

If you have, you’re not alone. Many women suffer from itchy coochie, but don't know what to use to help alleviate the discomfort. A recent survey revealed that approximately 61% of American women experience vaginal itching an average of 17 times per year!

But just because this is a common experience, it doesn’t mean that you have to suffer through these symptoms. 

In this post, we’ll discuss how you can experience fast itch relief. But first, it’s important to understand what can cause itching in the first place.

Why is My Vag Itchy?

Vaginal itching is a common problem that can be caused by many different factors. Some of these include yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, dryness, hormonal changes, pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, etc. Another cause of itchiness in the vaginal area is shaving your pubic hair. 

Why is My Coochie Itchy After I Shave?

Shaving your pubic hair is a very popular practice nowadays. Many women enjoy shaving their pubic area because it makes them look younger and sexier. But, did you know that shaving your pubic area can lead to itching?

The reason why this occurs is because the razor cuts through the delicate skin of your pubic area. When you shave, you remove the top layer of skin, leaving thinner layers exposed. As a result, the outermost layer of skin becomes irritated and starts to shed. This causes the surface of your vagina to become rough and bumpy. Whatever the reason, the good news is that there are some great products on the market today that can help you get relief.

How Can I Make My Vag Not Itchy?

An itchy vagina is a common problem among women. Iif you feel like you need more natural remedies to reduce vaginal itching, here are some tips you can try out.

1. Keep yourself hydrated. Make sure you drink enough water.

2. Try to avoid wearing tight clothing and wear cotton panties instead of nylon ones.

3. Take care of your hygiene and apply moisturizer regularly.

4. Get regular checkups.

5. Don’t overuse tampons or pads.

If you're looking for something that will provide fast relief, then you may want to consider using  itchy vaginal wipes. These wipes have been specially formulated with natural ingredients that work to soothe your vagina while also providing soothing hydration. They contain organic aloe, which has anti-inflammatory properties and helps relieve irritation. At Box Naturals, we keep all of our products simple and natural for even your most sensitive areas. We offer several vaginal cleansing wipe options, including Lavender, Rose and the unscented Cucumber + Witch Hazel.

However, if you experience frequent bouts of itching, you should consult your doctor about it. He/she might prescribe you medication to treat the condition.

How can I Clean my Coochie Naturally?

To avoid the itchy coochie, keep it clean! There are many ways to clean your vagina naturally. Here are some tips to keep your vagina healthy and free from bacteria.

1. Wash your hands before touching your vagina.

2. Use warm water when washing your vagina.

3. Avoid wearing tight clothes.

4. Change your underwear often.

5. Drink plenty of fluids, especially water.

At Box Naturals, another benefit of our vaginal wipes is that they're made without any harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances. This means that they won't cause any damage to your sensitive skin and they'll leave no residue behind. Each wipe is individually wrapped, so you can easily and discreetly carry them with you.  Not only can our vaginal wipes soothe the itch, they can also keep your vagina cleaned, moisturized and pH balanced. Use them as often as needed to help ease the itch or to maintain a clean coochie and prevent the itch.

Post Waxing Wipes: Here’s What Luxury Spas Are Using

Waxing is one of the most thorough solutions to get rid of unwanted hair. In addition to evenly removing hair from small and large areas of the body, waxing also removes the hair from the root. This means that it will take longer for hair to grow back after waxing compared to shaving. 

If you’re considering waxing at home, then you’ll want to purchase post waxing wipes. 

When you wax unwanted hairs, it’s necessary to pull your skin taught and then quickly pull back the wax cloth. Since the hair is pulled completely from the roots, this can leave your skin feeling sensitive immediately afterwards. 

Good hygiene is critical to prevent potential infection, and post waxing wipes are important to help soothe irritated skin. This ensures that you get exactly what you want from your wax: healthy, smooth, and hair free skin.

But with so many wipes for after waxing available on the market, how do you know which ones to choose?

We’d like to recommend trying what luxury spas are using. If luxury spas are using it, you can rest assured that the towelettes have everything you’re searching for: soothing benefits for the skin, natural ingredients, great fragrances, and hygienic benefits.

What Are Post Waxing Wipes?

Immediately after a wax, your skin will be sensitive up to 24 to 36 hours after the procedure. Whether you wax at home or go to a spa, this is the normal aftermath of waxing.

While there’s a lot of advice around preparing for a wax, such as showering and exfoliating beforehand, there’s not as much advice about what to do after a wax. Aftercare is just as important. 

A post waxing wipe is important part of that aftercare. Consider some of the benefits:

• Safely remove wax residue. There will usually be some wax residue left on your skin. It’s not uncommon for wax to ooze out from under the strip and spread on the surrounding skin. Using a post waxing wipe can help you remove any wax residue that’s leftover without further irritating the skin.

• Cleans without alcohol. Can you imagine applying alcohol to your skin after hair removal? Ouch! At Box Naturals, our post waxing wipes are alcohol free and are pH-balanced, meaning that they’re safe for your hands, face, and all sensitive areas of the body. This is an excellent way to sanitize the newly-waxed region to prevent potential infection.

• Leaves you feeling refreshed. One of the best things about going to a spa is the atmosphere. From the comfortable background music to pleasant aromas, everything in the spa is designed to help you relax and rejuvenate. When you wax at home, you can still create that atmosphere. First, put on your favorite playlist. And after you wax, use a lightly scented post waxing wipe to clean up the area. The organic essential oils smell great and will lift your spirits.

After reading these benefits, it’s no wonder why hundreds of luxury SPAs and wax studios in the United States and Canada have chosen Box Naturals as their post waxing wipes of choice!

Why Luxury SPAs Choose Box Naturals

Each post waxing wipe is individually wrapped. This ensures that the wipe is fresh and moist when you need it most. It also prevents contamination. Wipes that come from a single package are exposed to the elements every time that the pack is opened. Individual wipes, on the other hand, are protected thanks to their packaging. 

Perhaps the most important consideration is to choose something that is safe for your skin. At Box Naturals, our posting waxing wipes are alcohol free, paraben free, and specifically formulated to be used on even the most sensitive skin. 

The best part?

These are more than just post waxing wipes. You can use them after a workout or to remove makeup. You can use them to clean your privates before a romantic rendezvous. International travel flight? No worries – just pack one of our wipes with you!

They’re convenient, multi-faceted, and will add a touch of luxury and comfort to your life!
Order from Box Naturals today!

Should You Use Post Workout Body Wipes After the Gym? Yes!

There’s no better feeling than getting in a good workout, but sometimes it’s tough to squeeze gym time into our day. 

From busy work schedules to family duties to social time with friends, finding time to go to the gym can be a challenge, especially if you factor-in a post-gym shower. After all, no one wants to continue the rest of their day drenched in sweat and worried about body odor. 

This is why more and more people are considering post workout body wipes. They save you time, are easy to pack into a gym bag, and leave you feeling clean and refreshed. 

But are after workout body wipes actually sanitary? Can you confidently continue about your day without worrying about whether or not you smell? And are disposable body wipes safe for the environment? 

Yes! Here’s what you need to know.

How BOX Naturals Post Workout Body Wipes Get the Job Done

The secret is choosing the right body wipe. 

One of the most commonly asked questions on Google is “can adults use baby wipes after a workout?” Technically you can use baby wipes, but that doesn’t mean it’s the best solution for you. Think about it this way: you can clean up from the gym using nothing but a paper towel, but will that really get the job done?

While baby wipes are good and are safe for adults, it’s important to remember that they are created specifically for babies. On the other hand, choosing adult wipes will provide you with larger, stronger, and specially formulated solutions for your hygienic needs, especially… you know, down there. 

Instead, it’s better to choose post workout towelettes that are individually wrapped for adults. At BOX Naturals, our wipes are pH balanced and 100% biodegradable! Our wipes are also paraben free and alcohol free, ensuring that women and men with sensitive skin can use our wipes without any worry. 

As our name suggests, our towelettes are also free of synthetic fragrances, using only natural ingredients for your health and hygiene. 

Here are some reasons why our customers consider us the best body wipes for after a workout:

• Individually wrapped. This ensures that the wipes are always fresh and moist for your needs! Simply slip a wipe into your purse or gym bag, and you’re good to go. You don’t have to worry about a bulky package or container that you have to carry around.

• Safe for your face. After workout wipes for your body aren’t always safe for your face. Remember, the skin on your face is more sensitive than the rest of your body. Fortunately, our wipes can also be used as after workout face wipes. Because our wipes are paraben free, alcohol free, and only include natural ingredients such as essential oils, they are a great option for both your face and body.

• Can be used on workout equipment. Good hygiene isn’t just limited to your body. It’s also important to clean your workout equipment for others as well as yourself before dirt, germs, and grime have the chance to build up. Simply wipe down your equipment with our post workout body wipes. Wondering how to clean a Lululemon yoga mat? Simply wipe down, allow a few seconds to dry, then store your yoga mat as needed.

• Much quicker than a shower. Are you going to the gym during your lunch break? Is your schedule busy with limited time to shower in-between errands? Post workout body wipes are an excellent alternative to showering. Lightly scented with organic essential oils, these after workout wipes will allow you to go about your day without having to worry about whether or not you smell like the gym. You’ll feel fresh and rejuvenated after wiping with our towelettes!

These are just some of the many benefits of purchasing our post workout body wipes. There’s a reason people who order from us tend to re-order again! 

Should You Wipe Your Sweat After a Workout?

Like all good questions, context matters. If you’re returning to the office after a lunch break workout, then yes, you’ll want to use post workout body wipes to freshen up. You can use them on your face, all over your body, and yes, even down there. Our eco-friendly wipes are designed for all skin types, including those with sensitive skin. 

However, there are some cases when you shouldn’t wipe your sweat. For example, if you’re walking home from a workout and won’t have immediate access to air conditioning, you won’t want to wipe away your sweat unless you’re drenched. Why? Because sweat is a mechanism for your body to naturally cool down. As sweat evaporates from your skin, excess heat from your body will dissipate with it.

If you’re inside or otherwise have access to air conditioning (such as from your car), then this isn’t as much of an issue.

When it comes to post workout body wipes, it’s better to get wipes that are specifically designed for adults. One of the most common questions we see is: Can you use baby wipes post workout?

Yes, you “can,” but wouldn’t you rather have the best wipes for post workout that leave you feeling and smelling fresh? Our wipes even allow you to remove makeup, so you can reapply makeup for the rest of the day. They’re even perfect for travel and romantic rendezvous.

As we like to say: They’re perfect anytime, anywhere!

Godes Beauty Box for Women of Color

We're thrilled to be included in the Godes Beauty Box this month! Godes Beauty was created to help women of color to discover the best of beauty. They search the world to find the best products from leading companies as well as collaborate with new niche brands to create the ultimate beauty discovery experience. If you're a Woman of Color looking for a little help discovering new beauty brands and products, get to know a little more about Godes! We spoke with the founder of Godes Beauty, Catina, to learn a little more about the woman behind the brand. 

Where did the name "Godes Beauty" come from?

When I was thinking about a name for my company, I wanted it to be something that really embodied the true essence of a woman in a few but impactful words. After a weekend of brainstorming, daydreaming and research, the definition of “Goddess” really described was I wanted my company to be and say. I played around with the spelling a few times and added beauty to the name and in September 2015 Godes Beauty was born.

What inspired you to start a subscription box?

Since 2010, I have been a subscriber of a major beauty subscription company however, as time went on, I noticed more and more that the products I was receiving weren’t for me or my beauty needs. Most of the time, I would throw the products away which was really disappointing because I loved getting a box in the mail every month. So in 2014,a light bulb went off, I would create my own beauty box and curate it with products that I would want to try and that would cater to my beauty needs. I did  a lot of research and soul searching and in 2015, I finally had the guts to just do it and introduced Godes Beauty to the world.

What do you look for when choosing items to include in each box?

The deciding factor for choosing items for the box is “will the customer use it?”  I try to choose items that really solve a beauty issue or that are new, and exciting.

Do you have a New Year's resolution for 2016?

My New Year’s resolution is to make more moves and less announcements.  Last year was all about starting Godes Beauty and telling everyone my plans, etc. This year is about execution and just doing. 

The Benefits of Lavender Essential Oils

If you like lavender, you’re not alone. It’s the most used essential oil in the world. Even the Ancient Egyptians were fans – lavender was commonly used as perfume.

Lavender essential oil is extracted mostly from the flower, primarily through steam distillation. With antimicrobial and antioxidant characteristics, lavender essential oil has various benefits for your skin.

We’ve all been tempted by the reviews of those natural lavender pillow spray that are supposed to soothe you into the blissful slumber of an ambien, minus the actual ambien. (It’s been proven – a study on college students found that using lavender oil improved the overall quality of sleep by 60%.) But lavender essential oil is good for so much more than simply putting you to sleep. It also:

•    Reduces anxiety and emotional stress

•    Heals burns and wounds

•    Improves sleep

•    Restores skin complexion and reduces acne

•    Slows aging with powerful antioxidants

•    Improves eczema and psoriasis

•   Alleviates headaches

Happily Scented

Last year we had the incredible luck to be included in a Petit Vour subscription box. Not only was it a thrill to work with the PV team, women across the US had a chance to try our natural, vegan towelettes. When the subscription boxes shipped out, we were glued to Instagram. Subscribers were uploading gorgeous shots of the contents of the PV box, our towelettes included! Then a negative review landed like a dropped bowling ball.

Although our towelettes were deemed “fine” our intentions for making them were not. Because we make scented products, it was implied that BOX Naturals was anti-woman in that “this is another thing women have to do to be considered attractive.”

The reason we’re scented is simple. When the ingredients in our natural, gentle formula are blended together, it creates a scent. To neutralize that and get a scent-free wipe, our only option is to use a harsh chemical mixture. That’s completely against what we stand for as a company and simply put, it's not worth the risk of using chemicals. 

Instead we use just enough of the best organic essential oils to create a pleasant smell. Rose and lavender essential oils both have beneficial properties – they’re soothing and good for your skin and your mood. We're not making mango-grapefruit-whipped cream towelettes because we’d have to use volatile parfum molecules, which could end up reacting with sensitive skin.

Our goal has always been to provide women with the most natural product possible, using a few ingredients as we can. Our light, natural scents are not designed to leave a lasting impression.

As a company, we’re as far from the patriarchy as you can get. Our founder, Irene, is a Wellesley grad who worked on Wall Street, had two babies and started her own company. I am a fiercely independent, globe-wandering Brand/Strategy Specialist – and we are both proud feminists. 

We believe women should smell how they naturally smell, or however they want to smell. That’s not what BOX Naturals is about. We’re simply providing something we couldn’t find ourselves, a natural alternative to the towelettes that are out there, that are gentle enough to use however you want from head to toe. :)

Make up Bag Essentials Spring Edition

A month into spring, and finally, the weather seems to have gotten the memo. What's in our makeup bag this season? Well, there's the usual - a pressed powder to the shine level at "dewy," a few BOX Naturals (of course), and more than a few pink things. 

We're loving this make up bag - the perfect size to throw in your bigger bag, or this bag, one of the best travel bags we've found bc it has two clear TSA approved eco-zip bags for liquids.

Take a peek inside, and you'll find:  

Glitter Polish (to better hide mani chips with!)

SuperGoop! Sun's out, sunscreen's out. 

Like, LITERALLY, the best shade of pink for cheeks.  And we love the packaging, too!

Simply Gum!  Made with fewest ingredients possible and no synthetic flavors.  Finally, a gum after our own heart!

Rose and Mandarin Lip Gloss from one of our favorite companies, Rosbud Perfume Co. 

Matcha Powder Packs - Organic Green Tea on the go, free of sugar, flavorings, and colorants.  Just pure antioxidant power in your purse.  

So there you have it.  What's in your purse this spring?  

Why pH is Important in Skincare

Ok – show of hands:  How many of you know what the pH in “pH balanced” stands for? 

It’s a buzzword that we hear all the time, but did you know that pH stands for potential hydrogen? Wait! Don’t fall asleep!  You need to know this!

Next question:  what the heck does that mean?  Well, A pH number (from 0 to 14) measures how acidic or alkaline a liquid is -- anything above 7 is alkaline and anything below 7 is acid.  Water, has a pH of 7 – makes intuitive sense – we all think of water as neutral.  Did you know that your SKIN has a pH, too? 

Skin has a pH of 5.5.  This means, that on the pH scale, it is considered slightly acidic.  Weird to think of your skin as acidic, huh?  But the outermost layer of our skin is protected by sebum, yup, the stuff that can clog your pores and break you out on Picture Day.  Sebum mixes with the amino and lactic acids from sweat to create an ideal pH of 5.5.  Remember this number. You might be tested on it later (wasn't it awesome when your teachers gave you a freebie like this?) 

This sebum sweat mix (delightful sounding) is important because it helps retain your moisture and keep germs out.  If you want to keep this layer of protection, you need to put stuff on your skin that is similar to your skin’s pH.  Bar soap, typically has a pH of 9-12, making your skin tight and dry.  And it’s a pretty good idea to stay away from Sodium Laureth Sulfate, which has a pH level of 10 (again, drying!). Instead, choose cleansers that has a pH closer to your skin's pH..what's that number?  That's right:  5.5!  You just scored an A on this quiz.  

BOX Naturals Luxe Towelettes have a pH of 5.5 – that is, exactly your skin’s pH so go ahead, use it everywhere. As we like to say, hands, faces and special places!

You Spoke, We Listened

The really good thing about being a small business (some might even say 'tiny'), is that we get every single piece of feedback that comes our way. Good or bad, we hear it. And on the extremely rare occasion we hear something negative, it keeps us up at night! Yes, that's a good thing – because it makes us better.

Our goal from Day One of BOX Naturals has been to provide women with a simple, beautiful natural towelette. In the past two years we've had a handful of emails with the same complaints: 
1. Too 'sudsy'
2. Too sticky
3. Too strongly scented

That's too many 'too's' for us, so we set about making BOX Naturals better. The tricky thing was, so many of our customers loved us as we were, so here's what we did – we're using the same premium ingredients, but in different quantities so our towelettes are lighter in feel (down with stickiness!) and lighter in scent. Yes, we have reformulated and it feels so good!

It took a few months to get things just right, but we feel confident enough to say that BOX Naturals are 'New And Improved!' And we sincerely hope you love the changes. If you'd like to try them without committing to an entire box, for a limited time you can purchase a trial pack in the shop for $1.29 (and free shipping).

Oh and there's one more thing. You may have noticed that we're no longer 'Intimate Wipes' – we're now 'Luxe Towelettes.' This is also a result of customer feedback. Women have been writing in to tell us just how handy they find our individually wrapped towelettes. For removing makeup, cleaning hands, instead of a shower after a yoga class, spot-cleaning silk blouses, wiping down yoga mats... it goes on and on! So yes, hands, faces and special places are just the start of where you can use our better than ever BOX Naturals Luxe Towelettes!

And as for that feedback? Please keep it coming! Good or bad, we are grateful for every. single. email. 

4 Natural Australian Beauties

Australia is a beautiful land, full of beautiful people. It's also chock full of green body care products. We loaded up our suitcase with goodies, but there are four that really stand out as favorites we'll purchase again and again. We're not so sure any of these are easily available in the States, but it just might be the excuse we need to take another trip down under! If you know of any Australian green beauty/body care products we missed, please tell us about them in the comments.

1. Natural Instinct Energizing Body Wash
This body wash is all natural and made with lemon grass, ginger, gingko and acai. It has been a game changer for mornings because it makes you smell like you're showering in a drizzle of ginger ale with a squeeze of lemon. It's the perfect way to wake up and feel excited about your day. 

2. Suvana Certified Organic Paw Paw & Honey Balm
It can be difficult to find a multi-use balm that's petrochemical and fragrance free. This one does it for us. It's a great consistency, not too thick or waxy, and we use it all over. 

3. Sukín Certified Organic Rose Hip Oil
This is simply organic rose hip oil in a little glass bottle. Perfect for smoothing over your face after a shower, before putting on eye cream and night cream. It is absorbed completely and gives our skin a great dewy, hydrated feeling the next day. Also great for that long haul flight. And the price point is seriously great, too.

4. Antipodes Deliverance Kowhai Flower Hand Cream
Made with nutrient-rich avocado oil, sweet orange and cedar wood, this luxurious hand cream smells exactly how you think it would. To us it's the gentle scent of an orange, with a touch of chamomile and some spice from the cedar. It's not greasy at all, but will keep your hands beautifully hydrated throughout the day. 

Smoothie Game Strong: Do You Maca?

It seems like every season, a new must have item hits the shelves of health food stores. Just when you think you're at the top of your smoothie game, BAM, there's something new and life-changing that Gwyneth has been drinking for yonks and you're only just finding out about now. Thanks for cluing us in, GOOP! (We love you.) 

Maca is a new (to us) miracle plant that's grown at high altitudes in Peru. It's part of the radish family and has been called "Peruvian Ginseng." It's so effective, you're not supposed to have it every day. Just a tablespoon (and you should build up to that, starting with half a teaspoon) every second or third day. 

It's great for your skin and is rich in vitamins, but the real kicker here is how beneficial Maca is for women. It helps with menstrual issues and menopausal issues, stabilizing moods and alleviating pain. It also give you a sustained boost of energy. Some of that energy being focused... in the bedroom. Yes! It's widely used to boost libido and increase endurance (for men and women). So if you need a boost in that department (hey, we've all been there), maybe you can slip some Maca into your honey's milkshake.

There are a few Maca no no's. Don't mix it with anything hot or it will lose its benefits. Don't consume if you are pregnant or nursing, or if you have serious pre-existing conditions. Basically, if you're already seeing a doctor about something, ask her/him if it's ok to introduce Maca into your diet. It's a bit complicated, but it sounds, and so far feels, like it's worth it. 

And all this when we literally JUST got the hang of Chia seeds. Um, did anyone else experience near Death By Chia Seeds? We added them to a delicious smoothie – almond milk, berries, half a frozen banana, vegan protein powder... Yum, right? We blended everything up and took a big gulp, then had to suffer through choking down a mouth full of splinters. Yeah, we kept drinking it, even as we pictured a thousand tiny shards of Chia wood poking holes in our esophagus. We were hungry and it was the only edible thing in the house! Since then we've learned to soak the chia seeds in almond milk a few hours before smoothie time, then stir the resulting pudding into the smoothie AFTER it's been mixed. Unless you really like the sound of a splinter shake, then go for it! ;)

5 Things No One Tells You About Becoming a Parent

In 2011, I had my first child.  Shortly thereafter, I created BOX Naturals because I quickly realized that after a woman births a child, the kid is not the only being in need of all natural wipes.  Copious amounts of wipes.  The only thing I could think about was – “WHY did no one tell me this?”

I’ll tell you why.  Women forget in order to propagate the human race.  If we didn’t forget all of the annoying things leading up to and after childbirth, well, friends, humanity would come to a screeching halt.

Well, I didn’t forget.  Consider me the friend that straight up tells you that yes, you did gain weight, or that your outfit looks like it’s from the ‘80’s and not in a good way.

Five Things You Need To Know About Becoming a Parent:

1.     The time you’ll most need a vacation is right after you give birth.  Unfortunately, that is when you can basically kiss your current idea of “vacation” goodbye.

2.     Sometimes, you will want to stuff  your kid back where it came from.  Everyone feels this way, so lose the mom guilt.

3.     It can take a long time to feel a bond with your baby.  Everyone talks about the instant bond that they felt with their babies.  Well, guess what, it doesn’t always happen right away.  Just because it came out of you, doesn’t mean that the crying, red-faced Mr. Magoo they hand you is something you intrinsically understand.  A bond can take weeks or months to form, and…it’s OK!

4.     You will hoard mesh undies like that time we all thought Twinkies were going out of business. Chances are, you are currently wearing a cute Hanky Panky thong.  Or a little boy short. Perhaps a practical cotton bikini cut brief. Chances are, you are NOT wearing baggy mesh underwear (no judgment if you are.  Well, maybe a little judgment).  These little gems will be given to you after you’ve had your baby by the hospital. STEAL AS MANY AS YOU CAN.  If you had a c-section, these undies will lay forgivingly over your incision.  If you birthed naturally, these undies will hang loose below your tender lady parts.   They are magic and you will want to make sweet love to them.  Because you sure won’t want to make love to anything else for a long time. 

5.     You will never sleep like a normal person again.  Even when your kid does eventually sleep through the night, sleeping with the monitor pressed up against your ear will have trained your ear to hear as keenly as a blind bat.  Every single creak, every little mouse sigh, and you will pop up like a prairie dog who smells danger.  Or, you will fling your arm across your baby daddy’s face and say, “Your turn.”   

Since I probably slapped you hard with the truth, I will end with another truth:  It is all worth it.  It may not feel like it at first.  It may not feel like it all the time, but there will be those moments (usually when the kids are sleeping) when you think “Maybe we should try for another…” Becoming a parent has made me a better person because it forced me to be the person my children think I am:  the smartest, kindest, bravest, funniest person in their world.  

Fast Winter Fixes

WHEEEEEEEEEE!!! 

Oh, Winter.  We've had enough of you.  Please go.  And we mean that in the nicest way.  

We wish it were that easy, but since it's not, here are five ways you can use BOX towelettes to help survive the remaining weeks (months?!) of winter...

1. Winter = dry, cracked lips if you’re not careful. Use a BOX Naturals towelette to remove the remains of your lipstick, then lather on a natural, soothing tinted balm like Tata Harper's Be Adored Lip Treatment.  

2. Wearing a hat is so essential to keeping warm, but it can also lead to static hair! Use a BOX Naturals towelette to smooth down flyways. 

3. Buy a Chestnut Praline Latte (or even Pumpkin Spice) to keep warm.  But if you spill a bit (that's what happens when you can't feel your fingers), you can use a BOX Naturals towelette to wipe away the stain. One of our customers even emailed us to say she tried a towelette to clean up a spill on her silk blouse – it worked like a charm!  Just remember, dab, don't rub (this piece of advice applies to a lot of things - eye cream, cream blush, spilled red wine...)

4. Too many hot showers can really dry out your skin. If you don’t really need a shower (or are just running short on time), try a quick freshen up with a towelette, instead.  A customer who shall remain nameless once said, “Who needs showers when you have BOX Naturals?!?”  We know she was joking, but we love the enthusiasm, and it really works when you're in a pinch!

and...our favorite BOX Naturals towelette winter remedy...

5. Pack it in your carryon when you escape to a tropical beach!

Hang in there - Spring's around the corner!

Smoothie + BOX Naturals

We wanted to know more about Yoshie, the dynamic powerhouse behind Smoothie Waxing Salon in Osaka, Japan. Smoothie is our newest retailer and officially the farthest BOX Naturals have ever been from home (hello, San Diego). We couldn't be more pleased to be part of Smoothie's offering, or to meet Yoshie. For the scoop on waxing trends in Japan AND insider tips on where to shop and get the best cocktail, read on!

Tell us a little about yourself!

I'm from Osaka originally, when I was 15, I moved to England to go to a boarding school, then on to university where I studied physics. After I finished university, I came back to Japan and worked in several different companies.

After spending 6 years in Japan, I decided to change my career completely and help with my family business which we have been operating for 65 years - spa, restaurants, capsule hotels. Before joining my family business, I went back to London to study beauty therapy because our main part of the business is spa. I spent anther 4 years in England then came back to Japan to join my family company.

Now, I work as a managing director of New Japan (http://newjapan.co.jp/) with my brother. I started a waxing salon SMOOTHIE in 2010, set up my own company and became a sole distributor of French depilatory brand "Perron Rigot" in 2013. My next plan is to open a salon in Tokyo and look for different products to sell/distribute in Japan.

How did you get into Waxing?

I went to a beauty college in London in 2004 and took a CIDESCO International qualification. It was then that I learned about waxing. Other beauty treatments were all familiar to me but waxing was something that I had never heard of in Japan. I worked in a spa and a beauty salon in London after getting qualified, got some hands on experience during that time. I returned to Japan in 2008, realised that there weren't many salons that offered waxing service.

I opened a waxing salon in Osaka, Japan in 2010, originally targeting western people living in Osaka but within a year, waxing has started getting popular so now I have both Japanese and Western clients coming in.

What are your customers like? Are they mostly Japanese or other nationalities?

60% - Japanese, 40% - Foreigners, mostly western people who live and work in Osaka. Occasionally I get random tourists coming in. 50% of my customers are male.

 How popular is hair removal in Japan?

Hair removal including Laser, IPL, Electrolysis and waxing is very popular. IPL treatments are very reasonable now a days so most people treat their unwanted hair by IPL or Laser. Waxing has become popular few years ago, with the influence of "Sex And The City" and some celebrities talking about "Brazilian waxing". Most clients come to my salon to do Brazilian waxing - completely bare style is most popular for both men and women. There aren't many salons that allow male customers, usually waxing salons are only for women.

 What is your favorite place to eat in Osaka?

I have few different places for food. For Sushi, Kitarozushi. For Teppanyaki, Gekko Kamen. For Roast dinner - my favourite! - Viento. For cocktails - Cafe Absinthe.

 What about shopping?

For clothes/shoes, I go to department stores such as Takashimaya and Hankyu. But to avoid crowd, I tend to go online for shopping - Net-a-porter, Matchesfashion.

The Best NYE Ever: The One Where You Stay Home

You might have noticed a storm of sparkly dresses, fancy mani’s and elegantly messy up-do’s happening over on Pinterest. It can only mean one thing – New Year’s Eve draws close! In the past we’ve shelled out big bucks to attend glamorous parties, schlepped our way through massive crowds of drunk strangers and hosted or attended small parties with friends. This year, all of that feels like a mighty amount of work. So instead of all that, we're staying home. It might just end up being the best NYE ever, and here's why:

Attire. While sequins and sparkles that seem to be a requirement this year just aren’t that comfy, we’re still totally down for a bit of pizzazz (also, pizza) – even if no one else sees it. Enter loungewear. Silky slips, sets and robes designed for the modern day luxurious lady. Of course, we love all of Journelle's loungewear, and don't forget about the fancy shoe options! You can be comfy, glamorous and most importantly, comfy. ;)

Cuisine. Haute Cuisine, Lean Cuisine, takeout, leftovers, a box of popsicles. Whatever you feel like having. To us, the fanciest food of all is hors devours – we can see ourselves picking up some of our favorites at Trader Joe's and fixing a little platter. There will (of course) be a separate dessert platter, along the same vein. Unless you're buying the world's largest truffle to shave over your tater tots, chances are you'll still save money and make healthier choices than you would going out.

Company. When you're standing in the middle of Times Square with thousands of rowdy strangers, you don't get to have much say over the company you keep, or how many times you get elbowed in the chest. Enter the most exclusive place in town: your home on NYE. It can be just you, you and a partner, furry friends, human friends, parents... whatever. As long as you don't feel the urge to put makeup on, and you know you'll make each other laugh.

Libations. If we liked the taste of smoky bourbon, we'd drink it, but the truth is we want champagne cocktails (and we want them now)! The fruitier, the better. These are two we'll definitely be trying on New Year's  – click on the image to see the recipes. (Are you as obsessed with those gorgeous champagne glasses on the left as we are?)

Entertainment. You could have the TV set so the countdown plays in the background. You could turn off all devices. Watch Netflix. Play Candy Crush. Take a long, long bath. Play music. Watch Breaking Bad from the start. 

Self Care. It's all about you. If putting on a face full of make up on makes you happy – by all means do that. We'll refer you to the green beauty blogs we read for more specifics on products. There's the Green Product Junkie, Beauty by Britanie and The Organic Life Blog, to name a few. We'll end up using a combination of products (Beauty Guru Lisa Eldridge approves of layering) to start 2015 off flawless. Tata Harper offers an amazing array of skincare samples for $11. And everything on Eco Diva Beauty is perfection but we do love the honey mud treatment. 

All in all, saving yourself from the pressure of having the perfect NYE is really priceless. Taking care of yourself and putting what you want first is, too. (Do you feel a New Year Resolution brewing here?) No matter how you spend your NYE, we hope you spending it laughing and feeling loved. We wish you all happiness and health in 2015 – the best year yet!

Cabaret for a Cause + BOX Naturals

We've pledged to donate a percentage of our proceeds to charities, and when Tiffany Schleigh reached out to us about her non-profit organization, Cabaret for a Cause, we knew it was something we wanted to help out with immediately. Here's a little more about what this charity does, and advice (from an expert!) for anyone who's looking to give back a little more in 2015. 

Tell us about Cabaret for a Cause.

Cabaret for a Cause is a tri-annual event that was created in 2010. We bring together young professionals from Broadway, film, and television to help other young people in need! 

This event is helping Project Renewel. Can you tell us more about that? 

We are specifically working with Project Renewal's housing program for homeless families, En Casa. Each night in New York City alone, over 20,000 homeless children sleep in shelters. Project Renewal created En Casa just two years ago to help families and give them a safe haven to raise their children in and turn their lives around. It is pretty incredible! With Cabaret for a Cause, we try to stress the importance of giving back with all of the performers and the audience. The performers and their families and friends have been collecting clothing, books, toys and so much more for the past month - so not only will we be giving a monetary donation, but we have an entire moving truck full of items for these families. We hope it makes their holiday season a little brighter! 

How do you choose the charities Cabaret for a Cause helps?  

We choose programs that directly help children. In the coming years, we plan to do three annual events: one for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (this is the first cause we ever supported and it is very dear to my heart), one for Project Renewal/En Casa, and the third one will be based on suggestions from our audience members! There are so many worthy causes that we want to help!

Tell us how you became inspired to start/join Cabaret for a Cause. 

It's kind of a funny story! It started out really small. I had a couple of friends in college who had been in Broadway shows and just wanted a reason to perform in their free time, so we started it as a weekly event in a restaurant! There wasn't even a stage - just a keyboard and a microphone. When the weather was warm, the restaurant would open all of the windows and people would stop in their tracks on the sidewalk to hear the performers. It became bigger and bigger, so the restaurant manager suggested we start collecting donations for his favorite cause… St. Jude Children's Research Hospital! We continued to expand, we moved from the restaurant to the attic of a bar, then to a blackbox theatre, then to a small theatre, and finally to our "home" - Galapagos Art Space. 

Do you have any advice for people who want to give back more in 2015? Whether it’s donating time or money…

There are so many ways everyone can help! Donating money is so easy to do, but it is also easy to volunteer! It is also SO important to encourage children to give back. Spread love and kindness to the future generations! 

What’s next for C4AC?

Well, we plan on officially becoming a non-profit company in 2015 and will begin planning events in different cities! Right now we are planning an event in Pennsylvania for the summer and may be planning on for Los Angeles in the spring! 

We wish Cabaret for a Cause the best of luck with their event! Keep an eye out for more from this lovely organization in the future. 

Whole Foods Standards? Check!

Whole Foods may be where Prius owners battle to the death for a tiny parking space, but it's also where you can go if you want to to buy safe and ethically sourced cosmetics and body care products.  We use, among other things, the Whole Foods Standards as a guideline when it comes to formulating our products. 

While the standards are very clear for labeling organic food, the standards for labeling natural or organic cosmetics and body care products are a little more fuzzy. In fact, there aren't many standards at all, especially when compared with those of Europe and Japan. Currently the Food and Drug Administration in America has banned only a small number of chemicals for use in cosmetics – around eleven.

Meanwhile, Whole Foods has a highly researched list of over 400 unacceptable ingredients that can be found here. Like us, they stay away from artificial colors, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, parfums and parabens. Here are a few facts from the Whole Foods blog, to help further paint the picture:

FACT: The U.S. government does not require health studies or pre-market testing for personal care products.

FACT: There are many non-natural components and processes in most U.S. body care products. Even those labeled "natural" may contain harsh preservatives or ingredients with environmental concerns.

FACT: Science never stops. Our customers trust us to stay on top of the latest breakthroughs, so the Premium standards are designed to evolve as new science-based studies and research come to light. We are excited to consider them as a starting point, a work in progress, an opportunity to raise the bar ever higher.

With BOX Naturals, our goal has always been to provide a natural alternative to the wipes and towelettes that are already out there, chock-full of not-so-natural and not-so-nice stuff. We recently stayed at a boutique hotel that provided individually wrapped makeup removal wipes. At first glance the ingredient list looked promising, because it was so short. We were shocked when the few ingredients included mineral oil and four or five parabens! There's just no need for that. We believe we can do better, and that's our goal, every day. No, we are not available at Whole Foods yet, but we hope to be part of what they offer in the future. And when that day comes, we will definitely let you know!