Welcome to the latest update in our journey of continuous innovation at Swell Labs! With the release of Swell Bar v2.4 on April 16th, we’ve implemented some exciting changes based on valuable community feedback collected during our last improvement cycle. Let’s dive into the updates that are shaping the way we approach sustainable personal care.
Refined Dimensions for Enhanced Usability
One common piece of feedback was about the Swell Bar’s diameter. While its unique shape was ergonomically pleasing for many, others found it cumbersome, particularly when traveling. After careful consideration and testing, we’ve found a middle ground that maintains the hexagonal form but reduces the diameter by 10%. This adjustment makes the bar more travel-friendly and easier to handle without sacrificing grip.
To compensate for the reduced diameter, we’ve increased the height of the bars by 15%. This new vertical form not only retains the bar’s volume but brings unexpected benefits. The refined shape allows for a thinner beeswax coating, enhancing the bar’s structural integrity and preventing beeswax debris in your plumbing—a concern some of you voiced in the past.
Innovations in Lather and Cleansing
The topic of lather generated considerable discussion. At Swell, our priority is to use simple, safe ingredients without unnecessary additives. While we avoid sulfates known for creating excessive foam, we recognize the desire for a satisfying lather. Our solution? A finer grain of Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (SCI), which has significantly improved lather quality without compromising our commitment to ingredient integrity.
However, we didn’t stop there. Our exploration into alternatives like Cocamidopropyl Betaine reaffirmed our commitment to avoid complex chemicals. Although it didn’t meet our standards, this investigation was crucial in refining our approach to creating a gentle yet effective cleansing experience.
Scent Adjustments and a New 'Naked' Option
Scent preferences among our community have varied widely, with some finding certain fragrances too strong. In response, we’ve slightly reduced the essential oil concentration in some formulations to achieve a more subtle scent profile.
Additionally, we're excited to announce the upcoming launch of a "Naked" Swell Bar. This version will be free from any plant extracts used for scent or color, catering to those who prefer an unscented and uncolored option. To ensure you still receive the benefits of natural antioxidants and vitamins, we’re incorporating unscented, color-free extracts into this bar. We expect this to be live by the end of the month.
Looking Ahead
These updates in Swell Bar v2.4 are just the beginning. We are committed to listening and adapting, ensuring each version of Swell Bar not only meets but exceeds your expectations. As we continue to innovate, your feedback remains a crucial part of our development process.
Thank you for being an active part of the Swell community. We look forward to your thoughts on these latest changes and to continuing our shared mission of providing eco-friendly, functional personal care options. Stay tuned for more updates, and get ready to experience the enhanced Swell Bar v2.4!