Kristen Dunning, a recent MBA graduate, pitched her natural soap brand, Gently Soap, on the season premiere of Shark Tank Season 15.
Gently Soap is made from plants and is designed to cleanse and soothe the skin, making it an ideal choice for individuals with sensitive skin.
Having struggled with Eczema her entire life, Kristen created this product to be safe for herself and others who require gentle skincare solutions.
Did Gently Soap get a deal on Shark Tank?
Find out all the details in our Gently Soap Shark Tank update and pitch recap…
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick overview of what happened to Gently Soap after Shark Tank:
Quick Summary
Kristen Dunning made her appearance on Shark Tank Season 15, securing a deal with Candace Nelson for $75,000 in exchange for 25% equity. As for the Gently Soap Shark Tank update, the company is still in business, with products now available through Thirteen Lune and BLK + GRN. Kristen has also recently been featured in Eco Parent Magazine, along with other prominent publications.
Table of Contents
Gently Soap On Shark Tank
| Shark | Result |
| Mark Cuban and Lori Greiner | Accepted deal of $250,000 for 20% stake, plus $250,000 loan for 6% interest. The stake will increase to 30% when sales hit $10 million and will increase again to 40% when sales hit $50 million |
| Kevin O’Leary | $500,000 as venture debt for 12% equity (Not Accepted) |
| Daymond John | No Offer |
| Candace Nelson | No Offer |
Gently Soap Shark Tank Deal
- Business: Chocolate brand with less sugar and calories
- Entrepreneurs: Ryan Bouton and Doug Bouton
- Asked For: $500,000 for 5% equity
- Shark Tank Deal: $250,000 for 20% equity, plus $250,000 as a loan for 6% interest. Stake increases to 30% at $10 million in sales, and again to 40% at $50 million in sales
- Shark: Mark Cuban and Lori Greiner
Gently Soap Company Info
Gently Soap Overview
Gently Soap is a line of natural soaps designed specifically for people with sensitive skin. Kristen Dunning, the founder, was motivated to create a skincare solution because of her personal struggle with eczema.
For years, Kristen struggled to find a soap that didn’t irritate her skin. After researching skincare and studying horticulture for 3 years, she discovered that plants could offer a more natural and effective way to soothe and clean the skin without causing irritation.
Unlike many other natural products on the market, which often contain essential oils or synthetic fragrances, Gently Soap is made with plant-based ingredients that are gentle on the skin.
This innovative approach has allowed Kristen to create a product that provides soothing aromas and effective skincare without harmful side effects.
With this unique formulation, Gently Soap aims to offer a safe alternative for the 71% of the population who suffer from sensitive skin, a condition that has been increasing in prevalence in recent decades.
Gently Soap Shark Tank Pitch Recap
Kristen Dunning, the founder of Gently Soap, presented her innovative product line to the Sharks in the season premiere of Shark Tank Season 15.
Her pitch was personal, compelling, and supported by impressive numbers, all reflecting the growing demand for gentle skincare solutions, especially for individuals with sensitive skin.
Let’s break down the details of Gently Soap Shark Tank Pitch, including Sharks’ offers, negotiations, and the outcome…
Gently Soap: A Solution To An Existing Problem
Kristen’s journey began with a personal struggle—battling eczema and other skin irritations throughout her life.
For years, she faced challenges finding skincare products that didn’t trigger her sensitive skin, particularly when it came to soaps and bath products.
Determined to create a solution, Kristen spent three years studying horticulture to understand how plants could help soothe and nourish sensitive skin without the harsh chemicals and fragrances found in most commercial skincare products.
Unlike many natural skincare options that rely on essential oils or synthetic fragrances—ingredients that can often irritate sensitive skin—Gently Soap is made using plant-based ingredients.
These offer a gentle, soothing aroma, free from harmful side effects, making the soap suitable for people with even the most sensitive skin.
Gently Soap Financials: Sales Breakdown
When it came time to present the numbers, Kristen highlighted some key facts that impressed the Sharks:
- Year-to-date sales: $113,000
- Previous year’s sales: $66,000
- Profit from those sales: $38,000
- Repeat customers: A whopping 78% of her orders came from repeat buyers, demonstrating customer loyalty and satisfaction.
Kristen launched Gently Soap in February 2021, and as of the time of filming, her brand was already seeing strong sales. She was also about to expand by launching on Amazon, which was a clear signal to the Sharks that Gently Soap was on the verge of broader market penetration.
Kristen explained that 71% of the population suffers from sensitive skin, and this percentage had grown by 55% over the past 20 years, indicating a significant and growing market for gentle skincare products.
Shark Tank Gently Soap Cost Breakdown
Kristen presented her soaps as affordable, high-quality options for individuals with sensitive skin.
Here are some of the key details:
- Production cost per bar: $2.38
- Retail price per bar: $11
- Price for a box of four bars: $40
The price point seemed well-positioned for the target market, providing a good margin while remaining accessible to a broad range of customers. The Sharks were impressed by both the quality and the pricing structure.
Sharks’ Offers & Reactions On Shark Tank Gently Soap Pitch
As Kristen passed around samples of her soaps for the Sharks to try, they were immediately impressed by the fragrances. Candace Nelson, the founder of Sprinkles Cupcakes and a guest Shark, was particularly enthusiastic about the product.
The scents and plant-based ingredients made an immediate impression, and the Sharks were intrigued by Kristen’s passion and the potential of Gently Soap.
However, as the pitch progressed, the Sharks began to voice their concerns and offers.
Lori Greiner was initially very interested in the product, stating that she loved the idea and the quality of the soaps. However, she admitted that she was already working on a competing product in the same space. As a result, she chose to bow out of the deal.
Mark Cuban also expressed interest but ultimately decided to pass on the opportunity, stating that he couldn’t personally relate to the product due to not having sensitive skin. Thus, he dropped out.
Daymond John, like Mark, said that he couldn’t connect with the product due to his own fortunate experience of having healthy skin. He, too, dropped out, leaving Kristen with only two remaining Sharks.
Kevin O’Leary’s Offer For Gently Soap Shark Tank Pitch
Kevin O’Leary, known for his straightforward and sometimes tough negotiating style, saw potential in Kristen’s product, though he wasn’t quite as enthusiastic as Candace.
Still, Kevin made an offer:
- $75,000 for 10% equity in Gently Soap
- $1 royalty for each bar sold
- Once Kevin made back his $500,000 investment, the royalty would drop to $0.20 per bar in perpetuity.
While this offer provided the financial backing Kristen needed, Kevin’s royalty structure and equity demands were not without their challenges. Kristen was interested, but she knew she had to evaluate other options before making her decision.
Candace Nelson’s Offer For Gently Soap Shark Tank Pitch
Then came Candace Nelson, the guest Shark and the founder of Sprinkles Cupcakes. Candace saw immense potential in Kristen’s product and was willing to offer:
- $75,000 for 30% equity
- No royalty
- Additionally, Candace offered to connect Kristen with a big partner in the beauty market, Thirteen Lune, which could potentially open up even greater opportunities for Gently Soap in the beauty and skincare space.
Gently Soap Shark Tank Deal
Kristen was clearly interested in Candace’s offer, but the 30% equity stake was quite a high price to pay. She wanted to negotiate a lower equity percentage.
The first counteroffer came from Kristen: she proposed $75,000 for 15% equity. However, Candace stuck to her guns and refused to budge.
Kristen made another attempt, offering $75,000 for 20% equity, but Candace was firm in her stance.
Undeterred, Kristen made a final offer of $75,000 for 25% equity, which Candace finally accepted, signaling the successful conclusion of the negotiation.
With the final offer from Candace Nelson, Kristen walked away from the Shark Tank set with a deal that could help elevate her business to new heights.
Not only did Candace secure a 25% equity stake in Gently Soap, but she also promised to connect Kristen with key partners in the beauty industry, providing a significant avenue for growth.
This partnership was a perfect match, combining Kristen’s passion for creating gentle, plant-based skincare products with Candace’s expertise and connections in the beauty space.
With strong repeat customer loyalty, impressive sales growth, and Candace’s support, Kristen’s future in the skincare industry looks promising.
Keep reading our Gently Soap update to find out what happens to the company following the Shark Tank show!
Gently Soap Shark Tank Update: What Happened After the Show?
So, what happened to Gently Soap after Shark Tank?
As for the latest Gently Soap Shark Tank Update: The exposure from the show provided a tremendous boost for Kristen and her business. Since appearing on the show, Gently Soap has experienced a notable increase in both sales and brand awareness.
- Sales Boost: Kristen’s appearance on Shark Tank led to a significant surge in orders. With Candace’s support and the added visibility from the show, Gently Soap reached a broader audience, allowing Kristen to grow her business even further.
- Partnerships and Distribution: One of the major outcomes of the deal with Candace Nelson was the introduction of Gently Soap to a new distribution channel. As promised, Kristen’s products are now available through Thirteen Lune, an online marketplace that connects beauty brands with diverse, underserved markets. Kristen’s soaps are also featured on BLK + GRN, another prominent platform for natural and sustainable beauty products.
- Media Exposure: Kristen has been featured in Eco Parent Magazine, expanding her reach to an audience that values natural, eco-friendly products. Her appearance in the magazine, along with the Shark Tank exposure, has played a key role in raising the profile of Gently Soap.
Additionally, Gently Soap continues to be sold on its own website, where customers can choose from a variety of soap scents. There are four different scents available, and customers can buy them individually or as part of a bundle.
Gently Soap Net Worth
During Kristen Dunning’s pitch on Shark Tank, her company, Gently Soap, was valued at approximately $300,000. This valuation was based on her initial offer, where she sought $75,000 for 25% equity.
At the time of filming, the business had achieved year-to-date sales of $113,000, with $66,000 in sales from the previous year and a profit of $38,000. The company also boasted a high 78% repeat customer rate, reflecting strong brand loyalty.
Following her deal with Candace Nelson for $75,000 at 25% equity, Gently Soap likely gained increased exposure, stronger connections in the beauty industry, and potential scalability through partnerships like Thirteen Lune.
Factoring in the impressive sales growth and loyal customer base, the current net worth of the company could have risen significantly, potentially surpassing $500,000 as sales expand via platforms like Amazon and new distribution channels.
This upward trajectory reflects the growing demand for sensitive-skin-friendly products in the market.
Did Gently Soap Get A Deal On Shark Tank?
Yes, Gently Soap secured a deal on Shark Tank!
Kristen Dunning, the founder, impressed the Sharks with her plant-based soap designed for sensitive skin. After pitching her innovative product, Kristen received two offers:
- One from Kevin O’Leary, who proposed $75,000 for 10% equity with a royalty of $1 per bar until he recouped $500,000 (dropping to $0.20 per bar afterward).
- Another from Candace Nelson, who offered $75,000 for 30% equity with no royalty.
Kristen engaged in a determined negotiation with Candace, countering multiple times to reduce the equity stake. After presenting revised offers of 15% and 20% equity, Kristen finally secured a deal at 25% equity for $75,000.
Candace’s experience in the beauty industry and her connections, including a partnership opportunity with Thirteen Lune, made her the ideal partner to help grow Gently Soap’s market presence.
Gently Soap Shark Tank Deal Video
Now, let’s watch a video on Gently Soap Shark Tank Deal:
Gently Soap Reviews
Gently Soap has garnered widespread praise for its innovative approach to skincare, particularly for individuals with sensitive skin.
Customers appreciate the use of plant-based ingredients that provide a gentle cleansing experience without the irritation commonly caused by essential oils or synthetic fragrances.
Many users highlight the soothing aromas and nourishing qualities of the soaps, making them ideal for daily use. The high repeat customer rate of 78% speaks volumes about the satisfaction and trust the brand has built among its users.
In addition to customer feedback, Gently Soap has received positive attention from industry platforms like Eco Parent Magazine, further boosting its credibility.
Reviewers often commend Kristen Dunning’s thoughtful design and dedication to addressing a real problem faced by those with eczema and other skin sensitivities.
With availability on platforms like Thirteen Lune and BLK + GRN, alongside its official website, the brand’s consistent quality and purpose-driven mission continue to resonate with a growing audience.
Where To Buy Gently Soap?
Gently Soap is widely accessible through various platforms, making it convenient for customers to purchase. You can buy their range of gentle, plant-based soaps directly from the official Gently Soap website, which offers individual bars or bundled packs.
The website provides detailed product descriptions, allowing customers to choose from their four soothing scents tailored for sensitive skin.
In addition to their website, Gently Soap is available through online vendors like Thirteen Lune and BLK + GRN, platforms known for promoting inclusive and eco-conscious brands.
For those who prefer mainstream shopping options, Gently Soap has also launched on Amazon, offering easy access and swift delivery. These multiple channels ensure that customers can find Gently Soap wherever it’s most convenient for them.
Is Gently Soap Still In Business?
Yes, Gently Soap is still in business and continues to thrive in the sensitive skincare market.
Following its appearance on Shark Tank, the brand received a significant boost in visibility and credibility, which likely translated to increased sales.
Kristen Dunning’s partnership with guest shark Candace Nelson opened doors to new opportunities, including collaborations with major beauty platforms like Thirteen Lune and BLK + GRN.
The company’s products are also available through its official website and online retailers, ensuring customers can easily access the plant-based, gentle soaps.
Kristen’s commitment to creating safe, natural products for sensitive skin has resonated with her target audience. The business’s success is bolstered by the high repeat customer rate of 78% and its expansion into e-commerce platforms like Amazon, reflecting steady growth.
Gently Soap’s continuous presence in the market underscores its viability and the demand for skin-friendly, eco-conscious products.
Gently Soap Challenges and Future Goals
One of the primary challenges faced by Gently Soap is navigating the highly competitive beauty and skincare market, which is saturated with both established brands and emerging natural product lines.
Kristen Dunning’s mission to create plant-based soaps without essential oils or synthetic fragrances appeals to a niche audience but requires continued education and marketing to stand out.
Additionally, scaling production while maintaining quality standards may present operational hurdles as demand increases, especially with partnerships like Thirteen Lune and sales on Amazon.
Looking ahead, Gently Soap aims to strengthen its market position by expanding its product line and increasing availability through more retail and online partnerships.
Kristen also envisions furthering her brand’s mission of inclusivity and sustainability, tapping into the growing market of sensitive-skin solutions.
With a loyal customer base and strategic industry connections, Gently Soap is poised to leverage its Shark Tank exposure to achieve long-term growth and solidify its place in the skincare industry.
Gently Soap Today: What’s Next For Gently Soap?
Gently Soap has come a long way since its humble beginnings, and with the backing of Candace Nelson, the future looks bright. Kristen is now in a position to expand her brand further, reaching a wider audience and developing new products.
The natural skincare market, especially for sensitive skin, is growing rapidly, and Kristen’s unique approach positions Gently Soap as a strong contender in this space.
Looking ahead, we expect Gently Soap to continue its expansion both in terms of distribution and product offerings.
With the support of Candace Nelson and the momentum from Shark Tank, Gently Soap has the potential to become a go-to brand for those in search of effective, plant-based skincare solutions.
FAQs On Gently Soap Shark Tank Update Today
Who Is The Owner Of Gently Soap?
The owner of Gently Soap is Kristen Dunning, a recent MBA graduate and entrepreneur. Kristen founded the company to create plant-based soaps specifically designed for sensitive skin, inspired by her own lifelong battle with eczema.
She combines her expertise in horticulture with her passion for skincare to craft gentle, natural products.
Did Gentle Soap Get A Deal On Shark Tank?
Yes, Gently Soap secured a deal on Shark Tank. Kristen Dunning accepted an offer from guest shark Candace Nelson for $75,000 in exchange for 25% equity. Candace also promised to connect Kristen with key beauty industry players, such as Thirteen Lune, to help scale the business.
Is Gently Soap Successful?
Yes, Gently Soap is successful, as evidenced by its growing sales, high repeat customer rate (78%), and its deal with Candace Nelson on Shark Tank.
The brand has gained significant exposure and expanded distribution through partnerships like Thirteen Lune and Amazon, indicating strong potential for future growth in the sensitive skincare market.
Is Gentle Soap Still In Business?
Yes, Gently Soap is still in business. Following its Shark Tank appearance, the brand continues to sell its plant-based soaps through its website and online retailers like Thirteen Lune and BLK + GRN.
The business has gained increased visibility and remains focused on catering to individuals with sensitive skin.
What Happened To Gently Soap After Shark Tank?
After appearing on Shark Tank, Gently Soap received a boost in visibility and secured a deal with Candace Nelson for $75,000 for 25% equity.
Since the show, the brand has expanded its presence, with its products now available on platforms like Amazon, and partnerships with companies like Thirteen Lune.
The business continues to grow, benefiting from loyal customers and increased exposure.
Conclusion: Gently Soap After Shark Tank
According to the latest Gently Soap Shark Tank Update: Kristen Dunning’s journey with Gently Soap is a testament to the power of passion and persistence.
From her personal battle with eczema to her determination to create a natural, soothing soap, Kristen has carved out a space for Gently Soap in a competitive market.
Thanks to her appearance on Shark Tank and the deal with Candace Nelson, Gently Soap has seen a major increase in sales and brand visibility, and the future looks even brighter.
For those looking for a skincare solution that’s gentle on sensitive skin, Gently Soap offers a promising option that’s both effective and environmentally friendly.
Stay tuned for more on Gently Soap updates as Kristen Dunning’s business continues to grow.
If you haven’t already, check out Gently Soap’s website and try the soothing, plant-based bars that are making waves in the skincare world!
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