What are the cosmetic tube‘s materials?

We will choose different materials for cosmetic tubes according to the characteristics of cosmetics. The cosmetic tube‘s materials are mainly the following:

PCR plastic tubes

Material matters

  • Aluminum : Excellent barrier protection against air, light, and moisture, making it ideal for sensitive formulations and high-end products. Aluminum is also highly recyclable, contributing to a positive brand image for environmentally conscious brands. However, it is generally more expensive than plastic and can dent easily.
  • Plastic (PE, PP, PCR): Most popular choice – versatile, cost-effective, and comes in various shapes, sizes, and finishes. Offers durability, flexibility, and good moisture and chemical resistance. Available in recycled versions (PCR) to address sustainability concerns. However, plastics may not provide as strong a barrier as other materials, potentially impacting shelf life for sensitive formulas.
  • Laminated (ABL, PBL): Combines layers of plastic and aluminum or high-barrier plastic (like EVOH) to offer enhanced barrier properties and a smooth, attractive finish. Offers a balance between barrier protection and visual appeal, often used for premium cosmetics. However, recycling can be more complex due to the mixed materials.
  • Paper: A newer, more sustainable option, particularly appealing to eco-conscious brands. Paper is lightweight, renewable (when sourced from certified forests), and can be recycled or composted (depending on coatings). However, paper itself is not moisture-resistant, often requiring internal liners for liquid products. 

If you need to know more details about cosmetic tube’s materials.You can contact us ,we ，Jiangsu Xinfly Packaging Co.,Ltd, are a professional factory producing cosmetic tubes with more than 20 years of production experience.

Cosmetic Tube Materials – Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about PE, PP, aluminum, laminated (ABL/PBL), and eco options like bio-PE and PCR, plus recyclability and cost factors.

1) What are the main materials used for cosmetic tubes?
Common choices include polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), aluminum, laminated composites (ABL/PBL), and eco options like sugarcane-based bio-PE and PCR plastics.
2) What is PE and why is it widely used?
PE is flexible, lightweight, cost-effective and compatible with many skincare formulas, making it a go-to for cosmetic tubes.
3) Why might a brand choose aluminum tubes?
Aluminum offers excellent light/oxygen/moisture barrier, ideal for sensitive or premium formulations.
4) What are laminated tubes (ABL / PBL)?
Multilayer constructions (e.g., PE/EVOH/Al/PE or all-plastic high-barrier PBL) that improve barrier vs single-layer plastics.
5) What eco-friendly materials are available?
Sugarcane-derived bio-PE, PCR (post-consumer recycled) plastics, and mono-material PE designs to enhance recyclability.
6) How does material choice affect recyclability?
Mono-material PE tubes are generally more recyclable than complex laminates; acceptance depends on local facilities.
7) How does formula compatibility influence material selection?
Actives/solvents may require barrier (COEX/ABL/PBL). Aluminum can react with strong acids; verify compatibility tests.
8) Can I use paper/kraft tubes instead of plastic?
Paper exteriors usually need an internal polymer lining for function; true paper-only tubes are rare.
9) Does material impact cost and design flexibility?
Yes. Single-layer PE is cost-effective; laminates, aluminum and bio/PCR options may increase cost and affect printability/tooling.
10) What trends are emerging in tube materials?
Rising use of recycled content, bio-based feedstocks, mono-material recyclability, and transparency on sourcing/lifecycle.
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Jeff Shao
Jeff – Founder & Managing Director of Xinfly Packaging

Jeff Shao is a forward-thinking entrepreneur and packaging innovator with over 20 years of experience in the cosmetic and personal-care packaging industry. As the Founder and Managing Director of Xinfly Packaging, he has transformed the company from a traditional plastic tube manufacturer into a global provider of custom, eco-friendly, and premium cosmetic tube solutions.

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