Why Laminated Tubes Are the Preferred Choice for Cosmetics

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laminated tube
laminated tube

Laminated tubes give strong protection and last a long time. They also make your cosmetic products look nice and shiny. Picking the right packaging helps your brand get noticed. It also keeps your product safe. People often look at the packaging before buying something. They want packaging that is easy to carry and use. They also want it to give clear information. The cosmetics market is growing fast, so these things are important. Brands like Xinfly Packaging offer good solutions for these needs. This helps you earn trust from your customers.

Predicted to develop steadily, the global packaging tubes market is expected to reach USD 6.64 billion by 2034, from an anticipated USD 4.74 billion in 2024. This indicates that throughout the projected period of 2024 to 2034, the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) will be 3.4%. With an anticipated 2.5% annual growth rate in 2024(Data source: Yahoo Finance

Key Takeaways

  • Laminated tubes provide strong protection for cosmetics, maintaining product integrity and visual appeal.
  • They feature a multi-layer structure that blocks moisture, light, and air, keeping products fresh.
  • Customization options abound, allowing brands to choose colors, shapes, and printing techniques to match their identity.
  • Laminated tubes are eco-friendly, using recyclable materials and reducing waste through efficient production.
  • Their lightweight design also lowers shipping costs and enhances consumer convenience.

Laminated Tubes Overview

What Are Laminated Tubes

Laminated tubes are used a lot for cosmetic packaging. Many products use them because they keep things safe and look nice. These tubes have many layers that protect your cosmetics from air, water, and light. The layers work together to make a strong shield.

Multi-Layer Structure

Think of laminated tubes as having layers stacked on top of each other. Each layer does something important. Some layers stop air and water from getting in. Other layers help the tube keep its shape and look shiny. All these layers help your product stay fresh and last longer.

Materials Used

Many materials are used to make the layers in laminated tubes. The table below shows some common types and what is inside them:

Type of LaminateDescriptionKey Materials Used
Plastic Barrier Laminate (PBL)Made of plastics, includes PE layers with an EVOH barrier.PE, EVOH
Aluminium Barrier Laminate (ABL)PE layers with an aluminium barrier, good for strong protection.PE, Aluminium
Egnite™High-gloss laminate, protects and looks shiny.EVOH, MPET
Customer-specific materialsCustom effects, like metallic or holographic looks.Various barrier and web thicknesses
Post Consumer RecyclingUses recycled plastic for eco-friendly packaging.Recycled plastic, PE
TitaniumNew plastic with less thickness, saves material.HDPE, PE

You often see aluminum barrier laminates in fancy cosmetics. They protect well and look shiny. Plastic barrier laminates are bendy and cost less. They are good for most cosmetic products.

Manufacturing Process

You might wonder how these tubes are made. There are a few steps to make strong and nice-looking packaging:

  1. Extrusion: Small plastic pieces get heated and shaped into tubes.
  2. Cooling: The tubes cool off in water so they keep their shape.
  3. Decoration: Designs and labels are printed on the tubes.
  4. Filling: The tubes are filled with cosmetic products in a clean place.
  5. Sealing: The ends are closed up, and codes are stamped on for tracking.

These steps help make tubes that look good and keep your products safe.

Applications in Cosmetics

You see laminated tubes in lots of cosmetic products. Makeup, skin care, and hair care brands use these tubes because they are easy to use and look fancy. More brands are picking plastic laminated tubes because they are light and keep products clean. Good printing on these tubes helps your brand get noticed in stores. You also see these tubes in other industries, but cosmetics use them the most because people want packaging that is safe and stylish.

Key Benefits of Laminated Tubes

Superior Barrier Protection

Moisture, Light, and Air Resistance

You want your cosmetics to stay fresh and safe. Plastic laminated tubes help with this. They have a special barrier layer inside. This layer blocks out water, light, and air. It keeps your product from spoiling or losing quality.

The barrier layer uses EVOH and aluminum foil. These materials are very hard for things to pass through. Almost nothing can get inside the tube. The many layers in these tubes protect better than simple plastic tubes.

Protection TypeEffectiveness Rate
Moisture Barrier98% reduction in water vapor transmission
Oxygen Barrier99.9% reduction in oxygen penetration
UV Protection100% UV light blocking

You can see how well these tubes protect in the chart below:

Bar chart comparing moisture, oxygen, and UV protection effectiveness of laminated tubes

The barrier layer keeps out almost all water, air, and sunlight. This means your creams and gels last longer and work better.

Product Integrity

You want your cosmetics to work every time you use them. The barrier in laminate tubes keeps your products pure and strong. These tubes stop air and germs from getting inside. Your creams and gels stay just like when you filled the tube.

Many companies pick aluminum barrier laminate tubes for extra protection. These tubes are used in healthcare and beauty. They keep products clean and safe. The strong barrier helps meet strict quality rules. You can trust your product will stay good until the end.

Packaging TypeBarrier PropertiesIdeal Use CasesCost Effectiveness
Aluminum Barrier Laminate (ABL)Excellent protection against moisture, oxygen, and lightPharmaceuticals, sensitive food itemsHigher cost, justified for high-value products
Plastic Barrier Laminate (PBL)Good protection, flexibleGeneral use, cost-sensitive productsMore cost-effective than ABL, but less effective barrier properties

You get the best results when you pick the right barrier for your product.

Product Safety

Tamper-Evident Features

You want your customers to feel safe with your cosmetics. Laminated tubes often have tamper-evident features. These show if someone opened or changed the product before you buy it.

FeatureDescription
Child-Resistant Cap (CRC)Push and turn closure that meets safety guidelines for children.
Tamper-Evident Shrink BandPrinted bands that must be broken to open the tube.
Closed OrificeSpecial closures that prevent tampering.
Peel SealFoil or non-aluminum seal that shows if the tube has been opened.
Lip Balm with Tamper Ring CapCaps with a ring that breaks when you twist it off, showing if the product was opened.

These features help keep your customers safe and build trust in your brand.

Hygiene Assurance

You need to keep your products clean and free from germs. The barrier in laminated tubes gives airtight protection. Nothing from outside can get in and spoil your product.

Evidence TypeDescription
Maximum HygieneAluminum and laminate tubes follow the highest hygiene standards to prevent contamination.
Airtight ProtectionThese tubes provide fully airtight seals to protect your products from outside influences.

Plastic laminated tubes help your creams and lotions stay clean and safe for your customers.

Visual Appeal

Printing and Finishes

You want your packaging to look great and stand out. Laminated tubes give you many choices for printing and finishes. The barrier layer helps colors and designs look bright and sharp.

You can pick matt or gloss lamination. Matt lamination gives a soft look. Gloss lamination makes colors shiny and bright. You can also add foil stamping for a metallic look or spot UV to highlight parts of your design.

Some popular finishing options are:

  • Surface lamination
  • Foil stamping
  • Spot UV
  • Embossing
  • Debossing

These choices help your packaging match your brand and attract customers.

Shelf Impact

You want your product to catch the eye on the shelf. Laminated tubes have high-gloss finishes and bright graphics. The barrier layer keeps the tube looking new and stops the print from fading.

FeatureLaminated TubesExtruded Tubes
Barrier PropertiesSuperior protection against environmental factorsLower barrier protection
Aesthetic AppealHigh-gloss finishes and vibrant graphicsPractical but less visually appealing
Print QualityExcellent print qualityAdequate print quality
Consumer AttractionStands out on retail shelvesLess attention-grabbing

You get packaging that protects your product and helps it stand out and sell better.

Consumer Convenience

Lightweight and Portable

You want packaging that is easy to carry. Laminated tubes help with this. They are light and fit in your bag or pocket. You do not feel heavy when you bring them. Many people like plastic laminated tubes for this reason. You can use them at home, school, or while traveling.

  • Laminated tubes are light and simple to hold.
  • You can put them in small places, like purses or backpacks.
  • Their small size is great for travel or busy days.
  • People like how easy it is to take their favorite products anywhere.

More people want packaging that is simple to carry. The need for portable packaging keeps growing. You want products that match your life, and these tubes do that.

Easy Dispensing

You want to use all of your product. Plastic laminated tubes make this easy. You can squeeze out just what you need. This helps you not waste anything. These tubes work well for lotions, creams, gels, and ointments. You get easy use every time.

  • The soft sides let you squeeze out the right amount.
  • Flip-top caps and other closures make it even easier.
  • You can open and close the tube with one hand.
  • The flexible tube lets you get all the product out, so nothing is left.

Laminate tubes are easier to use than metal tubes. You do not have to fight with hard packaging. You get a smooth and easy time each use.

Sustainability

Recyclable Materials

You care about helping the earth. Many laminated tubes use materials you can recycle. Some tubes use only one kind of plastic, like polypropylene. This makes recycling simple. You help cut down on waste when you pick recyclable packaging.

FeatureDescription
MaterialMade of a single material: PolyPropylene (PP)
Recyclability98% recyclability score, suitable for recycling in the PP stream
Environmental ImpactAluminium-free, reducing multi-material waste
DesignHigh barrier and chemical resistance, allowing for thinner laminate walls
CertificationHTP_CYCLOS certification proving its recyclability
ApplicationDesigned for personal care products, enhancing sustainability in cosmetics

You can feel proud using products that help the planet.

Reduced Waste

You want products that do not make lots of trash. Laminated tubes help with this too. Their strong barrier lets them use thinner walls. This saves plastic. The design also lets you squeeze out almost everything, so less is wasted.

  • Thinner walls use less plastic.
  • You throw away less packaging after you finish.
  • The tubes keep your products fresh, so you do not toss out spoiled items.

You help the earth when you choose these tubes.

Cost-Effectiveness

Efficient Production

You want packaging that does not cost a lot. Plastic laminated tubes are made in smart ways. Factories can make many tubes fast. This keeps prices low for brands and for you.

  • The process uses less energy.
  • Fast machines make lots of tubes quickly.
  • Less waste during making means lower costs.

You get good packaging without paying more.

Lower Shipping Costs

You also want products that are cheap to ship. Laminated tubes weigh less than metal or glass. This means companies can send more at once. Lower weight means shipping costs less.

  • Light tubes lower shipping fees.
  • Small size lets brands pack more tubes in each box.
  • You get lower prices and help the earth too.

You get products that are easy to buy and arrive fast.

Plastic Laminated Tubes vs. Other Tube Types

Plastic Laminated Tubes vs. Aluminum Tubes

Plastic laminated tubes and aluminum barrier laminate tubes are used for cosmetics. Both types protect your products, but they do it in different ways. Aluminum barrier laminate tubes give the strongest protection. They block moisture, oxygen, light, and UV rays. This keeps creams and lotions fresh for a long time. Aluminum barrier laminate tubes keep sensitive ingredients safe from the environment.

Plastic tubes do not block moisture and air as well. If you use plastic tubes, your product may not last as long. You want packaging that keeps your cosmetics working well. Aluminum barrier laminate tubes help with that.

Tube TypeBarrier ProtectionBest Use CasesShelf Life Impact
Aluminum Barrier LaminateExcellentSensitive cosmeticsLong-lasting
Plastic Laminated TubesGoodEveryday cosmeticsGood
Standard Plastic TubesFairNon-sensitive productsShorter

Tip: Pick aluminum barrier laminate tubes for products that need extra protection from light and air.

Laminate Tubes vs. Plastic Tubes

You want packaging that lasts and keeps your products safe. Laminate tubes have many layers, like plastic and sometimes aluminum. These layers make a strong barrier. They stop light, oxygen, and moisture from getting inside. Your cosmetics stay fresh and work well.

Plastic tubes have only one layer. They can break or wear out faster. Your product may not last as long in a plastic tube. Laminate tubes resist damage and keep creams and gels safe. You get better protection and longer shelf life.

  • Laminate tubes stay strong even after squeezing many times.
  • You do not need to worry about leaks or cracks.
  • Your product stays clean and protected.

Laminate Tubes vs. Metal Tubes

You might wonder how laminate tubes compare to metal tubes. Laminate tubes give excellent barrier properties. They block moisture, light, and air. This keeps skincare products fresh and working well. You want your creams and lotions to work every time.

Plastic laminated tubes also stop germs from getting inside. You get packaging that keeps your product safe and clean. Metal tubes protect well, but they can be harder to squeeze and use. Laminate tubes feel softer and easier to hold. You get strong protection and easy use.

Note: Laminate tubes help keep your cosmetics fresh and easy to use. Metal tubes may feel stiff and less comfortable.

Why Laminated Tubes Excel

You want your cosmetics to stay fresh and safe. Laminated tubes help with this. They also make products look nice. Many brands pick laminated tubes for these reasons.

Laminated tubes have many good features:

  • They last a long time and do not break. You can squeeze them often, and they keep their shape.
  • The layers inside block air, water, and light. This keeps creams and lotions from going bad.
  • The tube keeps out germs and dirt. Your product stays safe every time.

Plastic barrier laminate tubes give you more choices. These tubes use special materials to protect your product. You can print bright designs on them. You can pick a shiny or soft finish. The tube looks good and stands out in stores.

Here is a quick look at why laminated tubes work well for cosmetics:

FeatureLaminated TubesOther Tube Types
DurabilityHighMedium to Low
Barrier ProtectionExcellentFair to Good
Product IntegrityMaintainedSometimes Compromised
Design FlexibilityWide RangeLimited
Consumer ExperienceEasy and CleanSometimes Difficult

Plastic barrier laminate tubes help the environment too. Many tubes use materials you can recycle. You help reduce waste when you pick these tubes.

If you want packaging that protects and looks good, pick laminate tubes. They are easy for customers to use. Laminated tubes give you safety, style, and convenience for cosmetics.

Customization and Branding

Customization and Branding
Image Source: pexels

Design Flexibility

Laminated tubes let you make your products look special. You can pick many colors, shapes, and finishes. This helps your packaging match your brand’s style. You can use different looks to make your product unique.

Color and Shape Options

You can choose colors that fit your brand. Some brands use bright colors to get attention. Others pick soft colors for a calm look. You can also pick the shape and size of your tube. Some tubes are tall and thin. Others are short and wide. This lets you design packaging that fits your product and your customers.

When you change your packaging, people notice your product more.

Printing Techniques

Printing on laminated tubes uses new methods. These let you add cool designs, big logos, and colorful pictures. The right printing makes your packaging look fancy and nice.

Printing MethodAdvantagesApplications in Cosmetics
Offset PrintingMakes clear designs and smooth tubesGood for lots of tubes and hard designs
Flexographic PrintingFast and works for many designsGreat for big orders and many styles
Screen PrintingBright colors and strong printsGood for bold logos and raised prints
Heat Transfer PrintingMakes detailed pictures and perfect linesGood for full-color images and shading
Digital PrintingEasy to change and good for small ordersGreat for special runs and testing ideas

Good printing makes your brand look better. Special finishes, like shiny or bumpy surfaces, make your product feel fancy. Custom prints help people remember your brand. Bright pictures help your product get noticed.

Branding Impact

Using laminated tubes helps your brand look better. People think nice packaging means better products. If your tube looks and feels good, people may trust your product more. You can use special designs to show what your brand stands for.

  • Nice packaging makes your product look fancy and strong.
  • Eco-friendly choices help you meet rules and customer needs.
  • Smart features, like QR codes, give more info and build trust.

Custom tubes help you keep up with trends and stay strong in the market.

Xinfly Packaging Cosmetic Tubes

Xinfly Packaging makes tubes that help your brand look great. You can get special features and order what you need. Xinfly’s 5-layer laminate with EVOH and foil keeps air out. This protects things like serums and makes them last longer. The tubes are shiny and feel smooth.

If you want to launch a new product fast, Xinfly can help. You do not have to order a lot at once. This is good for trying new ideas or starting a new brand. Many brands trust Xinfly for tubes that look good and work well.

Tip: Pick Xinfly Packaging for tubes that protect your product, look nice, and let you order the amount you need.

User Preferences

You want packaging that matches your life and what you care about. Many people pick laminated tubes for personal care because they have important features. The table below shows what different shoppers want in cosmetic packaging:

Consumer TypePreference Factors
Eco-conscious ConsumersFavor recyclable and biodegradable options
Convenience-oriented ConsumersAppreciate user-friendly features
Luxury-oriented ConsumersDrawn to innovative and visually appealing packaging

Eco-conscious shoppers want packaging that is good for the earth. People who like convenience want tubes that are simple to use and easy to carry. If you like fancy things, you may want packaging that looks cool and feels special. Laminated tubes fit all these needs, so they are a popular pick for personal care.

You notice new trends changing how brands make cosmetic packaging. Companies now use more earth-friendly materials and smart packaging ideas. Many brands use recycled plastics or materials that break down fast. This helps the planet and follows strict rules from global groups.

Rules from groups like the ECHA and EPA make brands use safer packaging. You also see more smart features, like QR codes or NFC chips, on tubes. These let you scan the package to get more info or check if it is real. Brands use these tools to give you a better experience and more facts.

Brand Feedback

Cosmetic brands say good things about laminated tubes. You get these benefits as a customer:

  • Brands follow FDA rules, so you get safe and legal products.
  • Companies work with packaging suppliers to make custom designs for personal care.
  • Fast production lets brands bring out new items quickly.
  • Lower shipping costs and good delivery mean you get products on time.

Tip: When you pick products in laminated tubes, you help brands that care about safety, quality, and new ideas.

Sustainability & Future Outlook

Eco-Friendly Laminated Tubes

More brands now pick eco-friendly laminated tubes for cosmetics. These tubes help the earth and work well for you. Many companies use PCR tubes. PCR means post-consumer recycled. These tubes use plastic that people already used and recycled. This helps cut down on new plastic and lowers pollution. Some PCR tubes have up to 50% recycled plastic.

Some tubes are made from sugarcane-based polyethylene. Sugarcane grows again and again, so it is renewable. Using sugarcane instead of oil-based plastic is better for nature. Mono-material tubes are another smart choice. These tubes use just one kind of plastic, so recycling is easier. Some brands use aluminum in their tubes. Aluminum can be recycled over and over. People who care about the earth like aluminum tubes.

Here is a table with some top eco-friendly ideas:

Innovation TypeDescription
PCR TubesMade from recycled plastics, so less new plastic is needed. Has 30%-50% recycled content.
Sugarcane-derived PolyethyleneUses sugarcane instead of oil, which is better for the planet.
Mono-material TubesMade from one type of plastic, so recycling is simple.
Aluminum TubesCan be recycled many times and is liked by eco-friendly brands.

When you pick these new tube options, you help the earth and make your skin care packaging greener.

Regulations

You should know about the rules for cosmetic packaging. Many countries now want brands to use safer and greener materials. These rules make companies use recyclable or recycled plastics. Some places do not allow certain plastics or limit new plastic use. There are also rules about labels. Brands must show if their tubes can be recycled or are made from recycled stuff.

These rules help keep you and the planet safe. They make sure packaging is safe and easy to recycle. Brands that follow the rules earn trust from you and other shoppers.

Note: Always look for recycling symbols or eco-labels on your cosmetic tubes. These signs mean the brand cares about the earth.

Cosmetic packaging will keep changing soon. Brands want to find better ways to help the planet. You will see more tubes made from recycled or plant-based materials. Smart packaging will become more common. Some tubes may have QR codes that give you more facts or recycling tips.

Many companies want to make tubes that work for you and the planet. You will see lighter tubes that use less plastic but still protect your products. More brands will use clear labels to show their packaging is good for the earth.

  • More recycled and plant-based materials
  • Smart packaging with digital features
  • Lighter tubes for less waste
  • Clear eco-labels for easy recycling

You help shape the future when you pick eco-friendly tubes. Your choices make the world better for everyone.

You want your cosmetics to be safe and look nice. Laminated tubes help with this in many ways. They keep your creams and lotions fresh for a long time. These tubes have strong layers that block air and water. They also make your products look bright and cool. Many brands use laminated tubes to help their products stand out. These tubes are also better for the earth.

Tip: Pick Xinfly Packaging’s cosmetic tubes if you want packaging that keeps your product safe and helps your brand look good.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why laminated tubes (ABL/PBL/High-Gloss) excel for cosmetics—barrier, printing, feel, sustainability, MOQ & lead time.

Q1What is a laminated tube and why do cosmetics prefer it?
Laminated tubes (ABL with an aluminum layer, or PBL all-plastic) combine multiple layers to deliver strong barrier, a premium look/feel, and excellent print quality—ideal for creams, sunscreens, and active formulas.
Q2ABL vs. PBL—what’s the difference?
ABL includes a thin aluminum layer for top-tier oxygen/light barrier; great for sensitive actives. PBL is aluminum-free all-plastic with good barrier and easier recyclability in PE streams when mono-material.
Q3How does barrier performance compare with PE/COEX?
Laminates typically achieve higher OTR/ WVTR resistance than standard mono-PE. COEX with EVOH is strong; ABL often surpasses it for UV/oxygen, extending shelf life of SPF/Vit-C/retinol formulas.
Q4Do laminated tubes feel more premium?
Yes. High-gloss or soft-touch films, crisp shoulder/edge definition, and anti-scuff coatings create a rigid, upscale hand-feel favored by skincare and makeup brands.
Q5What decoration options are available?
Offset for photo-grade art, silk screen for opaque hits, hot-stamping, cold foil, spot-UV, and registered matte/gloss. Edge-to-edge high DPI on laminate films is a key advantage.
Q6Are laminated tubes recyclable or sustainable?
PBL mono-PE structures are compatible with PE recycling streams (where available). We also offer PCR content and bio-based caps. For ABL, use clear on-pack guidance and minimize metalized areas.
Q7What closures/applicators work with laminates?
Flip-top, stand caps, screw caps, airless pumps, long nozzles, metal/ceramic eye tips, and silicone applicators—all fully compatible with ABL/PBL bodies.
Q8What about MOQ, sampling, and lead time?
Typical MOQ: 5,000–10,000 pcs per design. Samples in 7–10 days; mass production in 25–30 days after approval (finish/closure dependent).
Q9When should I choose ABL vs. PBL?
Choose ABL for highly oxidative/light-sensitive formulas (SPF, actives). Choose PBL for recyclability and mono-material claims with solid barrier for daily skincare.

Ready to customize your packaging? Contact our team for detailed pricing, MOQ flexibility, and fast production samples.

Request Quote Ask for Sample Xinfly Packaging

Jeff – Founder & Managing Director of Xinfly Packaging
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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