What are plastic round cosmetic tubes and how are they used in beauty products

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What are plastic round cosmetic tubes and how are they used in beauty products
What are plastic round cosmetic tubes and how are they used in beauty products

A plastic round cosmetic tube is easy to use and store. You can squeeze the tube to get all the cream, lotion, or gel. Many people pick plastic round cosmetic tubes for convenience and strong protection. These tubes have become very popular in recent years. In 2024, they made up 64.5% of the cosmetic packaging market. You see these tubes in many products because they are useful, cheap, and tough. Plastic cosmetic packaging keeps your products clean and safe. Many brands use plastic cosmetic packaging for function and hygiene. Plastic squeeze tubes show how cosmetic tubes work for many beauty needs.

Plastic Round Cosmetic Tube Overview

Plastic Round Cosmetic Tube Overview

Key Features and Benefits

Plastic round cosmetic tubes are used a lot in beauty products. They have many good points that make them popular for packaging. You can get these tubes in many sizes and shapes. Brands like them because they keep products safe and are simple to use.

Here is a table that lists the main features and benefits:

Feature/BenefitDescription
Customization optionsYou can pick mono-layer, double-layer, or multi-layer tubes for your product.
Variety of sizes and diametersTubes come in diameters from 13mm to 60mm, so you get the right size for your cosmetic.
Advanced printing techniquesOffset, silk screen, digital printing, and hot stamping help brands create strong designs.
Diverse closure optionsYou can pick pumps, nozzles, screw caps, or flip tops for easy use and safety.
Focus on sustainabilityMany tubes use eco-friendly materials and practices to support green packaging.
Innovative designsModern looks and user-friendly features make these tubes stand out in cosmetic packaging.

Tip: Pick the tube style and closure that fits your product. This helps keep your cosmetic fresh and easy to use.

Plastic round cosmetic tubes protect your product well. You squeeze out just what you need, so the rest stays clean. This stops waste and keeps your packaging safe and neat.

Comparison with Other Cosmetic Packaging

You may wonder how plastic round cosmetic tubes stack up against other packaging. Many brands pick these tubes because they cost less and last longer. Glass jars and airless pumps have their own good points, but plastic tubes are strong and cheap.

Here is a table that compares packaging types:

Packaging TypeCostDurabilityUser Satisfaction
Plastic TubesLowHighModerate to High
Glass JarsHighLowHigh
Airless PumpsHighModerateHigh
  • Glass jars look fancy and are used for luxury cosmetics. They are heavy and can break, which makes shipping hard.
  • Airless pumps work well and keep products fresh, but they are expensive. Small brands may not use them because of the price.
  • Plastic tubes bend and do not break easily. You can squeeze or drop them without worry. They are cheap, so many brands use them for budget cosmetics.

Plastic round cosmetic tubes give you ease, safety, and good value. You can use them for creams, gels, and lotions. They help you keep your packaging simple and useful.

Materials in Plastic Cosmetic Tubes

Common Plastics Used

Plastic cosmetic tubes are found in many beauty stores. Most tubes use polyethylene (PE) because it is strong and flexible. PE helps products last longer and keeps them safe. Polypropylene (PP) is also used a lot. You might pick PP for tubes that are light and tough. Some brands use PET because it is clear and blocks damage well. Eco-polyethylene and recycled plastics are used more now. These materials help cut down on waste and support green packaging. When you pick a tube, you want it to protect your product and keep it good.

PE, PP, PET Properties

  • PE (Polyethylene): These tubes are strong and do not crack. PE works well for creams and lotions. It keeps your product safe and fresh.
  • PP (Polypropylene): PP tubes are light and tough. They do not break when dropped or squeezed. They are good for travel-size products.
  • PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate): PET tubes are clear and show your product. They block damage and keep your product’s quality.

Note: PE is the top material for cosmetic tubes. It gives you the best mix of strength and quality for most beauty products.

Tube Structures: Mono-Layer to Multi-Layer

You can pick mono-layer or multi-layer tube structures. Mono-layer tubes use one kind of plastic. They work well for simple products. Multi-layer tubes use more than one layer. These layers give better protection and keep your product good.

Here is a table that shows the differences:

Type of TubeAdvantagesDisadvantages
Multi-layerGreat barrier, looks nice, flexible, saves money, eco optionsHard to make, hard to recycle, costs more than plastic tubes
Plastic TubesSaves money, light, easy to use, can recycleNot as strong, can hurt the environment, risk of chemicals

Multi-layer tubes help keep creams and serums fresh longer. They are stronger and protect better. Mono-layer tubes cost less and are easier to recycle. You should pick the tube that fits your product and keeps it safe.

Safety and Compliance

Cosmetic tubes need to follow safety rules. International standards help make sure packaging is safe and good. You must use materials that are not toxic. Tubes should not leak chemicals into your product. You need to avoid heavy metals and bad chemicals.

Here is a table that lists key safety requirements:

RequirementDescription
Material SafetyPackaging must be safe and not toxic for its use.
Compatibility TestingMake sure no chemicals move from packaging to product and the product does not hurt the packaging.
Heavy Metals and ChemicalsMaterials must not have bad things like lead, mercury, cadmium, or phthalates.

You should always check that your tubes meet these rules. This helps keep customers safe and your product good. When you pick materials and tube types, you make sure your packaging is strong and safe.

Uses in Beauty and Personal Care

Uses in Beauty and Personal Care

Plastic cosmetic tubes are important in your daily beauty routine. You see them in many products because they are useful and make things easier. These tubes help keep your products safe, clean, and simple to use. You can find them in skincare, haircare, makeup, and hygiene items. Brands pick plastic squeeze tubes because they protect your products and let you use every bit.

Skincare and Haircare Applications

Creams, Lotions, Gels

People use creams, lotions, and gels every day. Plastic cosmetic tubes make these products easy to store and use. The squeezable tube lets you control how much comes out, so you do not waste any. You can carry these tubes in your bag or keep them in your bathroom. They do not break or leak easily.

  • Plastic tubes keep air out, so your creams and lotions last longer.
  • You only touch what you use, which keeps germs away.
  • The tube keeps your gel or cream safe from dirt and bacteria.

Plastic squeeze tubes work for thick or thin products. You can get them in travel sizes or big packs. This makes them great for busy people.

Serums, Cleansers, Treatments

Serums and treatments often have special ingredients that need care. Cosmetic tubes help keep these ingredients fresh. You do not have to worry about air or light hurting your product. The tube gives you just the right amount each time.

  • You can use tubes for face washes, acne treatments, and hair masks.
  • The tube keeps the product safe from outside germs.
  • You get a clean and easy way to use your favorite treatments.

Plastic cosmetic tubes work for both thick and runny products. You can trust your cleanser or serum will stay good until the end.

Makeup and Hygiene Products

You find plastic cosmetic tubes in many makeup and hygiene items. They hold things like foundation, BB cream, sunscreen, and hand sanitizer. These tubes do not break, so you do not have to worry about them in your bag. The tube keeps your makeup safe from air and sunlight. Multi-layer tubes give extra protection for products with special ingredients.

Packaging is important for hygiene. You want your makeup and personal care products to stay clean. Plastic squeeze tubes help you avoid touching the rest of the product. This keeps your routine safe and neat.

Product Protection and Hygiene

Plastic cosmetic tubes are strong and protect your products well. They keep your products safe from air, germs, and sunlight. Here are some ways these tubes help:

  • The tube design stops air from getting in, so your product stays fresh.
  • You do not touch the inside of the tube, which lowers the risk of bacteria.
  • The tube acts as a barrier, keeping your product clean and safe.

You can trust your skincare and haircare products will last longer in these tubes. The packaging helps keep the active ingredients strong and working.

Tip: Always close your tube tightly after you use it. This helps keep your product fresh and clean.

Xinfly Packaging: Product Application Examples

You can see how Xinfly Packaging uses different cosmetic tubes for many beauty products. Here is a table that shows some examples:

Tube TypeDescription
Polyethylene tubesStandard plastic tubes for many uses.
Sugar cane tubesEco-friendly tubes made from plants.
PCR plastic tubesTubes made from recycled materials.
ABL Cosmetic TubeSpecial barrier tubes for sensitive products.
PBL Cosmetic TubesLight and flexible tubes for easy use.
Aluminum TubeStrong and recyclable tubes for fancy products.

You can see that Xinfly Packaging has many choices. You can pick the tube that fits your product best.

Versatility and Convenience for All Product Types

Plastic cosmetic tubes are known for being versatile and easy to use. You can use them for skincare, haircare, makeup, and hygiene products. The tubes are light, so shipping costs less. You can also have fun designs with special printing and labels. The reclosable top keeps your products clean and simple to use.

  • The squeezable tube lets you control how much you use.
  • Brands like these tubes because they are cheap and easy to design.
  • You can find features like seals that show if the tube was opened and special finishes.

Plastic squeeze tubes help you get the most from your beauty products. You enjoy safe, clean, and easy packaging every day.

Customization in Plastic Cosmetic Packaging

Tube Sizes and Shapes

You have many choices when it comes to tube sizes and shapes in plastic cosmetic packaging. Standard round tubes remain popular because they look simple and work well for most products. Oval tubes give you a better grip and stand out on store shelves. Some brands use custom shapes to make their products unique. You can find tubes as small as sample sizes or as large as family-size containers. This range lets you pick the right size for your needs.

The shape and size of a tube can change how you feel about a product. Tall, skinny tubes often look elegant and fit well with luxury skincare. Short, wide tubes feel practical and work best for hand creams or balms. When you choose a tube, you also choose how your product will be seen by others. The right design can make your product look more valuable or easier to use.

Tip: Try different tube shapes to see which one fits your brand and product best.

Cap and Applicator Options

Caps and applicators add even more choices to plastic cosmetic packaging. You can pick from flip-top caps, screw caps, or disc tops. Each type helps you control how much product comes out. Some tubes have special applicators, like brush tips or roller balls. These make it easy to apply creams, gels, or serums right where you want them.

Here is a table of common cap and applicator options:

Cap TypeBest ForSpecial Feature
Flip-topEveryday lotionsEasy one-hand use
Screw capThick creams, balmsSecure closure
Disc topShampoos, conditionersControlled dispensing
Brush tipEye creams, concealersSmooth application
Roller ballSerums, spot treatmentsGentle massage effect

You can match the cap or applicator to your product for the best user experience. This helps your customers use every drop without waste.

Branding and Decoration

Branding and decoration play a big role in plastic cosmetic packaging. You can use colors, logos, and special finishes to show off your brand. Good design helps people remember your products and makes them want to buy again. When you use high-quality materials and unique looks, your products can feel more special and even luxurious.

The way you decorate your packaging can create an emotional connection with your customers. Bright colors and bold fonts catch the eye. Soft colors and simple designs can make your brand look calm and trustworthy. Consistent design across all your products helps people recognize your brand quickly.

Note: Strong branding and creative decoration can turn simple packaging into a powerful marketing tool.

You can use the versatility in design and branding to make your products stand out. With so many options, you can create packaging that fits your style and meets your customers’ needs.

Convenience and User Experience

Squeezability and Portability

People want beauty products that are easy to use and carry. Plastic round cosmetic tubes help with this. You can squeeze the tube to get just enough product. This makes your routine quick and neat. In South Korea, many people pick squeezable tubes for convenience and hygiene. These tubes fit in your bag or pocket. You can take them anywhere you go. You do not need to worry about spills or messes. The tubes are light, so they do not make your bag heavy. Many people also like that these tubes are eco-friendly. This matches their healthy lifestyle.

Controlled Dispensing

Plastic round cosmetic tubes let you control how much you use. You squeeze gently, and only what you need comes out. This keeps your products fresh and stops waste. Brands like Dove use these tubes for good packaging. Controlled dispensing keeps germs and air out. Your creams, lotions, or gels last longer and stay safe.

Here is a table that shows how these tubes compare to other packaging:

FeatureBenefit
Easy to squeezeLets you control how much comes out
Protection from contaminationKeeps products fresh and lasts longer
Portable and travel-friendlyEasy to take with you
Customizable designsWorks for many product types

You can see these tubes are smart for many products. You get easy use and good function in one package.

Travel-Friendly Design

Travel can be hard, but your packaging should not make it worse. Plastic round cosmetic tubes are great for trips. They have features that help you:

  • Durability: Multi-layer tubes protect from bumps and drops.
  • Lightweight design: You can pack more and your bag stays light.
  • Secure closures: Flip-top caps stop leaks and spills.
  • Flexible materials: Tubes handle pressure changes on planes.

Leakproof tubes are important for travel. Strong caps and tough materials keep your products safe. You do not need to worry about spills when you fly. These features show why people trust plastic tubes for travel.

Tip: Pick tubes with strong closures for your next trip. You will feel calm and your products will stay safe.

More beauty brands now use eco-friendly packaging. This helps the planet and gives people what they want. Many shoppers look for products with less plastic and less trash. You can find new packaging that supports green choices in beauty.

Recyclable and Biodegradable Tubes

Brands use recyclable and biodegradable tubes more often now. These tubes help you protect the environment. You can recycle plastic tubes or pick ones that break down on their own. Some companies use bioplastics from plants, which are better for nature than regular plastic. Xinfly Packaging has sugarcane bioplastic tubes and PCR recycled plastic tubes. These choices lower carbon impact and help the earth.

Here are some popular eco-friendly tube choices:

  • Biodegradable tubes
  • Recyclable plastic tubes
  • Recyclable aluminum tubes
  • Tubes made from recycled materials

Recyclable mono-materials make recycling tubes easier. This supports the circular economy, where materials get reused instead of thrown away.

Refillable and Reusable Options

You can find refillable and reusable cosmetic tubes now. These tubes let you use the same tube again, so you make less trash. Many brands have bamboo tubes or aluminum-plastic tubes you can refill. These tubes come in different sizes and work for many products.

Product TypeMaterialSize OptionsFeatures
Bamboo TubePlastic + Bamboo15ml, 30ml, 50mlRecycled Materials, Recyclable
  • Refillable bamboo deodorant tubes work for lip balm or lipstick.
  • You can get them in sizes like 3g or 5g.
  • Refillable aluminum plastic tubes work for many cosmetics and have leakproof caps.

Choosing refillable packaging helps the planet. This trend matches what people want—less trash and more green choices.

Sustainable Manufacturing

Sustainable manufacturing matters for beauty packaging’s future. Companies use less energy and make less waste now. They also use eco-friendly printing, like water-based inks, to lower pollution. Xinfly Packaging helps brands by using green materials and recyclable packaging. This lets you pick products that match your values.

Here is a table of green practices:

PracticeDescription
Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR)Tubes can use up to 50% PCR materials, so less new plastic is needed.
Mono-Material ConstructionTubes made from one material are easier to recycle and better for the earth.
Eco-Friendly PrintingWater-based inks lower pollution and help keep the air clean.

More brands use sustainability as part of their story. They focus on green materials and recyclable mono-materials. Simple designs and waterless packaging are popular too. Many people want products that support a circular economy and use fair-trade, green materials.

Did you know? 75% of shoppers say less plastic waste matters when they buy beauty products. You can help by picking packaging that supports green choices.

Industry Outlook for Plastic Cosmetic Tubes

Big changes are coming to the plastic cosmetic tube market soon. The market will grow from USD 2.9 billion in 2025 to USD 4.6 billion by 2035. This means it will get bigger every year by 4.7%. More people want packaging that is easy and safe for their beauty routines. Brands are working hard to make new ideas for these needs.

Here are some new trends and cool inventions you should know:

  • Refillable systems let you put new product inside the same tube. This helps you make less trash and save money.
  • Biodegradable plastics give you choices that are better for the earth. These materials break down faster and help nature.
  • Smart packaging can tell you if your product is still good or if it is old. This helps you use your cosmetics safely.
  • Better barrier technology keeps creams and lotions fresh longer. These barriers stop air and germs from getting inside.

Brands care about making things easy and helping the planet. They want you to enjoy your beauty products and help the earth at the same time.

Regulatory Developments

Rules for plastic cosmetic tubes change a lot. You need to know about these changes because they affect what you buy. Governments make new rules for safety, recycling, and being eco-friendly.

Here is a table that shows some important rule changes:

Regulatory AspectDescription
Globalization and HarmonizationBrands must follow different rules in each place. They need packaging that fits local laws.
SustainabilityThe EU has strict rules for recycled stuff and bans single-use plastics.
DigitalizationSmart packaging helps brands follow rules and talk to you.
Recent DevelopmentsSouth Korea has tough rules for recycling and eco-friendly packaging.

New rules also change what materials go into cosmetic tubes. You will see more tubes made from plastics that follow recycling and composting rules. Brands must remove recycling symbols from things that do not count. They also need to keep good records to show they follow the rules.

Here is a table that explains how these new rules change cosmetic packaging:

Impact of New Regulations on Plastic Cosmetic TubesDescription
Stricter definitions for recyclability and compostabilityBrands must use materials that fit these standards.
Removal of recyclability symbols from ineligible itemsThis stops confusion and helps you know the truth.
Need for strong recordkeeping and substantiationBrands must show proof to avoid trouble and build trust.

You can expect more changes soon. Brands will keep making better cosmetic packaging to follow new laws and help you.

Plastic round cosmetic tubes are a safe and simple way to use beauty products. They come in lots of sizes and styles. Some brands use plant-based and refillable tubes to help the earth. Custom designs help products look special and fit your style. When you choose a tube, remember these things:

  • Plant-based and refillable tubes make less trash.
  • Custom designs let your brand show its style.
  • The right tube keeps your product fresh and safe.
FactorWhy It Matters
SustainabilityHelps protect the environment
AppearanceMakes your product look appealing
DurabilityKeeps your product safe and lasting
CompatibilityPrevents damage to your beauty formula
MaterialSupports recycling and eco-friendly choices

Pick carefully so your brand and the planet both get the best.

Frequently Asked Questions

Discover what plastic round cosmetic tubes are, how they are used in beauty products, and how to choose the right style, material and decoration for your brand.

Q1What are plastic round cosmetic tubes?
Plastic round cosmetic tubes are cylindrical squeeze tubes made from materials like PE or PCR-PE. They are widely used for skincare, haircare, body care and makeup because they are easy to fill, decorate and squeeze, with 360° printable surface for branding.
Q2Which beauty products commonly use round plastic tubes?
Round tubes are ideal for hand cream, body lotion, face cleanser, sunscreen, hair masks, scrubs, shower gels and some makeup formulas. Their familiar shape and smooth walls make them suitable for both mass-market and premium beauty ranges.
Q3What are the main advantages of round cosmetic tubes for brands?
Advantages include comfortable hand feel, good squeeze control, wide printing area, flexible size range from travel to full size, and compatibility with many caps and applicators. They also pack efficiently for e-commerce and retail shelves.
Q4What materials are used for plastic round cosmetic tubes?
Common materials are PE (mono- or multi-layer), PCR-PE for recycled content, co-extruded PE/EVOH structures for extra barrier, and sometimes bio-based PE from sugarcane. Xinfly Packaging can match materials to your formula stability and sustainability goals.
Q5How are round tubes different from oval or flat tubes?
Round tubes provide a full circular cross-section, giving a more classic profile and even squeeze. Oval or flat tubes create wider front panels for shelf blocking, but slightly change the grip. The right choice depends on your brand aesthetic, display style and filling line preferences.
Q6What decoration options work best on round cosmetic tubes?
You can use silk-screen printing for bold brand elements, offset printing for gradients and imagery, and hot-stamping for metallic logos. Round tubes are also great for 360° wraps, gradients, soft-touch matte and spot-UV finishes to create a premium look.
Q7Which caps and applicators can be paired with round tubes?
Round cosmetic tubes can be combined with flip-top caps, stand caps, screw caps, disc-tops, airless pumps and special nozzles. This flexibility lets you adapt the same tube family for cleansers, lotions, targeted treatments or travel sets.
Q8Are plastic round cosmetic tubes suitable for eco-friendly beauty brands?
Yes. By using PCR content, bio-based PE or mono-material designs, round tubes can support recycling and lower carbon footprint. Clear claims like “Contains 30% PCR” and “Mono-PE tube & cap” help communicate your sustainability story to consumers.
Q9How do I choose the right size of round tube for my beauty product?
Match your fill volume and viscosity with consumer usage habits. For example, 20–30 ml for travel or eye-area care, 30–75 ml for face products and hand cream, and 100–200 ml for body care. Xinfly Packaging can recommend diameter and height combinations for optimal feel and visual balance.
Q10How can Xinfly Packaging support my round cosmetic tube project?
Xinfly Packaging offers material selection, structure design, decoration guidance, Pantone color matching, on-substrate samples and full OEM/ODM support. We help you choose the right round tube solution for your beauty product line, from first concept to mass production.

Want to develop plastic round tubes for your beauty line?

Share your formula type, target volume, material preference and decoration style — Xinfly Packaging will recommend round tube options and prepare samples for your brand.

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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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