Metals like aluminum, steel, and tin are used in various cosmetic products, from lipstick tubes to compact cases. Metal packaging is an underrated superstar in the packaging world, as it provides sustainability and has a high recycling rate.
According to Statistics, the metal packaging industry is estimated to be worth $135.2 billion globally by 2027. This signifies the high demand for metals in food packaging and cosmetics. Here’s why!
Types of Metal Packaging Materials
1. Aluminum
Aluminum is one of the most used custom cosmetics packaging materials because of its durability and feasibility. It is lightweight, shiny, and does not rust easily, making it an excellent choice for its modern yet classic look and long life.
Being light in weight, it is also super easy for users to carry around. As a barrier material, it protects the products against UV, germs, and temperature changes. Additionally, the material is recyclable.
2. Steel
Another excellent option for reliable cosmetic packaging is stainless steel. It is rust—and stain-resistant, making it perfect for everyday use. The rugged and sturdy material makes it suitable for e-commerce cosmetic packaging. Steel can easily withstand rough delivery services while keeping the products safe.
It is also waterproof and available in a wide range of sizes. Therefore, a single material can be used for all cosmetic packages, including cream jars and bottles.
3. Tin
Lastly, tin is another option for custom metal packaging. It combines an excellent and classic look, exuding an old-school charm. Cosmetic metal containers made of tin are rust-resistant, keeping the product inside safe for longer.
It is also easy to mold, making it perfect for brands that want to be creative with their cosmetics packaging designs.
Benefits of Using Metal Packaging for Cosmetics
Here’s why you should use metal cosmetics packaging to enhance the safety and sales of your products!
1. Durability and Tamper-Resistant
Metallic packaging is the safest choice regarding the durability of packaging materials. Glass is easily breakable, while plastic usually wears down with time. In contrast, metals are often rigid and can last longer than glass or plastic.
They can easily withstand any falls while still maintaining their shine and shape. Moreover, they are also tamper-resistant.
2. Product Barrier Protection
You must be careful about choosing the type of cosmetics packaging as not every material is sunlight resistant. Not every type of glass or plastic can protect the product against external factors like UV rays.
Conversely, metals like aluminum keep the products safe against harsh sunlight, moisture, and variations in temperature.
3. Recyclability and Sustainability
Aluminum and steel are two of the most recycled materials worldwide. Therefore, you can keep the environment safe by choosing either of these two metals for cosmetics packaging. Aluminum can be repeatedly recycled without losing its quality.
Using metal packaging, cosmetic brands can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and appeal to a growing market segment.
4. Attractive Product Appeal
Metal cosmetic packaging also improves the visual appeal of cosmetic products, making them stand out and attracting more customers. It gives your products a sleek yet modern look and conveys viewers a sense of luxury and durability.
This helps brands quickly gain new customers. Moreover, they can be easily shaped or embossed with intricate patterns, allowing brand owners to reflect their brand identity and values through unique designs.
Drawbacks of Using Metal Packaging for Cosmetics
1. Compatibility Testing
Metals can react with certain ingredients, leading to redox reactions, which change the composition of the products. This raises questions about the safety and efficacy of cosmetics.
Therefore, metal packaging must undergo extensive testing to ensure that the packaging does not compromise the formulation of products. This takes a lot of time and costs to prevent the complications of metal packaging before releasing the product.
2. Elevated Costs
If we compare the cost of metal, glass, and plastic jar packaging, metallic is the most expensive option. This may be due to the higher cost of raw metal materials and the extra coatings required to prevent corrosion.
Hence, brands striving to balance affordability and quality must consider cost before choosing the final material for their packaging.
3. Manufacturing Complexities
Although metals are easily moldable, they still have some manufacturing complexities. Keeping the packaging too thin imposes the risk of denting while making it thick will increase the weight, thus adding to the shipping costs.
Processing metals requires several machines, such as splitting and seaming machines, and skilled professionals to achieve the desired results. Hiring them can be expensive. Moreover, a slight mistake may lead to production delays.
4. Corrosion Risk
Lastly, metal packaging is significantly associated with the risk of corrosion. Exposure to acidic content or moisture starts the rusting process, leading to the degradation of metal packaging. This compromises not only the packaging but also the quality of the product.
The potential for corrosion-related issues can lead to increased costs and challenges in maintaining product quality over time, making it a critical concern for cosmetic manufacturers.
Conclusion
Metals are used worldwide because they are durable, recyclable, and provide a barrier against external factors like light, moisture, and oxygen. Their shiny appearance and the ability to be molded in various shapes make them a good choice for packaging your carefully manufactured products.
However, it can be a little costly as compatibility tests and protective coatings over the metal are required to ensure that the packaging and product remain unharmed. Want to know more about custom cosmetics packaging? Contact VCPAK.
