Did you know that in 2021, the UK Health and Beauty market was valued at £36.7 billion and is expected to continue growing from there?
As the beauty industry grows, the importance of high-quality, well-designed packaging has never been more apparent. In a world where first impressions are everything, brands – more than ever – must consider not only the aesthetic appeal of their products but also their functionality and sustainability.
In this article, we delve into everything you must know about beauty product packaging design, exploring which packaging is best for different products, and discussing the best sustainable packaging solutions.
What is the best packaging for skincare products?
Getting your packaging right for skincare is crucial to ensuring a product’s efficacy and shelf life.
Skincare products can require different packaging solutions, but airless pump bottles are generally considered the best option for lotions and serums.
These are designed to prevent air from entering, reduce the rate at which the product will oxidise, and are more hygienic.
Plus, from a consumer standpoint, this packaging helps provide precise dosage, reduces waste, and ensures they get the best from your brand.
What packaging is suitable for cream and ointment?
Unlike other beauty products, creams and ointments require specific packaging to preserve their texture and integrity.
Jars are ideal containers for these products, with airtight lids able to contents fresh while reducing oxidisation. When used with a spatula to scoop out the product, this packaging can be a more hygienic option too.
Tubes are another popular choice because they are hygienic, allowing consumers to squeeze out the perfect amount without contaminating the rest of the product.
This packaging is also travel-friendly and easy to dispense, which should be taken into account because it may boost your product’s appeal to its target market.
How do you package cream?
To ensure the longevity of cream cosmetic products, specific considerations must be made when choosing their packaging.
Unlike other cosmetics, cream is more susceptible to air, light and heat, which is why you will want to consider packaging solutions that minimise exposure.
For example, you may wish to use tinted or opaque packaging options to protect the cream from direct light, which can degrade key ingredients and reduce its effectiveness.
It is also important to ensure there is an airtight seal to prevent active ingredients such as Vitamin C or Retinol from being compromised by oxidisation.
How do you package skincare samples?
According to Vogue, skincare samples alone are a billion-dollar industry.
Samples are a great way for consumers to try out products before committing to buying a full-sized version.
Generally, single-use sachets or small tubes are popular packaging choices for liquid products like serums. For ointments and creams, tubes or small plastic jars are often used to hold a sample amount of the product.
These cost-effective smaller products minimise waste whilst allowing consumers to experience the product and get a feel for the brand.
What is the best sustainable beauty packaging?
Did you know that 33 per cent of UK consumers say they have rejected a purchase because of unsustainable packaging? In recent years, sustainable beauty product packaging has become increasingly important to consumers, and brands have reacted by opting for eco-friendly alternatives.
Recyclable materials: Recycled paper, plastic and glass are popular materials and are often the preferred eco-friendly option for beauty brands to help conserve natural resources and reduce the company’s carbon footprint.
Biodegradable materials: Packaging materials that break down naturally, like bamboo, sugar cane and corn starch, are popular alternatives that many beauty brands are now using because of their reduced impact on the environment.
Refillable containers: An increasing number of beauty brands have started offering refillable containers to remove the need for new packaging with each purchase. This approach not only reduces waste, it also demonstrates your brand’s commitment to sustainability and encourages customer loyalty.
Minimalist packaging: Many beauty companies reduce their packaging by streamlining the design and relying on their branding to speak for the product. This can include simple paper or card-based packaging with exciting and modern visual elements to draw consumers in.
Get in touch
At Birch, we understand the importance of high-quality beauty product packaging to enhance your brand and increase sales.
For more than 40 years, we have helped customers to elevate their brands and create a one-of-a-kind customer experience with bespoke packaging solutions.
To learn more about our beauty product packaging design service, contact the Birch team today!