There are strict materials regarding safety with cosmetic packaging that comes into contact with skin. Safety is always the priority; no packaging can pose any risks for skin, skin contact, chemical leaching, and skin irritation for any potential risks. Materials that are safe to work with skin should be non-toxic, and should not react with the active ingredients in the cosmetic fragrances. There are also international safety standards for materials. Safety standards say that the materials should be free from risks, such are heavy metals that can be found in phthalates and formaldehyde releasers. All of the potentially harmful materials should be eliminated.
PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate)
Companies that create cosmetics often select to package their products in polyethylene terphthalate (PET). This lightweight plastic is fully transparent and has superb barrier qualities that protect the contents of a container. PET is no toxic, and will not pollute the products that it contains, which is why it is often used to package lotions, shampoos, and facial mists. PET is fully recyclable, which is why many cosmetic companies have begun to select it in answer to the growing need for environmentally responsible packaging. This plastic is also durable, and will not break or leak during transit and everyday activities.
PP (Polypropylene)
Another secure and safe option for packaging cosmetics is polypropylene (PP). This plastic is also heat, chemical, and toxic resistant. For this reason, is a good option for packaging body washes and facial cleansers because those products need to also go through a high temperature sterilization process. Additionally, it is often used to create squeeze tubes, and bottles that are used to package body washes and other products. This will also result in a better experience for consumers. This is also a good option because it is fully recyclable, and has a low amount of waste.
Glass
Glass is a classic material for cosmetic packaging because it is safe and versatile. It is also non-porous, which means it does not absorb chemicals or bacteria. This is important for products like essential oils and serums, which can be sensitive to contamination. It is true that glass is heavier and more fragile than plastic but it’s premium look and feel, makes it a top choice for many cosmetics companies. To help prevent breakage many glass packaging solutions come with protective sleeves and caps.
Safe packaging materials can also help enhance the usability of the products. For example, because PET and PP have excellent barriers to moisture and oxygen, the shelf life of the cosmetics is improved by protecting the products from oxidative degradation and the growth of microorganisms. Glass also provides a reliable seal so the products can stay fresh for an extended time. Safe packaging materials also support unique manufacturing techniques like injection molding and blow molding which allows cosmetics to offer varying designs and shapes.
The focus on safety in cosmetic packaging offers several commercial benefits to the brands that embrace it. Increasingly, consumers are focused on the safety of the products they are purchasing, and the materials that the products are packaged in. Brands that use safe (non-toxic and eco-friendly) materials for packaging are likely to attract the health and eco-conscious consumer, which will enhance the brand and overall market competitiveness.This will avoid the brand losing time and money to seek new customers, and will be rewarded with repeat sales.
It is important, and often costly, to test materials before committing to them. Before a brand can use a cosmetic packaging material, it must first be recognized by the brand that a product structure incompatibility exists in many cases, and a brand must perform a copious amount of testing to ensure that the material does not react negatively with any of the product. This material must also be valid and certified by the governing bodies of the area to which the product will be sold (FDA for the United States, for example). There is a growing expectation for brands to consider sustainability for their packaging materials, and there is justification for it from a consumer perspective. There are far too many materials to choose from that are safe for the consumer and the planet. Brands do not have to create a safe and clean environment for only the consumer's skin. They can also create a safe and clean environment for the world we live in.
EN
