Metallisation
According to Euromonitor, metallisation has become increasing popular in colour cosmetics packaging this year, providing a premium look without the price.
“Metal retains its position at the premium end of the packaging hierarchy, but the problem for manufacturers and brands is how to enjoy the benefits of metal without having to charge consumers exorbitant amounts for it.”
In line with this trend, manufacturers including HCP, Albéa and Rexam have all launched products featuring the effect.
Albéa’s Highshine Color sensational lipstick for Maybelline featured a co-polyester (PCTG) pink cap and a silver-plated ABS plastic base with a holographic film on all four sides to create a multi-coloured reflection of light within the packaging, giving off an air of luxury.
With the global cosmetics packaging sector to reach as high as $24bn by the end of the year, market researcher Visiongain says “Cosmetic producers are adding integrated applicators and innovative techniques to its packaging and all these factors are enabling solid growth prospects for the global cosmetics packaging markets.”
Interactivity
Meanwhile, market researcher Mintel noted a rise in packaging and products that increase the interactivity between the virtual and real world .
“Interactivity elements in beauty packaging will start to make their mark globally over the coming year and beyond,” says Nica Lewis, Mintel global skincare analyst.
With many companies opting for QR codes, sound or videos, brands are becoming increasing aware that interactivity can enrich the product experience – and ultimately bring it closer to the consumer than ever before.
Urban Decay is one company that's invested with its ‘Book of Shadows’ palette, featuring a built in USB port built to enable users to download makeup tutorials and listen to music while applying the product.
Greener packaging
As industry professionals become more conscious of being green, the sun care sector has been driving the demand for products featuring sugarcane-based polyethylene packaging.
In recent months, brands like J&J, P&G and Shiseido have introduced product lines onto the market from sugarcane ethanol a '100 percent renewable raw material that is also used as fuel in flex cars not only prevents CO2 emissions but also removes CO2 from the atmosphere.'
In January, Johnson & Johnson, teamed up with Braskem, a petrochemical company to develop bio-plastic packaging for its Sundown sun care line.
“The sustainable balance of green plastic shows that for each ton of green polyethylene produced, 2.5 tons of CO2 are captured and sequestered. Another advantage is that green plastic is 100% recyclable using existing processes”, a Braskem spokesperson told CosmeticsDesign.com USA.