The Comprehensive Guide to Custom Cosmetic Tubes
Cosmetic tubes are used to package a wide variety of formulations, including skincare creams, serums, foundations, lip glosses, concealers, sunscreens, and hair care treatments. Their functionality, combined with nearly limitless customization potential, makes them a dominant choice for both emerging beauty startups and global manufacturers.
This guide explores every aspect of the cosmetic tube: its construction, material types, production processes, customization options, decoration methods, and what to look for in a cosmetic tube manufacturer.
1. What Is a Cosmetic Tube?
A cosmetic tube is a flexible, cylindrical container used to store and dispense semi-liquid or viscous formulations such as creams, gels, lotions, and oils. The tube is typically closed at one end and fitted with a dispensing cap or applicator at the other, allowing controlled release through gentle pressure.
This simple yet effective packaging format has become standard in cosmetics, personal care, and pharmaceuticals due to its ease of use, cleanliness, portability, and compatibility with diverse product viscosities.
The most widely used form is the cosmetic squeeze tube, a soft tube that allows precise product dispensing with a simple squeeze. Unlike rigid containers, squeeze tubes minimize product waste, enhance hygiene, and improve the user’s tactile experience.
tube structure display, source: https://www.lissonpackaging.com/
2. Structure and Components of a Cosmetic Tube
A cosmetic tube generally consists of several key components:
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Tube Body: The main cylindrical section that holds the formula.
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Shoulder: The slanted or straight section that connects the body to the neck.
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Neck/Orifice: The opening that dispenses the product.
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Cap or Closure: The part that seals and protects the contents.
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Applicator (optional): Added for precise application—such as doe foot, brush, or silicone tip options.
Advanced custom cosmetic tubes can also include internal barriers, multi-layer laminations, or built-in applicators to accommodate specialized formulas.
3. Common Materials Used for Wholesale Private Lable Cosmetic Tubes
Material selection is critical in tube design. The choice influences cost, barrier properties, sustainability, and overall appearance.
a. PE (Polyethylene)
The most common material for cosmetic squeeze tubes. PE offers flexibility, impact resistance, and compatibility with a broad range of skincare and makeup products.
b. PP (Polypropylene)
Often used for caps and closures due to its rigidity and chemical resistance.
c. ABL (Aluminum Barrier Laminate)
Combines aluminum with plastic layers for superior barrier protection. Ideal for light-sensitive or oxygen-sensitive formulations such as whitening creams, retinol, or SPF products.
d. PBL (Plastic Barrier Laminate)
Offers excellent protection without metal layers, providing recyclability benefits.
e. PCR-PE (Post-Consumer Recycled Polyethylene)
Made from recycled materials, PCR-PE is a sustainable option increasingly favored by eco-conscious brands.
f. Sugarcane PE (Bio-based Plastic)
A renewable, plant-derived alternative to fossil-based plastics, offering identical functionality with lower environmental impact.
g. Aluminum
A premium option that delivers a luxurious metallic finish and complete light and oxygen barrier. Common for high-end skincare or haircare products.
4. Filling Capacity and Dimensions
Cosmetic tubes w/ customization come in a wide range of diameters and volumes depending on the formula type and intended use.
Typical configurations include:
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Diameter: 13mm – 60mm
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Filling Capacity: 5ml – 250ml
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Applications:
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5–15ml for lip gloss, concealer, or serum
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20–50ml for BB creams or travel-sized skincare
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75–150ml for facial cleansers or hand creams
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200ml+ for hair care and body lotions
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For precision cosmetics such as lip gloss, mascara, or concealer, custom cosmetic tubes with applicators—such as curved silicone tips, doe foot wands, or brushes—are increasingly popular.
5. Types of Cosmetic Tubes by Function and Design
a. Standard Cosmetic Squeeze Tube
The classic soft tube used for skincare, sunscreen, and hand cream. Offers excellent flexibility and easy product dispensing.
b. Laminated Cosmetic Tube
Combines multiple layers to improve barrier performance and maintain product integrity.
c. Airless Cosmetic Tube
A high-performance tube with a piston or airless pump that prevents contamination and oxidation. Ideal for serums and premium formulations.
d. Dual-Chamber Tube
Houses two separate formulas in one tube, allowing for combination products such as dual-action treatments or color-correcting creams.
e. Squeeze Tube with Applicator
Includes built-in applicators (metal roller, silicone tip, brush, or doe foot) for targeted application — commonly used for lip care, eye creams, or spot treatments.
6. Decoration and Customization Options
The aesthetic presentation of a custom cosmetic tube is often as important as its functionality. Manufacturers offer a range of decoration technologies to align with brand identity.
a. Offset Printing
Ideal for high-volume production, enabling up to 8-color printing with precise registration.
b. Silk Screen Printing
Used for vibrant, tactile designs with strong color opacity.
c. Hot Stamping
Adds a premium metallic accent in gold, silver, or rose gold foil.
d. Labeling
Suitable for small runs or variable designs, offering cost-effective flexibility.
e. Metallization and Lacquering
Creates a glossy, reflective, or frosted finish that enhances visual appeal.
f. Embossing or Debossing
Provides tactile dimension for logos or brand names.
Every cosmetic tube manufacturer provides unique combinations of these decoration methods to create a truly custom appearance.
7. Sustainability in Cosmetic Tube Manufacturing
As sustainability becomes a global standard, cosmetic tube manufacturers are investing heavily in greener solutions.
a. Recyclable Mono-Material Tubes
Made from single-type plastics (e.g., PE/PE), ensuring full recyclability.
b. PCR and Bio-based Materials
Using PCR-PE and sugarcane-derived polyethylene reduces carbon footprint while maintaining performance.
c. Lightweight and Reduced Resin Designs
Optimized wall thickness and lighter caps reduce plastic use and shipping emissions.
d. Refillable Tube Systems
Emerging as a solution for premium brands offering eco-refill programs.
8. Choosing the Right Cosmetic Tube Manufacturer
Selecting a reliable cosmetic tube manufacturer is crucial to ensure quality, compliance, and design consistency. Consider the following criteria:
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Manufacturing Experience: Evaluate years of industry expertise and production capacity.
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Material Capabilities: Confirm they offer PE, ABL, PCR, and sustainable alternatives.
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Decoration Range: Ensure access to multiple printing and finishing techniques.
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Quality Control: Look for ISO, GMP, or FSC certifications.
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Customization Support: The ability to produce unique shapes, colors, and applicators.
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MOQ and Lead Time: Match the manufacturer’s production schedule to your business model.
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Sustainability Practices: Preference for eco-friendly and recyclable tube options.
A professional manufacturer will provide design consultation, prototype sampling, and compatibility testing before mass production.
10. Future Trends in Cosmetic Tube Packaging
The cosmetic squeeze tube segment continues to evolve with innovation in both aesthetics and sustainability. Future developments include:
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Smart squeeze tubes with QR codes for traceability and authenticity.
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Fully compostable bio-based tubes using new biopolymers.
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Refillable tube systems for luxury brands.
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3D digital printing for mass customization and faster turnaround.
These innovations will redefine how brands deliver both performance and responsibility through packaging.
9. The Custom Cosmetic Tube Production Process
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Design & Engineering: 3D modeling and sample prototyping.
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Extrusion: Creating the tube body through extrusion of raw material.
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Heading: Fusing the shoulder and neck onto the body.
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Printing & Decoration: Applying brand graphics and finishes.
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Assembly: Attaching caps, applicators, or inserts.
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Quality Inspection: Checking dimensions, print alignment, sealing, and durability.
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Packaging & Delivery: Tubes are packed in sterile or clean-room conditions before shipment.
Conclusion
The custom cosmetic tube is more than a container; it is a strategic component of brand identity, consumer experience, and sustainability. Whether you’re developing a lip gloss, skincare cream, or premium serum, choosing the right tube structure, material, and decoration method can significantly influence how consumers perceive your brand.
Partnering with an experienced cosmetic tube manufacturer ensures consistent quality, aesthetic precision, and alignment with modern environmental standards. From classic cosmetic squeeze tubes to advanced airless and eco-friendly formats, the possibilities are endless — and the right packaging partner can bring your vision to life with technical excellence and creative precision.
