Types of cosmetic tubes: plastic vs aluminum vs laminate.
Cosmetic tubes are one of the most widely used packaging formats in the skincare and personal care industries. Tubes provide convenient dispensing, protect product formulations, and allow brands to create attractive packaging that stands out on store shelves.
There are several types of cosmetic tubes used across the beauty and pharmaceutical industries, each offering unique advantages depending on the product being packaged.
Plastic tubes
Plastic tubes are among the most common options. These tubes are lightweight, flexible, and ideal for products such as lotions, cleansers, sunscreens, and moisturizers. Plastic tubes are typically sealed using hot air or ultrasonic sealing methods. Plastic tube filling services →
Laminate tubes
Laminate tubes combine layers of plastic and aluminum to provide additional barrier protection while maintaining the flexibility of plastic packaging. These tubes are commonly used for premium cosmetic products and formulations that require additional protection from air or light exposure.
Aluminum tubes
Aluminum tubes offer the highest level of barrier protection. These tubes are commonly used for pharmaceutical ointments, medicated creams, and specialty cosmetic formulations. Aluminum tubes are sealed using a crimping process that creates a secure and tamper-resistant closure. Aluminum tube filling services →
Also in the mix
- Airless tubes for sensitive, preservative-light formulas
- Eco-friendly and PCR (post-consumer recycled) tubes
- Custom and oval tube formats
- Injection molded tubes with in-mold labeling (IML)
We work with all styles and types of cosmetic tubes—plastic, laminated, aluminum, squeeze, airless, eco-friendly, custom and oval. Not sure which fits your formula? See how each type is sealed →