When it comes to developing a skincare range, a lot of work goes into ensuring the product formula packs a punch. However, to ensure consumers are drawn to your product, it’s also important to pay close attention to the packaging you choose, to ensure it conveys the right message.
Opting for amber glass packaging is one way to demonstrate to potential customers that your product as a luxurious, high-end option. However, there are a number of other benefits that make this material an appealing option. Keep reading for the full low-down on amber glass packaging.
How is amber glass made?
Before we get into the various advantages associated with the use of amber glass, here’s an overview of how it comes into being:
- Sand, soda ash, and limestone are heated to an incredibly high temperature.
- Once the mixture is molten, melted iron, sulphur, and carbon are added, to give it an amber hue.
- Machines are then used to shape the liquid glass into a jar, bottle, or another shape.
- As the glass cools down, it becomes solid, and retains its new shape.
Benefits of using amber glass for cosmetic packaging
- Amber glass is virtually inert: As a packaging material for cosmetics, amber glass is preferable due to its inert nature. Glass is a chemically neutral material, which means that it does not react with the formula of the cosmetic product. This is important because it ensures that the product's ingredients are not affected or altered by the packaging, which can help to maintain the product's effectiveness and purity. Additionally, it also ensures that no harmful chemicals or toxins leach into the product from the packaging, making it safe for use on the skin.
- Protects the product from blue light and UV rays: Given that most people’s skincare products are stored on shelves for easy reach, they are likely to come into contact with natural light, which can result in changes to a product’s formula, leading it to become unusable. It’s for this reason that product storage instructions often include a warning against storing the product in direct sunlight.
Unlike normal glass, or other forms of colored glass, amber glass absorbs the wavelengths from hazardous lights, protecting the product from unwanted changes to the product’s integrity, and degradation.
- Acts as a barrier: In addition to protecting a product from UV rays, amber glass also provides a high level of barrier protection. Glass is an excellent barrier to gases, moisture, and other environmental factors that can affect the quality of cosmetics. This barrier protection helps to keep the product fresh and prevents contamination, which can be particularly important for cosmetics that are used around the eyes or on other sensitive areas of the face.
- A touch of vintage: Amber glass is aesthetically pleasing, from its warm, golden tone to the way it catches the light. These types of bottles and jars conjure up images of old-fashioned pharmacy bottles and perfumes. This touch of elegance makes amber glass a popular choice for brands, as it evokes a sense of luxury that many consumers find appealing. This color can be particularly appealing for natural or organic cosmetics, which often have earthy, natural color palettes.
The weight of glass in the hand, as well as the smooth texture, only adds to the product’s perceived worth. As a result of this aesthetic appeal, opting for amber glass can add value to your product, allowing you to charge a higher price.
- Versatility: As a packaging option, amber glass is extremely versatile. It can be used for a variety of products, including:
- Moisturizers and serums
- Essential oils
- Cosmetics
- Lip balms
It’s a particularly popular option for essential oils, as it stops them from turning rancid.
- Sustainability: Another benefit of amber glass is that it is a more eco-friendly option than its plastic counterparts. Glass is an environmentally friendly and sustainable packaging option, as it can be easily recycled without losing its quality. This can be particularly appealing for cosmetics companies that are looking to reduce their environmental impact and appeal to eco-conscious consumers.
One thing to bear in mind is that despite all the benefits above, it's important to consider that glass can be fragile and may not be suitable for products that will be transported frequently or for products meant to be used on the go. Additionally, amber glass containers are heavier than plastic packaging options, making them more expensive to ship.
Here at APG, we have a range of amber packaging options available. They can be easily customized with labeling and branding, and it can be made in a variety of shapes and sizes to suit different product needs. If you’d like to discuss your packaging requirements, then reach out to speak to a member of our sales team.