With hundreds of cosmetic products currently on the market, it’s no wonder that the cosmetic label printing industry is constantly evolving.
The industry very much focuses on the image and originality of their product labels due to its vast competition. The cosmetic sector’s annual growth is approximately between 8 to 10%, with the growth amongst the labelling consultancy industry at around 15%.
These days the old paper facestocks have now been replaced by Filmics, this is due to paper’s lower costs which makes it more favourable within the market. They can be off-machine coated to give a gloss or matt effect producing a much higher quality finish. If a product’s contents could damage the label, it can also be protected by over laminating or UV varnishing.
The method of Filmic printing can produce a more durable label that is able to resist moisture. Direc t decoration is now being less sought after with the preferred ‘no look’ label taking its place. This method is more cost effective and emphasises its graphics.
A more luxurious looking cosmetics label can be produced by using both a polyester Facestock and polyester liner. This will give a clear on clear laminate finish. A new generation of lower priced alternatives are now becoming available. ‘Crispan’ is a new white or clear synthetic paper based polyester that has been created by the company Tagsa, they have also stated supplying PET/PET that can produce an amazing clarity.
For smaller runs of cosmetic labels the method of flatbed/semi-rotary and rotary UV letterpress printing is still commonly used. The printed labels can then have a range of finishes such as over-laminating, embossing or varnishing. However, the modern combination presses can offer greater quality and flexibility.
For the higher end of the market, the labels need to be continually produced to a high quality finish in order for profits to grow. New machines within the printing industry, such as the Nilpeter/Xeikon DC-3300,will also help in producing digitally coloured labels for extra short and trial runs. The market is also eagerly awaiting the development of DAS linerless labels along with liquid paper and UV curable adhesives.
