On Display: Tubes - Tracking Tube Trends
Tinted Finish
A unit-of-use tube can be supplied with a tinted finish that allows products such as cream, liquid, and paste to be seen through the tube. Various colors can be used to tint the PrismaPak tube, which is available in sizes from 5 to 30 mm. High-definition graphics can be added using enhanced technology. The tube's tip and butt can be custom shaped. In addition to contract packaging services, the supplier offers single-use tubes in a range of films, including multilayer polyethylene, Saran, and laminated foil. Unette Corp., Wharton, NJ.
Tube Offerings
Tandem, a large-diameter oval tube, is just one of a supplier's tube offerings. Others include a tube with an angled applicator for eye, skin, and lip products; an airless tube to protect sensitive formulas; and a dual-chambered tube for products that require that ingredients remain separate until the moment of use. Pigmented and embossed laminates can be provided. Tube closures include the CebalCap, a soft-profile, oriented flip-top closure, which is available in four diameters and can be sealed with a decorated shrink band. Cebal Americas, Norwalk, CT.
Unit-Dose Vial
A unit-dose vial is designed to eliminate liquid retention in the vial's neck, allowing virtually all of a product in the vial to be dispensed. The one-piece AccuDrop vial features a twist-off tab and a 1-ml bulb made from a special blend of low- and high-density polyethylene, which is designed to improve the bulb's squeezability and barrier capabilities. Custom bulb shapes are possible. Decorating options include color-matched pigments, embossing on the tab, and ink-jet printing on the bulb. Unicep Packaging Inc., Sandpoint, ID.
Laminate Tube
To house Zotos International's ISO Maintamer straightening system, a tube was made from a laminate material that protects the cream from oxidation and moisture. With a 1.5-in. diameter, the tube features three-color letterpress-printed graphics and a blue shoulder and neck made from high-density polyethylene. The package is designed to stand on its ribbed cap. Foil and nonfoil tubes can also be provided. Montebello Packaging, Oak Park, IL.
Custom Colors
A supplier specializes in custom coloring cosmetic and personal care tubes. Decorative looks include Pantone-matched colors and metallic, opaque, pearlescent, and tinted finishes. Frosted, high-gloss, matte, and soft-touch coatings can be applied. Graphics can be added with six-color offset printing, silk-screening, hot-foil stamping, and labeling. The tubes are made of low-, medium-, and high-density polyethylene, in various lengths, with diameters ranging from 5/8 to 2 in. JSN Packaging Products Inc., Irvine, CA.
Upscale Look
A sparkly, coextruded multilayer flexible tube can be used for creating upscale packaging. To achieve the sparkly effect, a metallic colorant is added to the tube's virgin resin during the extrusion process. Graphics can be added via hot stamping, pressure-sensitive labeling, silk-screening in up to three colors, and offset printing in up to eight colors. The tube is available in diameters from 3/4 to 2 3/16 in., with compatible head and neck finishes. CCL Plastic Packaging Inc., Los Angeles, CA.