In the world of cosmetic packaging, the choice of inner material is crucial for product protection, presentation, and sustainability. Below, we provide an overview of various insert materials commonly used in packaging cosmetic items: EVA Foam, Pearl Cotton, Paperboard, Vacuum Forming (Plastic Trays), and Corrugated Paper.

1. EVA Foam

EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) foam is a newly developed packaging material known for its excellent shock absorption properties. This material effectively insulates against heat and prevents moisture, making it ideal for protecting sensitive cosmetic products. Furthermore, EVA foam is environmentally friendly and non-toxic, ensuring that it complies with safety standards. As a result, it is one of the most commonly used materials for inner inserts in cosmetic packaging today.

2.Pearl Cotton

Pearl cotton is made up of countless tiny bubbles created from polyethylene foam, giving it a unique look and feel. Its flexibility and cushioning properties make it a popular choice for packing delicate items, as it can absorb shocks effectively. However, there’s a growing concern about its environmental impact. The recycling process for pearl cotton is complicated, and it doesn’t break down easily, contributing to long-lasting waste in our environment. Because of this, many companies are starting to move away from using pearl cotton, opting instead for more sustainable materials that are better for our planet.

3. Paperboard

Paperboard is a unique material that sits somewhere between regular paper and cardboard in terms of thickness. It’s a budget-friendly option, which is a huge plus. However, one downside is that it doesn’t have the strength to hold heavier products securely. This can lead to issues where items might not be held in place as well as they should be, which is a concern for brands looking to ensure their products arrive safely and intact.

4. Vacuum Forming (Plastic Trays)

Plastic trays, often made using a process called vacuum forming, are a popular choice for packaging. The way it works is pretty neat: a sheet of plastic is heated up and then stretched over a mold to create a tray that snugly fits the product. This makes them great for keeping items secure during transport while also showing them off nicely.

One of the biggest perks of plastic trays is that they’re lightweight and can be customized to fit all sorts of shapes and sizes, making them versatile for various products.

5. Corrugated Paperboard

Corrugated paperboard is made up of two layers of liner paper with a wavy, fluted layer in between, which is created using special rollers. It’s quite strong and can withstand impacts, making it excellent for protecting items during shipping. It’s also relatively lightweight, which helps keep shipping costs down.

Another great thing about corrugated paperboard is its cost-effectiveness—it’s an affordable option for many packaging needs. Plus, it’s reusable and recyclable, which makes it a more environmentally friendly choice compared to some other materials. Overall, corrugated paperboard strikes a great balance between durability and sustainability, making it a go-to option for many businesses.

Now that we’ve gotten familiar with the unique characteristics of the materials used for makeup box inserts, let’s dive into some design principles.

First, ease of access is essential. The insert must hold the products securely, but it shouldn’t be overly tight. Finding the balance where products are easy to grab without being loose is crucial.

Second, stability is vital. The insert should prevent products from shifting. To achieve this, the insert should be about 0.5 centimeters smaller than the interior of the box. This ensures a snug fit without constraints.

Finally, aesthetics matter. Since makeup sets often include a variety of products, it’s important to design the layout to highlight their individual characteristics while maintaining an overall visually appealing arrangement.

So there you have it—our insights into designing inserts for makeup boxes. Next time you’re chatting with a material manufacturer, you’ll have a better sense of what to look for.