Sustainability is no longer a trend in the beauty industry. It is a expectation. Consumers are actively choosing brands that take responsibility for their environmental impact, and packaging is one of the first things they notice. If you are a beauty brand looking to make the switch to more sustainable tube packaging, this guide breaks down your options. This is especially relevant for sunscreen and hand cream and lotion brands, where PCR and Bio-PE options are increasingly popular.
Why Sustainable Tube Packaging Matters
The beauty industry generates billions of units of plastic packaging every year. Tubes are one of the most commonly used formats for skincare, hair care, and personal care products. Choosing a more sustainable tube option reduces your brand’s environmental footprint, appeals to eco-conscious consumers, and in many markets, helps you stay ahead of tightening packaging regulations.
Your Sustainable Tube Packaging Options
1. PBL Tubes with EVOH Barrier
PBL (Plastic Barrier Laminate) tubes use an EVOH plastic barrier layer instead of aluminum foil, making them fully recyclable in standard plastic recycling streams. They offer good barrier protection against oxygen and moisture, making them suitable for a wide range of beauty and personal care formulas. If you currently use ABL tubes and want to transition to a more recyclable option, PBL is the most straightforward switch.
2. PCR Tubes (Post-Consumer Recycled Plastic)
PCR tubes are made using plastic that has already been used and recycled by consumers. By incorporating PCR content into your tube, you are reducing demand for virgin plastic and giving existing materials a second life. PCR tubes are available in varying percentages of recycled content, from 25% up to 100% PCR. They look and perform similarly to standard plastic tubes and are a great option for brands that want to make a visible sustainability commitment.
3. Bio-PE Tubes (Sugarcane-Derived Polyethylene)
Bio-PE tubes are made from polyethylene derived from sugarcane rather than fossil fuels. The sugarcane absorbs CO2 as it grows, giving Bio-PE a significantly lower carbon footprint compared to conventional plastic. Bio-PE tubes look, feel, and perform exactly like standard LDPE tubes, making them an easy drop-in replacement. They are also recyclable through standard plastic recycling streams.
4. Reduced Wall Thickness Tubes
One of the simplest ways to reduce material use is to specify a thinner tube wall. Advances in tube manufacturing mean that thinner walls no longer compromise structural integrity or barrier performance. Less material per tube adds up to significant reductions across a full production run.
How to Choose the Right Sustainable Option for Your Brand
The right sustainable tube depends on your formula, your target market, and your sustainability goals. Here are some questions to help you decide.
If recyclability is your top priority, PBL tubes or Bio-PE tubes are your best options. If reducing virgin plastic use matters most, look at PCR tubes. If you want to reduce your carbon footprint, Bio-PE is the strongest choice. If you are working with a sensitive formula that needs strong barrier protection, discuss EVOH barrier options with your supplier.
Communicating Your Sustainability Story
Choosing sustainable packaging is only half the work. Communicating it to your customers is equally important. Consider adding on-pack messaging such as “Made with recycled plastic”, “Bio-based packaging”, or “Recyclable tube” to your label. Many brands also include their packaging sustainability commitments on their website and social media to reinforce their values.
Work With a Supplier Who Understands Sustainability
Not all tube suppliers offer the full range of sustainable options. Top Tubes carries PBL, PCR, and Bio-PE tube options and can help you find the right fit for your formula, budget, and sustainability goals. We work directly with brands and contract manufacturers to make the transition to greener packaging as smooth as possible.
About Top Tubes
Top Tubes is a USA-based B2B supplier of custom ABL, PBL, and extruded plastic tube packaging serving the cosmetics, personal care, hair care, pharmaceutical, oral hygiene, and food industries. We offer low minimum order quantities, fast lead times, and a full range of decoration options. Contact us today to request samples or a quote.