Makeup packaging in the UK has seen significant changes over the past 10 years, moving from simple designs to more innovative solutions. In the late 2000s and early 2010s, most cosmetics were packaged in cardboard boxes, plastic pots, or tubes. Lipsticks and lip glosses came in basic tubes or pots while eyeshadows, blushes, and concealers were typically found in compact palettes or round tins. Foundation bottles and jars were pretty standard as well.
Labels tended to be simplistic with just the brand name and product details printed plainly. While functionality was the main focus, makeup package design wasn’t a big ing factor yet. Things started shifting in the mid-2010s as beauty brands put more emphasis on standing out visually. Elegant metallic finishes, decorative pressed patterns, and colorful graphics became prevalent. Transparent windows allowing product views also grew in popularity.
United Kingdom Makeup Packaging : Sustainable And Luxury Materials
In the last few years, the rise of clean beauty has put sustainable materials at the forefront of packaging innovation in the UK. Bioplastics crafted from sugar cane or bamboo are now commonly used for cosmetic containers. Brands also employ post-consumer recycled plastics and recycled aluminum in their packaging. Refillable systems have gained traction as consumers look for zero-waste options.
Luxury brands have simultaneously elevated makeup presentations with opulent packaging styles. Premium packaging materials like heavy-gauge metal, wood, and hand-painted designs command higher price points. Complex bespoke compacts exhibiting fine craftsmanship signal high-end prestige. Velvety pouches, faux leather cosmetic bags, and decorative shopping boxes further up the luxurious perception.
United Kingdom Makeup Packaging : Growth Of Customization
Customization has developed into a major packaging trend, allowing makeup lovers versatility and self-expression. Modular magnetic palettes let customers curate their own color stories. Refill pans and single shadows offer flexibility and the chance to rebuild kits seasonally. Beauty subscribers can now customize monthly box contents based on their preferences.
Brands give consumers control over product configurations too. Consumers can mix and match different shades of foundations, concealers, and custom lip products on retailers’ websites. Packaging is often personalized with engraved nameplates or customized messaging. The personalization boom encourages customer loyalty through a sense of ownership over unique creations.
Innovative Formatting
To capture attention in an oversaturated, brands implement innovative physical formats that stand out on shelves. Bento box-style stackable palettes and magnetic stackables present eyeshadows in novel organized rows. Foldout and accordion designs maximize space internally. Dual-chamber compacts house multiple formulas or functions together efficiently.
Some companies implement fun special-edition packaging with playable music compacts or light-up mirrored cases. Temporary tattoos, 3D-printed compacts, and novelty-shaped containers bring a playful element. Luxury brands focus on novel high-concept ideas like transforming cosmetic bags or palettes doubling as jewelry boxes.
Digital And Interactive Features
While tangible packaging remains crucial for in-store shelf impact, digitally integrated solutions enhance the at-home makeup experience. Compatible palettes pair with companion apps featuring product tutorials, application tips, and customized digital looks to recreate. Touchscreens on compacts provide on-the-go product information.
Some brands introduce augmented reality for virtually “trying on” shades and looks through device cameras before purchasing. Connected compacts with built-in sensors and Bluetooth offer usage statistics, product lifespan tracking, automatic reorders, and targeted loyalty rewards. The convergence of physical packaging and integrated digital features allows for elevated consumer engagement.
Dominant Packaging Trends Going Forward
Sustainability will continue shaping the future of UK makeup ing as customers put more weight behind eco-friendly offerings. Customization too grants autonomy that remains in high demand post-2020. Luxury items will further elevate the self-care experience for high-end consumers. Novel interpretations breathing new life into formats will set brands apart amid abundant options.
While digital enhancements augment physical containers, there’s no replacement for captivating real-world impressions on shelves. Innovative yet functional presentations marrying sustainability, luxury, customization, and tech-savviness will define upcoming packaging trends moving the UK beauty forward. Memorably designed exteriors attracting socially-savvy Gen Z and younger Millennial audiences will drive the next phase of evolution.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
About Author - Ravina Pandya
Ravina Pandya,a content writer, has a strong foothold in the market research industry. She specializes in writing well-researched articles from different industries, including food and beverages, information and technology, healthcare, chemicals and materials, etc. With an MBA in E-commerce, she has expertise in SEO-optimized content that resonates with industry professionals. LinkedIn Profile