Flexible tubes are one of the most versatile packaging formats across the personal care, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, food and industrial sectors. Their ability to protect sensitive formulations, provide controlled dispensing and deliver a premium consumer experience in a lightweight package makes them a popular choice for brands seeking functional packaging solutions.
Today's tube technologies range from easy-to-recycle mono-material and one-piece solutions to highly engineered barrier structures designed to preserve product integrity throughout the supply chain and consumer use.
Plastic Squeeze Tubes
Typically manufactured from polyethylene (PE), flexible plastic tubes are among the most widely used tube formats in the beauty and personal care markets. They provide excellent flexibility, durability and decoration possibilities, making them ideal for creams, gels, lotions, cleansers and hair care products as their soft-wall construction allows consumers to dispense the product easily.
Plastic squeeze tubes can also be paired with pumps for controlled dispensing, or with special applicators such as rollerballs that allow the user to gently apply the product through a massaging action, or sponges that allow the product to be blended into the skin.
Laminate Tubes
Laminated tubes combine multiple material layers to deliver enhanced barrier performance to formulations that require extra protection. Available as aluminium barrier laminate (ABL) or plastic barrier laminate (PBL) structures, these tubes are commonly used for toothpaste, topical pharmaceuticals, oral care products and sensitive cosmetic formulations. The barrier layers help protect products from oxygen, moisture, light and contaminants, extending shelf life and maintaining formulation efficacy. PBL tubes are particularly valued for their aesthetic appearance and flexibility, while ABL tubes provide superior protection for highly sensitive products.
Aluminium Tubes
Aluminium tubes continue to play an important role in pharmaceutical, medical, industrial and specialist cosmetic applications. Their ability to create an almost complete barrier against light, air and moisture makes them particularly suitable for formulations containing active ingredients, volatile compounds or oxygen-sensitive materials. In addition, aluminium tubes collapse as product is dispensed, preventing air from re-entering the pack and helping preserve formulation stability throughout use. This feature is especially beneficial for ointments, adhesives, paints and specialist skincare treatments.
Co-extruded barrier tubes represent a growing segment for premium cosmetics, dermatological products and active formulations. Manufactured using multiple layers of polymers and advanced barrier resins, these tubes offer a balance between product protection, squeezability and attractive shelf presence. They are frequently selected for serums, anti-ageing treatments, sun care products and other formulations where ingredient performance must be maintained over extended periods. The combination of barrier properties and premium decoration capabilities allows brands to reinforce product quality perceptions at the point of sale.
The choice of applicator can significantly enhance both consumer convenience and formulation performance. Precision nozzle caps are commonly used for adhesives, pharmaceuticals and targeted skincare products where controlled dosing is critical. Long-tip applicators enable accurate application to difficult-to-reach areas, while narrow orifice designs help reduce contamination and over-dispensing. For higher-viscosity products, larger dispensing openings improve product flow and ensure a smoother user experience without requiring excessive force.
Roller-ball, sponge-tip and brush applicators are increasingly being integrated with flexible tubes to create differentiated dispensing experiences. Roller-ball systems are frequently used for eye care products, topical treatments and cosmetic formulations, providing both product application and a massage effect. Sponge-tip dispensers support even distribution of liquid and cream formulations while reducing direct hand contact. Brush applicators are popular for hair colourants, lip care products and specialist skincare products, enabling precise application while enhancing perceived product value and ease of use.
Airless tube systems represent one of the most advanced developments in flexible packaging. By limiting air exposure during dispensing, these solutions offer exceptional protection for formulations containing natural ingredients, antioxidants, probiotics and active cosmetic compounds. Combined with premium pumps, metered-dose dispensers or specialist applicators, airless tubes can improve dosing accuracy, reduce product waste and enhance consumer satisfaction. As brands continue to seek packaging that combines protection, sustainability, convenience and differentiation, flexible tubes remain a highly adaptable format capable of meeting the evolving requirements of both manufacturers and consumers across a wide range of global markets.