Save Cosmetics Label Headache: Part 1

Name: BPI Labs
Telephone: +1

October 22, 2018

Introduction

Our customers are looking for a perfect product to package fit that broadcasts quality to the consumer. So if you’re intending to use labels on your personal care product with our automated labeling machinery, then there are a few things to keep in mind.

You’ll read the following in this article:

Part 1: How to avoid containers with complex curves in the labeling areas
Part 2: The varying types of labels we can apply to your containers
Part 2: How to choose label shapes that apply consistently and neatly
Part 2: Size limitations and getting assurances of success

Selecting Your Product’s Container

Where the label goes on your personal care product’s container and how that area is shaped is an important consideration when choosing containers. Many containers have something we call complex curves. Complex curves exist where concave or convex angles or planes intersect on the container. This is especially concerning when it happens in the labeling area of the container. An example of a container with complex curves in the labeling area is the deodorant bottle pictured to the left.

Picture Left: The deodorant bottle pictured has complex curves in the labeling area beneath the cap. Interestingly, there is a small area on the lower cap area that would work with a wrap-around label.

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Curves Converging Creates Complexity

A label likes to follow the direction of a curve as it is being applied by an automated labeling machine. When multiple curves meet on a container in the labeling area then the label must negotiate and compromise its continuity between the curves. This situation typically results in crooked, pinched, broken, non-applied, or wrinkled labels. The likelihood increases the sharper the angle, which means there are some scenarios where labels can be applied in areas where multiple curves meet.

Blurring the Lines

The container to the left has an hourglass design but it’s depth (base) is rectangular shaped. Consequently, this container has complex curves, but only on the sides and not on the front-facing area. This container would be an ideal candidate for a front-back label (discussed in the part 2), but not a wrap-around label. The front face is slightly curved, but labels don’t mind following a curve. They just don’t like trying to follow multiple curves. Testing your container with your label on an automated labeling machine is the best method for determining a likelihood for failure.

Conclusion

If you’re thinking to yourself, “So my container just needs a flat space (curved plane) for the label,” then you are not far from the mark. Whenever the plane of the label area is intersected with another curve (or plane), new complications tend to arise. But there are plenty of exceptions, and BPI Labs will check your label and container for a good fit.