Looking for Tube Packaging? Here’s How to Choose the Right One

When it comes to cosmetic, personal care, pharmaceutical or food products, the type of tube you use can make all the difference. Choosing the right tube isn’t just about appearance—it’s about functionality, product compatibility, shelf life, and branding.

At DGS, we specialize in two core types of Polyethylene (PE) tubes: Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) and Co-Extruded (COEX) tubes. Both are manufactured through an advanced extrusion process that create a seamless, joint-free tubes, giving your product a premium look and enhanced durability.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the differences and benefits of each tube types:

Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) Tubes:

LDPE tubes are two-layer tube, widely used across industries due to their versatile and practicality:

• Excellent Squeeze-ability: LDPE is known for its soft, flexible nature, making it ideal for products that require easy dispensing, such as creams, lotions, and gels.

• Cost-Effectiveness: LDPE tubes are a more affordable option compared to multi-layer alternatives, making them attractive for brands seeking for reliable packaging without a high upfront cost.

• Good Chemical Resistance: LDPE offers good resistance to a wide range of chemicals, ensuring product stability.

• Recyclability: LDPE is a widely recognized and recyclable plastic (categorized as Resin Identification Code #4), aligning with growing consumer demand for sustainable packaging options.

Best for: Every day personal care items such as facial cleansers, moisturizers, hand creams, shampoos, gels, body lotions, and other stable, non-sensitive formulations.

Co-Extruded (COEX) Tubes

COEX tubes are made by extruding multiple layers of different plastics simultaneously. A 5-layer COEX tube include a layer of EVOH (ethylene-vinyl alcohol), which offers advanced protection.

• Superior Barrier Protection: This is the primary benefit of COEX tubes. EVOH provides excellent protection against oxygen, moisture, and UV light. This is crucial for sensitive products like pharmaceuticals, active skincare ingredients, and certain food products that require a longer shelf life and protection from degradation.

• Extended Shelf Life: By effectively shielding the product from external elements, COEX tubes help maintain the efficacy, freshness, and scent of your formulations over time.

• Premium Look & Feel: Due to its layered construction, COEX tubes have a firmer tube body and allows for a wide range of finishes, contributing to a more premium experience and appearance.

Best for: product with SPF, sunscreens, serums, medicated creams, foundation, essential oils, whitening cosmetic, and products with active or natural ingredients that are prone to oxidation or spoilage. Also recommended for pharmaceuticals and formulations with special ingredients, alcohol, fragrances or other sensitive components.

When to Choose Which?

• Choose LDPE if: Your product is relatively stable, doesn't require extreme barrier protection. LDPE is perfect for everyday products where cost-efficiency and flexibility are key.

• Choose COEX if: Your product is sensitive to oxygen, light, or moisture, requires an extended shelf life, or contains active ingredients that need robust protection. Pharmaceuticals, high-end cosmetics, and certain food products are ideal candidates.

  
  

Looking for Other Tube Options?

We also offer:

• Plastic Barrier Laminate (PBL) Tubes– An all-plastic, multi-layer tube that incorporates an EVOH barrier layer. PBL offers excellent protection against oxygen and moisture.

• Aluminum Barrier Laminate (ABL) Tubes – A multi-layer tube featuring an internal aluminum foil layer, providing excellent barrier protection against light, oxygen, and moisture for sensitive products. ABL tubes are durable and maintain their compressed shape after squeezing, allowing for precise dispensing.

• Aluminum Tubes – A classic, mono-material metal tube offering ultimate, impenetrable barrier protection against light, air, and moisture; and is 100% recyclable. Like ABL tubes, aluminum tubes do not return to their original shape after squeezing.

• Post Consumer Recycled (PCR) Tubes - Made from recycled plastic, PCR tubes significantly reduce the demand for virgin plastics and help lower your product's environmental footprint, appealing directly to eco-conscious consumers.

  
  

📩 Get in touch to explore tube packaging options that work for you.