Eco-Friendly Materials for Lip Balm Squeeze Tubes

When developing a new lip care product, choosing the right packaging is just as important as the formula inside. One of the most versatile and practical choices for lip balm products is the squeeze tube. These soft, compact tubes offer ease of use, hygiene, and portability — all features today’s consumers expect.

But what makes lip balm squeeze tubes even more appealing? They can also be eco-friendly — depending on the materials used.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the most common sustainable materials used for squeeze tubes, and what they mean for recyclability, performance, and your brand image.

1. PE (Polyethylene) Squeeze Tubes

PE, or polyethylene, is a commonly used plastic in cosmetic packaging. It’s lightweight, flexible, and highly durable, making it ideal for lip balm tubes that need to withstand daily use and travel.

• ♻️ Recyclability: Widely recyclable (especially HDPE and LDPE types), depending on local recycling facilities.
• 🌱 Benefits: Offers a clean, smooth finish, and excellent barrier protection for the product inside.
• 🧴 Use Case: Perfect for brands looking for reliable, low-cost packaging that still supports basic sustainability goals.

2. PCR (Post-Consumer Recycled) Plastic Tubes

PCR plastic is made from previously used and recycled plastic materials — think milk jugs or water bottles — that are reprocessed into new packaging.

• ♻️ Recyclability: Can be recycled again, depending on the percentage of PCR content and local recycling rules.
• 🌍 Benefits: Reduces virgin plastic use, lowers carbon footprint, and shows your commitment to circular packaging.
• 🧴 Use Case: Ideal for eco-conscious brands that want to minimize their environmental impact without compromising on quality.

3. Mono-material Squeeze Tubes

Mono-material tubes are made from a single type of plastic, such as 100% PE, instead of mixing layers of different materials (which makes recycling difficult).

• ♻️ Recyclability: Easier to recycle than multi-layer tubes, as they don’t need to be separated.
• 🌿 Benefits: Fully compatible with mechanical recycling streams, reducing landfill waste and simplifying sustainability claims.
• 🧴 Use Case: Great for brands pursuing clean-label packaging and meeting EU or U.S. packaging regulations.
  

4. LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene) Squeeze Tubes

LDPE is a soft, flexible plastic commonly used for lip balm and skincare squeeze tubes. Its elasticity makes it easy to squeeze, ideal for precise and controlled application. While not accepted in all recycling systems, mono-material LDPE tubes improve recyclability. Brands also use LDPE blended with PCR to reduce virgin plastic use.

• ♻️ Recyclability: Sometimes recyclable; more accepted when made from mono-material.
• 🌿 Benefits: Soft, squeezable, and compatible with PCR.
• 🧴 Use Case: Perfect for lip balms and travel-size skincare.

Why Choose Squeeze Tubes for Lip Balm?

• Hygienic Application: No need for fingers or sticks — just squeeze and apply.
• On-the-Go Convenience: Slim and lightweight, they’re ideal for pockets, purses, or travel kits.
• Precise Dispensing: Customers can control the amount they apply with a simple squeeze.

Final Thoughts

If you’re developing a lip balm product and looking for packaging that’s functional, lightweight, and better for the planet, squeeze tubes are a smart option. With materials like PE, PCR, and mono-material plastics, you don’t have to sacrifice sustainability for performance.

At The Packaging Company, we provide a wide range of empty squeeze tubes suitable for lip care and skincare — with customizable, sustainable options to match your brand’s goals.

Looking for lip balm squeeze tubes made from eco-friendly materials?

Contact us today to learn more about our recyclable and sustainable packaging options.