Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET): Properties and Cosmetic Packaging Applications

What Is Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)?

Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) is a widely used packaging material known for its transparency, flexibility and memory, meaning its ability to return towards its original shape after deformation. It also has good compatibility with most cosmetic ingredients.

Key Properties of PET

Transparency and Flexibility
PET can provide clear packaging while maintaining sufficient flexibility for everyday cosmetic use.

Durability
Its good durability makes PET particularly suitable for transparent shampoo and conditioner bottles. When dropped, the bottle can dent rather than crack, providing an advantage over some other transparent resins.

Colour and Appearance Options
Pigments can be added to PET to create coloured, transparent or translucent packaging. Titanium dioxide can produce completely white packaging, while mica-based pearlescent pigments can create a pearlescent appearance.

Light Protection
The addition of sunscreen to the resin can provide protection from light for the packaged product while maintaining packaging transparency.

Cosmetic Packaging Applications

PET is commonly used for:

• Shampoo and conditioner bottles
• Cosmetic bottles
• Cosmetic pots and containers
• Transparent packaging
• Coloured, translucent or opaque packaging

Its combination of transparency, durability and design flexibility makes PET a versatile material for cosmetic packaging.

Ingredient Information

Material: Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)
CAS: 25038-59-9
EINECS/EC: 607-507-1

References

Cosmetic Formulation Principles and Practice – Heather A.E. Benson, Michael S. Roberts, Vânia Rodrigues Leite-Silva, Kenneth A. Walters.