From protecting the product to informing consumers of product benefits to marketing a brand’s values, the right packaging has the power to attract and retain customers. These are the tried-and-true features of hair care packaging that brands and consumers have come to expect.

Today’s consumers and brands want more. They seek features that align with their values and enhance their experience when using a product. How can you identify those features? Look at current industry trends.

Industry Trends in Hair Care Packaging

Staying ahead of industry trends can help your brand anticipate and adapt to market changes, identify new opportunities, and align your messaging to the values that are most important to your audience.

Current trends in the hair care packaging industry suggest your packaging needs to align with sustainability messaging and incorporate smart packaging for brand and consumer protection. Here’s why:

Recyclable Materials

Many hair care products come in single-use plastic packaging. For packaging that is recyclable, nearly 38 percent of consumers in one survey said they’re uncertain how to correctly dispose of it.

Hair care packaging brands that are increasingly using recyclable plastic and other materials to reduce environmental impact also need to find ways to effectively guide consumers to recycle the packaging after use.

The Downside of Tamper-Evident Packaging

Although tamper-evident packaging can help show tampering has occurred, it isn’t able to prevent tampering in the first place, putting brand identity, safety, and revenue at risk.

Sustainability Messaging

Gone are the days when sustainability messaging and commitments were simple perks. According to NIQ’s 2023 CPG Sustainability Report, 92 percent of shoppers consider sustainability to be an important factor when choosing a brand.

Packaging plays a crucial role in communicating a brand's commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Design Elements

Design elements, including the shape, color, and texture of a product’s packaging, have the potential to attract consumers. Many brands have embraced a minimalist, clean design, and some have incorporated unique, asymmetrical shapes to stand out on the shelves. Other current popular design elements include:

• Ergonomic designs that consider the shape of hands to ensure packaging is handled effectively
• Sophisticated designs that include embossing or intricate design patterns and high-quality materials to create a luxurious feel

Brands are also using color theory to influence consumer perceptions. Pastels are often used to create a sense of calmness, and bold colors evoke energy.

Labeling Standards for Consumer Safety and Trust

Packaging continues to undergo its own digital transformation. A large number of subtle technologies have been implemented to help with tracking and safety and to provide information about the brand and product. A few examples include:

• QR codes that provide access to product information, usage tips, and promotional content when scanned
• Digital watermarks that help brands track their products throughout the supply chain journey
• Augmented reality that adds layers of information and entertainment with the use of smartphones

Smart Packaging

As consumers become more aware of how certain products and materials can impact their health, brands have made strides to be transparent with lists of ingredients to build trust and create safer products.

A Hair Packaging Solution That Meets Brand and Consumer Needs

The AeroFlexx Pak—our sustainable, lightweight, and flexible package that acts like a rigid bottle—meets brand and consumer needs with artwork customization, convenience features, and anti-counterfeiting measures. With these features, brands and consumers gain access to:

• Shelf differentiation
• A delightful dispensing experience
• Self-sealing tops
• Tear tabs for easy opening
• Soft exterior to avoid breakage if dropped
• One-handed operation
• Smart packaging that protects the brand and product

Learn more about how you can make a difference. Contact us now.