What are the benefits of using gel squeeze tubes?

According to a report by Smithers Pira, the global demand for squeeze tube packaging is expected to exceed $11 billion by 2026, driven largely by consumer preferences for portability, hygiene, and ease of use. Brands across personal care, pharmaceuticals, and food industries are adopting gel squeeze tubes not just for their convenience, but also for their marketing, environmental, and performance benefits. This article will explore the value of squeeze tubes from multiple perspectives, providing a comprehensive guide to their advantages.

Why Are Squeeze Tubes Gaining Popularity Over Traditional Packaging?

One key reason for the rise of squeeze tubes is their superior convenience. Unlike jars or bottles, squeeze tubes allow one-handed use and controlled dispensing, which enhances the user experience—especially for products like hand sanitizers, toothpaste, creams, gels, and haircare products.

Consumer surveys reveal that 68% of skincare users prefer tubes over jars because of hygiene and portability. This packaging reduces product waste by dispensing just the right amount and minimizes air contact, which can degrade product quality over time.

What Are the Environmental Benefits of Squeeze Tubes?

Many companies are shifting to recyclable mono-material squeeze tubes, such as HDPE or LDPE, to support sustainability goals. These tubes are easier to process in recycling streams compared to mixed-material laminates.

L'Oréal and Unilever have already committed to switching their tube packaging to 100% recyclable materials. Studies show that squeeze tubes using mono-PE generate approximately 30% fewer greenhouse gas emissions during production and disposal compared to traditional plastic or glass containers.

What Customization and Branding Options Do Squeeze Tubes Offer?

Squeeze tubes support a wide range of customization techniques, allowing brands to:

Choose from various diameters (16mm–50mm)

Apply full-color offset printing, screen printing, or digital printing

Add features like flip-top caps, nozzle tips, or tamper-evident seals

Select textures such as matte, gloss, soft-touch, or metallic finishes

These options make squeeze tubes a prime choice for luxury skincare brands, cosmeceuticals, and even organic food producers who want to enhance shelf appeal while maintaining functionality.

Are Squeeze Tubes Cost-Effective for Manufacturers?

Absolutely. Squeeze tubes are efficient to fill and seal on automated production lines. Compared to glass jars or rigid bottles, tubes reduce material weight, which can lower shipping and storage costs.

Based on a packaging cost breakdown:

A standard 50ml plastic squeeze tube may cost 20–30% less than an equivalent plastic jar

Brands can save significantly on freight due to the tubes' lightweight and compact structure

These savings become substantial when scaling production beyond 50,000 units.

What Should Brands Consider When Choosing a Squeeze Tube?

Before committing to a squeeze tube, brands should evaluate:

Viscosity of the product: Thicker gels need wider orifices; low-viscosity fluids may require valve closures to prevent leakage.

Shelf-life requirements: Oxygen-sensitive products should use barrier layers such as aluminum or EVOH.

Market positioning: High-end cosmetic lines may need soft-touch matte finishes, while pharmaceutical gels may require sterile, tamper-proof features.

Working with a reliable squeeze tube supplier ensures compatibility between material, product, and branding needs.

What Are the Most Common Industries Using Squeeze Tubes?

Squeeze tubes are widely used in:

Skincare and cosmetics: For moisturizers, gels, masks, and creams

Pharmaceuticals: For topical gels, ointments, and medicated creams

Food industry: For condiments like mustard, ketchup, honey, and sauce concentrates

Haircare: For styling gels, conditioners, and treatments

Each of these industries relies on the combination of hygienic dispensing, barrier protection, and portability offered by squeeze tubes.

Summary: Why Squeeze Tubes Are the Future of Gel Packaging

With innovations in sustainable materials, customizable design, and functional improvements, the squeeze tube continues to gain ground in both premium and mass-market segments. Its advantages in terms of safety, user experience, cost, and branding make it a smart choice for modern packaging challenges.

Whether you're a startup launching a new product or an established brand looking to upgrade your packaging, investing in high-quality squeeze tubes can yield tangible benefits for your customers and your bottom line.