Different types of cosmetics containers include tubes, bottles, and jars. In addition, many different types of cosmetics are also packaged in pans that are then stored in cosmetic palettes. There are also variations on these basic types of cosmetics containers. The choice of which type of container to use varies by manufacturer, and many users of skin care and cosmetics often have their own preferences as well. Some cosmetics experts have criticized the use of certain types of cosmetics containers by arguing that they fail to protect the integrity of the products they contain.
Tubes are a common container for many different cosmetics and skin-care items. A tube may be a squeeze tube, which means it has a soft body that the user must squeeze to force product out of the tip, or a rigid tube, which has hard sides and whose contents must be drawn out by using an applicator wand or though the use of a twist base. Common types of cosmetics and skin care packed into squeeze tubes include lip gloss, moisturizers, and highlighters. Other cosmetics that may be packed into rigid tubes include mascara, lipstick, and eyeliner. Among cosmetics containers, tubes have the distinct advantage of providing a significant amount of protection for the product within, as their narrow openings result in minimal air exposure.
Cosmetics such as foundations may also be stored in bottles. Bottles may be used when the manufacturer wants to make it easy for a user to pour out the product for use. Bottles, like tubes, do provide some protection against contamination, although the bottle opening is typically much larger than that of the tube. There is also a greater risk of the product spilling from the bottle if the bottle is knocked over.
Many different types of powdered cosmetics as well as thick creams may be sold in pans or jars. Pans are typically shallow containers made from metal into which eye shadows, blushes, and lip colors are pressed. As the entire surface of the cosmetic is exposed to the air, these pans must be contained in a palette that has a lid or cover to protect against contamination. Jars are also used for storing loose powders, skin-care creams, and lip glosses. While jar packaging can make it easy to access very thick products, their wide mouth makes the product vulnerable to contamination and can compromise the effectiveness of some popular cosmetic ingredients, such as antioxidants.