Inner lacquer is the formulation-compatibility gate
Sunscreen, retinol and acidic actives attack the inner aluminium surface. Epoxy-phenolic is the standard barrier; brands needing BPA-free epoxy alternatives have fewer than 8 qualified partners.
§ KEY TAKEAWAYS
- 01Spec internal lacquer for formulation compatibility
- 02Latex barrier strips needed for high-water-activity products
- 03Lateral offset printing supports up to 8 colours + UV
- 04MOQ floor 15k tubes; sweet spot 50k+
§ GLOSSARY
Technical jargon, acronyms and scientific terms used in this file — decoded.
- Collapsible tube
- Aluminium tube that crumples as product is dispensed; no air ingress, ideal for oxidation-prone actives.
- Internal lacquer
- Polymer coating on tube interior that prevents direct contact between aluminium and product.
- Epoxy-phenolic
- Industry-standard inner-lacquer chemistry; effective barrier, contains BPA precursors.
- Lateral offset printing
- High-quality printing process for cylindrical containers; supports fine detail and many colours.
- Latex barrier
- Strip of rubber latex inserted at tube neck to prevent water and air ingress.

