Plastic-Free Cosmetic Packaging Market Insights for 2034

Plastic-Free Cosmetic Packaging Market Outlook 2025–2034: From Kraft Paper to Smart Labelling Solutions

The plastic-free cosmetic packaging market is accelerating, with forecasts predicting hundreds of millions in revenue growth between 2025 and 2034, powering sustainable infrastructure globally. In 2025, Europe led the market, with Kraft paper and moisturizers topping material and cosmetic types. E-commerce dominated sales, while Asia Pacific, compostable materials, deodorant sticks, and Indie brands are set for strong growth through 2034.

Last Updated: 07 July 2025 Category: Packaging Products Insight Code: 5663 Format: PDF / PPT / Excel

The plastic-free cosmetic packaging market is booming, poised for a revenue surge into the hundreds of millions from 2025 to 2034, driving a revolution in sustainable transportation. The rising ecological awareness among consumers and government guidelines for packaging industries have influenced the demand for the plastic-free cosmetic packaging market. Paper-based materials are widely used in this sector due to customization and printing convenience. The Europe region is dominating in this market due to there strict government guidelines for eco-friendly packaging of the products.

Key Insights

  • Europe dominated the global market with the largest share in 2025.
  • Asia Pacific is expected to grow at a notable CAGR from 2025 to 2034.
  • By material type, the Kraft paper segment contributed the biggest revenue share of 28% in 2025.
  • By material type, the biodegradable and compostable materials segment is expected to expand at a significant CAGR between 2025 and 2034.
  • By product type, the serum bottles segment held 22% of the revenue share in 2025.
  • By product type, the deodorant sticks segment will be expanding at a significant CAGR between 2025 and 2034.
  • By cosmetic type, the moisturizers segment held the major revenue share of 30% in 2025.
  • By cosmetic type, the color cosmetics segment is projected to grow at a CAGR between 2025 and 2034.
  • By end-user brand type, the organic/natural brands segment contributed the biggest market share of 36% in 2025.
  • By end-user brand type, the Indie brands segment is expanding at a significant CAGR between 2025 and 2034.
  • By distribution channel, the e-commerce platforms segment contributed the biggest market share of 42% in 2025.
  • By distribution channel, the DTC brand websites segment will be expanding at a significant CAGR between 2025 and 2034.

Market Overview

The plastic-free cosmetic packaging market comprises packaging solutions used in the cosmetics industry that eliminate the use of conventional plastic materials. These solutions are designed with a focus on sustainability, biodegradability, compostability, and recyclability. Materials used in such packaging include paper, glass, metal, bamboo, wood, and biodegradable composites. The goal is to reduce plastic pollution, meet eco-conscious consumer demand, and comply with evolving regulatory frameworks.

  • Rising Demand for Compostable and Biodegradable Resources

The rising inclination towards compostable and biodegradable resources has influenced brands the adoption this packaging.

  • Demand for Mono-material and Minimalist Designs

Continuous increasing demand for packaging with minimal pattern and manufacturers with mono-material has enhanced the innovation in the plastic-free cosmetic packaging market.

  • Transparent and Smart Labelling

The rising integration of interactive packaging, which comprises carbon-footprint labels, QR codes, and NFC.

How Can AI Improve the Plastic-Free Cosmetic Packaging Market?

The incorporation of AI in the plastic-free cosmetic packaging market will majorly support the detection of materials utilized for the manufacturing of plastic-free packaging for cosmetic products. It enhances the reliability of the brands due to the production of enhanced quality packages. AI is useful for the supply chain distribution of the products and analyzing the demand for the products, which eliminates the excess production. It reduces human error and helps to supply error-free production of the packaging, which influences brands to adoption advanced technology.

Market Dynamics

Driver

Rising Consumer Appeal

The rising demand for cosmetic products has also raised the demand for innovation in its packaging to appeal to consumers, which drives the growth of the plastic-free cosmetic packaging market. With the increase in demand for personal care and skincare products packaged in environment-friendly containers, brands can attract a huge range of consumers by providing plastic-free packaging for the products. As governments announce stringent guidelines on single-use plastics and plastic waste, using plastic-free materials confirms that brands are compliant.

Restraint

High Expenses and Less Durable Products

Despite rising concern towards eco-friendly packaging of the products, high charges associated with these cosmetic products have hindered the growth of the plastic-free cosmetic packaging market. The lower durability of these plastic-free packaging has also limited the development of the market. The packaging is manufactured from corn starch, which requires large areas of land to grow and reproduce corn, for such reason hinders the widespread use of this sector.

Opportunity

Rising Concern for Reduction of Carbon Footprint

The growing awareness towards decreasing carbon footprints has raised exclusive opportunities in the plastic-free cosmetic packaging market. The environment-friendly packaging is naturally manufactured from recycled resources, meaning less energy is required, generating fully new packaging. Decreasing the amount of energy utilized to generate new packing also means fewer carbon emissions, resulting in your carbon footprint being smaller. Environment-friendly packaging is non-toxic and allergen-free as it is manufactured from natural resources. Using environment-friendly packaging means there are no worries about any harmful chemicals, which enhances the opportunities in this market.

Segmental Insights

Why Kraft Paper Segment Dominated the Plastic-Free Cosmetic Packaging Marketin 2025?

The Kraft Paper segment held a considerable share of the plastic-free cosmetic packaging market in 2025 due to its recyclability and biodegradability properties. The rising concern of customers for environment-friendly and sustainable packaging has boosted the demand for this sector. These Kraft papers are widely utilised and versatile in secondary and tertiary packaging, which comprises wrap-around labels, sachets, boxes, sleeves, and pouches.

The biodegradable and compostable materials segment is expected to grow at the fastest rate in the market during the forecast period of 2025 to 2034. This segment is growing due to rising supervisory pressure and sustainability efforts to eradicate single-use plastic. In this industry, the packaging which are biodegradable, like trays, jars, films, and bottles, is in high demand.

Why Serum Bottles Segment Dominated the Plastic-Free Cosmetic Packaging Market in 2025?

The serum bottles segment was dominant over the plastic-free cosmetic packaging market in 2025 due to the growing demand for beauty solutions that are sustainable. The metal serum bottles are in high demand as an alternative to plastic-free cosmetic packaging.

The deodorant sticks segment is expected to grow at the fastest rate in the market during the forecast period of 2025 to 2034. The recyclable aluminum containers are pushing the demand for this sector as recyclable packaging is a major concern among consumers.

Why the Moisturizers Segment Dominated the Plastic-Free Cosmetic Packaging Market in 2025?

The moisturizers segment held a considerable share of the plastic-free cosmetic packaging market in 2025 due to the rising trend of regular skincare routines. With the increasing number of customers looking for sustainable options, the demand for this segment is growing significantly.

The color cosmetics segment is expected to grow at the fastest rate in the market during the forecast period of 2025 to 2034. This sector is growing rapidly due to rising awareness about pollution caused by plastics. Brands are significantly accepting recyclable and refillable packaging, resolution helps this segment to grow consistently.

Why Organic/Natural Brands Segment Dominated the Plastic-Free Cosmetic Packaging Market in 2025?

The organic/natural brands segment held a considerable share of the plastic-free cosmetic packaging market in 2025 due to the growing awareness about the adverse effects of chemicals on skin. Reducing the harmful effects caused by the usage of chemical products has boosted the shift of consumers towards organic products.

The indie brands segment is expected to grow at the fastest rate in the market during the forecast period of 2025 to 2034. This segment is growing rapidly due to direct engagement of the consumers and ethical positioning. The indie brands are getting recognition on the basis of the sustainable packaging of their products.

Why E-Commerce Platforms Segment Dominated the Plastic-Free Cosmetic Packaging Market in 2025?

The e-commerce platforms segment held a considerable share of the plastic-free cosmetic packaging market in 2025 due to the growing trend for online ordering of several products. The availability of a huge variety of products has made it easy for consumers to get products of their desire in less time and without stepping out, and has also raised the demand for enhanced quality packaging.

The DTC brand websites segment is expected to grow at the fastest rate in the market during the forecast period of 2025 to 2034. The continuously evolving demand of consumers has influenced the growth of this sector rapidly. The website helps to gather all the required information regarding the product, which attracts a huge range of consumers.

Regional Insights

Strict Packaging Guidelines in Europe Promote Dominance

Europe held the largest share of the plastic-free cosmetic packaging market in 2025, due to the strict guidelines of the government towards the packaging industry. The increasing priority of brands available in countries like the U.K., Germany, France, Sweden, Denmark, and several other countries towards sustainable packaging of cosmetic products to build their image has boosted the development of this market. The regulatory framework of Europe, rising awareness among consumers, and continuous innovation are some of the major factors behind the development of this market.

Asia Pacific’s Demand for Sustainable Packaging Supports Growth

Asia Pacific is estimated to grow at the fastest rate in the plastic-free cosmetic packaging market during the forecast period. The rising demand of consumers for sustainable packaging of products has influenced the development of this market in countries like India, Japan, China, and several others. The continuous innovation and collaboration among major market players have raised the demand for this market.

Top Companies in the Plastic-Free Cosmetic Packaging Market

Plastic-Free Cosmetic Packaging Market Companies

Latest Announcements by Industry Leaders

  • In March 2025, Eastman's market manager for Cosmetic Packaging, Tara Cary, expressed, “FANCL needed a material that could check a lot of boxes for this new line. From durability and chemical resistance to aesthetics, Tritan addressed all those challenges. We love working with brands like FANCL, who are committed to making sustainable products without compromise.”(Source: Packaging Suppliers Global)

New Advancements in the Market

  • In March 2025, FANCL announced the launch of its skincare line, “toiro,” which features reusable packaging designed to support more sustainable beauty practices. (Source: Packaging Suppliers Global)
  • In June 2025, Shellworks launches fully home-compostable pipette dropper packaging. (Source: Premium Beauty News)

Plastic-Free Cosmetic Packaging Market Segments

By Material Type

  • Paper-Based
    • Kraft Paper
    • Corrugated Board
    • Molded Fiber
  • Glass
    • Amber Glass
    • Frosted Glass
    • Clear Glass
  • Metal
    • Aluminum
    • Tin
    • Steel
  • Wood and Bamboo
    • Bamboo
    • FSC-Certified Wood
  • Biodegradable and Compostable Materials
    • PLA (Polylactic Acid)
    • Bagasse
    • Mushroom Packaging

By Product Type

  • Bottles
    • Serum Bottles
    • Lotion Bottles
    • Toner Bottles
  • Jars
    • Cream Jars
    • Balm Jars
  • Tubes
    • Lip Balm Tubes
    • Toothpaste Tubes
  • Sticks
    • Deodorant Sticks
    • Lipstick Tubes
  • Boxes and Cartons
    • Folding Cartons
    • Rigid Boxes
  • Others
    • Droppers
    • Dispensers (non-plastic)
    • Refill Pods

By Cosmetic Type

  • Skin Care
    • Moisturizers
    • Serums
    • Cleansers
  • Hair Care
    • Shampoos
    • Conditioners
    • Hair Oils
  • Color Cosmetics
    • Lipsticks
    • Eye Shadows
    • Foundations
  • Fragrances
  • Oral Care
  • Men’s Grooming
  • Baby Care

By End-User Brand Type

  • Luxury Brands
  • Mass Market Brands
  • Organic/Natural Cosmetic Brands
  • Private Labels
  • Indie Brands

By Distribution Channel

  • Offline
    • Specialty Stores
    • Departmental Stores
    • Salons and Spas
  • Online
    • E-commerce Platforms
    • DTC (Direct-to-Consumer) Brand Websites

By Region

  • North America
  • Europe
  • Asia Pacific
  • Latin America
  • Middle East and Africa
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  • Insight Code: 5663
  • No. of Pages: 150
  • Format: PDF/PPT/Excel
  • Last Updated: 07 July 2025
  • Report Covered: [Revenue + Volume]
  • Historical Year: 2021-2023
  • Base Year: 2024
  • Estimated Years: 2025-2034

Meet the Team

Yogesh Kulkarni is an experienced Research Analyst specializing in the packaging sector, with a strong foundation in statistical analysis and market intelligence. He currently contributes his expertise to Towards Packaging.

Learn more about Yogesh Kulkarni

Aditi Shivarkar, with 14+ years in packaging market research, specializes in food, beverage, and eco-friendly packaging. She ensures accurate, actionable insights, driving Towards Packaging 's excellence in industry trends and sustainability.

Learn more about Aditi Shivarkar

Related Insights

FAQ's

The primary growth drivers include rising consumer demand for sustainable products, stringent government regulations on single-use plastics, and increasing brand responsibility toward eco-conscious packaging. Additionally, the rise of e-commerce and organic/natural cosmetic brands is pushing demand for innovative and compliant packaging solutions.

Kraft paper led the market in 2025 due to its cost-effectiveness and recyclability. However, biodegradable and compostable materials like PLA, bagasse, and mushroom-based packaging are projected to grow at the fastest pace, driven by regulatory mandates and consumer pressure for plastic alternatives.

Europe leads due to strict environmental packaging regulations, while Asia Pacific offers the highest growth potential due to its rising middle-class population, increasing consumer awareness, and ongoing innovation by regional players in countries like India, China, and Japan.

Segments such as biodegradable materials, deodorant sticks, color cosmetics, indie brands, and DTC brand websites are poised for significant growth. These areas reflect evolving consumer habits and brand strategies favoring refillable, reusable, and eco-packaged cosmetics.

AI is transforming this market by optimizing supply chain management, detecting sustainable materials, minimizing overproduction, and enhancing product customization. It ensures quality control and reduces human error, giving brands a competitive edge in delivering reliable, scalable, and sustainable packaging solutions.

High costs of raw materials, lower durability of alternative packaging, and limited scalability due to agricultural dependency (e.g., corn-based bioplastics) remain key barriers. These factors can slow mass adoption and increase product prices, especially for budget-conscious brands.

There’s a marked shift toward mono-material packaging, minimalist design, and smart labeling (e.g., QR codes and carbon-footprint labels). These features enhance recyclability and consumer transparency, appealing to environmentally aware buyers and regulators alike.

Strict bans and extended producer responsibility (EPR) laws, especially in Europe, are forcing brands to innovate or face penalties. Companies that preemptively align with such regulations gain market share and brand trust. Compliance is becoming a key differentiator among competitors.