Discover How To Choose Empathetic Cosmetic Packaging

According to the latest statistics, 16% of the world population live with some form of significant disability which impacts their quality of life. That’s 1.3 billion people and the number is only growing due to noncommunicable diseases like cancer and diabetes. 

From a business perspective, that means it does make sense to ensure that your products suit the requirements of this audience. 

If you are selling products like makeup, skin cream, lipstick, or moisturiser, you need to ensure that your cosmetic packaging fits with an empathetic design.

How do you do this?

Research Your Audience 

First, it’s important to ensure that you are researching your target audience. Find out as much as possible about who they are and what they are searching for from your business. It’s possible that an accessible packaging design may immediately resolve issues that customers already have with your products. 

Easy To Open Lids 

If you are selling cosmetic products, it’s understandable to want to ensure that lids provide a tight seal. 

However, there is a certain balancing act here. While it’s important to avoid any spills or similar issues, if the package is too difficult to open it will deter customers and may result in poor reviews. 

Ultimately, a high quality packaging product is key. High quality packaging will open easily and provide a close seal.  

Texture 

Texture does matter when it comes to accessibility. Your first thought may be to include an element like braille into your design. However, while it is often viewed as a common choice for blind individuals, only 1% of the visually impaired population are able to read it. That said, it is still possible to use texture as an accessibility feature. For instance, many cosmetic companies use raised symbols and shapes to convey key information to blind users. 

Texture also plays into whether you are creating a complete package that is ergonomically friendly. Think about whether the material is pleasant to touch or could cause sensory issues for some users with conditions like ASD (autism spectrum disorder). 

Intuitive Design 

Finally, focus on creating an intuitive design. It’s not enough to choose or create packaging that is easy to open. Customers should immediately know how to open your products simply by looking at it. Don’t sacrifice practicality in the pursuit of innovation. 

As you can see, there are various factors that will determine whether your cosmetics packaging is accessible. 

A study in 2024 has revealed the discrepancy between the recognition of empathetic design value in theory and its use in practice. Research suggests that commercial designers tend to limit its use while research-oriented teams tend to integrate this design element on a holistic level. 

By joining the latter group, you can tap into a whole new audience base and ensure your products are accessible to all. 

At Tinware Direct, we have a fantastic range of cosmetic packaging specifically designed to be user-friendly and highly accessible. This includes our unique push-up base cardboard tubes. Customers can simply push on the base to reveal more of any item stored inside. 

Alternatively, you can explore our bespoke packaging service. Create the perfect packaging for any product, complete with innovative accessibility features.