The product label is often the first interaction a consumer has with a brand, meaning every detail can influence purchasing decisions. So, it’s crucial to ensure that every aspect of your label is carefully considered, from its design and messaging to the choice of material.
In designing your label, one of the most important decisions you’ll have to make is what material to use for your label substrate. Also known as facestock, the label substrate is the front side of the label where ink is applied. The right choice of label substrate not only enhances your product’s appeal and strengthens brand perception, but it also impacts the label’s durability.
This blog will discuss the two primary types of label materials: paper and film. By understanding their advantages, limitations, and best-use scenarios, you’ll be better equipped to choose the best label substrate for your product.
Paper labels
Paper is the most widely used label substrate, commonly found on a variety of consumer products, from canned goods to beauty items. Paper facestocks come in different types to suit varying aesthetic and functional needs:
- Uncoated paper – Ideal for handwritten labels, this untreated paper is easy to write on with pens or markers. Its affordability makes it an attractive option for projects with a strict budget. However, it’s also the least durable paper facestock type, so it’s better suited for short-term or indoor use.
- Coated paper – Treated with a gloss, semi-gloss, or matte finish, coated paper enhances the label’s appearance and provides moderate resistance to water, grease, and contaminants.
- Specialty paper – This category encompasses papers with distinctive properties or finishes that go beyond standard coated or uncoated options. Examples of these include metallic paper, textured paper, and recycled paper.
Pros of paper labels
Paper labels offer several benefits, including:
Customization
Paper labels come in a wide variety of colors, textures, and finishes, which enables you to create a unique look for your product. Whether you’re going for a rustic, vintage, or modern design, paper labels can help bring your vision to life.
Printability
The surface of paper labels is well-suited for high-quality printing, so you can be sure that intricate designs, logos, and text appear sharp and vibrant.
High-end aesthetic
Textured papers, such as linen or Estate paper, lend a premium, artisanal touch to products such as craft beverages, gourmet foods, and luxury candles.
Cons of paper labels
While paper labels offer many advantages, they do come with limitations:
Limited durability
Paper labels are susceptible to moisture, oil, and extreme temperatures, making them less suitable for products stored in harsh or outdoor environments.
Prone to fading and tearing
Prolonged exposure to sunlight or friction can cause paper labels to fade or tear, compromising their appearance and readability over time.
Film labels
Film labels, made from synthetic materials, are more durable and flexible than their paper counterparts. This makes them the perfect choice for products that require long-lasting labels or are exposed to moisture and harsh conditions, such as refrigerated or frozen foods, bath and body products, and industrial goods.
Here are some common types of film facestocks:
- Polypropylene (PP) – A cost-effective and versatile option, PP is widely used for a variety of products, including food and beverage, personal care, and household items.
- Polyethylene (PE) – Known for its flexibility, PE conforms to curved or irregularly shaped containers, making it perfect for squeezable bottles and tubes used for shampoos, lotions, and condiments.
- Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) – A highly durable and chemically resistant film, PET is ideal for products exposed to harsh conditions or chemical interactions, such as cleaning supplies and industrial products.
- Vinyl or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) – Strong, versatile, and offering excellent clarity and printability, PVC is suitable for demanding applications such as automotive products.
Pros of film labels
Film labels offer many benefits that make them popular among brands:
Durability
Highly resistant to water, extreme temperatures, oils, chemicals, tearing, and fading, film labels are built for heavy-duty applications. They perform well in moisture-rich environments, in outdoor settings, and on frequently handled products such as cleaning supplies, beverage bottles, or industrial equipment requiring long-term labeling.
Flexibility
Unlike paper, film labels conform easily to irregular shapes or squeezable containers, ensuring smooth application and a professional finish.
Customizability
Film labels provide versatile design options, including transparent labels for a sleek “no-label” look and frosted finishes for premium packaging. Glossy film options work well for showcasing products in transparent containers.
Cons of film labels
Film labels also have some drawbacks:
Higher cost
Film labels tend to be more expensive than paper labels, making them less suitable for businesses with tight budgets or short-term labeling needs.
Application challenges
Applying film labels by hand can be tricky due to their flexibility, increasing the likelihood of bubbling or misalignment. Specialized equipment may be needed for precise application.
Environmental impact
Film labels are often made from nonbiodegradable materials such as polypropylene or polyester, raising sustainability concerns. While eco-friendly film options exist, they are often more expensive and may not be accepted in all recycling programs.
| Read also: Different types of labels used in packaging |
Paper vs. film labels: Factors to consider when choosing label materials
Here are key considerations when deciding between paper and film labels:
- Container shape – Film labels are better suited for irregular or curved containers, while paper works well on flat or uncoated surfaces.
- Application surface – Match the appropriate material to the surface type. For instance, paper labels adhere well to cardboard containers, while film labels are ideal for plastic or flexible packaging.
- Environmental exposure – Products stored in moist or refrigerated conditions benefit from the durability of film labels. In contrast, paper labels may suffice for indoor, dry environments.
- Budget – Paper labels are more affordable, but they may require frequent replacements in demanding environments, potentially increasing long-term costs.
- Sustainability – If minimizing environmental impact is a goal, consider recycled paper or biodegradable film options.
Choosing the right label substrate can be difficult, but you don’t have to do it on your own. The product decorating experts at Pro-Motion Industries are here to assist you. Let our team guide you through the material selection process, ensuring your labels align with your brand, functionality, and environmental goals.
Reach out to us today at 856-809-0040 to discuss your project and explore the best options for your brand.