Different Types of Glass:
What to Take into Account When Selecting
When choosing the right packaging for your product, it’s essential to understand how different types of glass can impact product preservation and aesthetics. Each type of glass has unique properties that affect how it interacts with light, which in turn can influence the freshness and potency of your products. This is where glass types differ—each has its own transmission curve, which shows how much light it allows to pass through at different wavelengths.
Understanding the Transmission Curve
The transmission curve illustrates how different types of glass block or transmit various wavelengths of light. Wavelengths in the UV range (200–400nm) are particularly harmful to organic products, leading to degradation and loss of potency.
Glasses such as flint (clear glass) allow most of the light to pass through, while others, such as amber glass, block a significant portion of UV light, offering enhanced protection. The transmission curve helps us visualise which glass offers the best protection depending on the product inside.
Flint Glass
Flint glass, also known as clear glass, allows almost all light to pass through, making it a great choice for products where visibility is key. It showcases the natural colour and texture of the contents, making it an attractive option for brands that want to highlight the beauty or purity of their product. While it does not offer UV protection, it works well for non-light-sensitive products such as certain oils, beverages, and decorative items. For products that prioritise aesthetic appeal and transparency, flint glass provides an elegant solution that enhances shelf presence and engages customers visually.
Amber Glass
Amber glass is widely recognised for its UV-blocking properties, particularly in the 300–500nm range. This makes it ideal for protecting light-sensitive products such as essential oils, herbal extracts, and vitamins. This type of glass is commonly used in the pharmaceutical industry due to its protection and compliance with production standards. The deep, rich colour not only provides a classic and elegant look but also offers natural protection against light degradation, ensuring your product maintains its potency over time. For brands prioritising both protection and aesthetic appeal, amber glass is a perfect choice.
Frosted Glass
Frosted glass offers a sophisticated, matte finish that adds an air of luxury and exclusivity to flint or amber product packaging. In addition to its elegant appearance, frosted glass also helps to diffuse light, offering moderate protection by scattering harmful rays and reducing direct exposure. For brands looking to elevate their packaging with a premium feel, frosted glass is the ideal choice, blending aesthetics with functional light diffusion. This type of glass is particularly popular in the beauty, wellness, and cosmetics industries, where presentation is key to creating a sense of indulgence and high-quality craftsmanship.
Sprayed Glass
Sprayed glass refers to flint (clear) glass that has been coated with a specific colour to achieve desired properties and aesthetics. This option allows brands to customise their packaging while providing varying levels of light protection depending on the type of coating used.
Amber Brown:
Often used in the cosmetic industry, Amber Brown glass combines effective light shielding (to a certain extent) with a visually appealing look that suits a range of beauty and wellness products. This color is slightly darker than standard Amber Glass, providing a more distinctive appearance.
Have More Questions?
If you have any questions or need further assistance, contact us—we're here to help you find the best packaging solution for your product.