PCR Recycled Plastic in Cosmetic Packaging: Applications and Certification Explained

In recent years, sustainable packaging has become one of the most important trends in the cosmetics industry. From skincare jars to lotion bottles, more and more brands are embracing eco-friendly materials to reduce environmental impact while enhancing brand image. Among various sustainable materials, PCR (Post-Consumer Recycled) plastic has become a popular and responsible choice.

What Is PCR Plastic?

PCR (Post-Consumer Recycled) material refers to plastic that comes from consumer-used packaging waste, such as water bottles or shampoo containers. These plastics are collected, sorted, cleaned, and reprocessed into reusable raw materials.

It’s important to distinguish PCR from PIR (Post-Industrial Recycled) materials — while PIR comes from factory production scraps, PCR truly represents post-consumer recycling, carrying higher environmental value and brand recognition.

In cosmetic packaging, the most common PCR materials include:

PCR-PET: High transparency, ideal for bottles and jars.

PCR-PP / PCR-HDPE: Excellent for closures, pumps, and caps.

Depending on packaging needs, PCR can be added at different ratios (e.g., 30%, 50%, or even 100%), balancing visual quality, performance, and sustainability.

Why Brands Choose PCR Packaging

1️⃣ Environmental responsibility and brand image
Using PCR materials significantly reduces dependence on virgin plastic and helps lower carbon emissions. Many beauty brands now showcase the use of PCR packaging on their product labels — not just to meet regulations, but also to communicate their commitment to sustainability.

2️⃣ Cost-effective and widely available
Compared to bio-based materials or glass, PCR plastics are more cost-efficient and suitable for mass production. They can be processed with existing injection or blow molding machines, making them practical for both established and emerging cosmetic brands.

3️⃣ Compatible with multiple decoration processes
Modern PCR plastics can achieve excellent surface performance — suitable for silk screen printing, hot stamping, and spray coating, ensuring brands don’t have to compromise aesthetics for sustainability.

Common Certifications for PCR Packaging

To verify the authenticity and traceability of PCR materials, various international certifications are recognized by brands and regulators.

1️⃣ GRS (Global Recycled Standard)
The most widely accepted certification for recycled content. It covers not only the recycled percentage but also environmental, social, and chemical management throughout the supply chain.

2️⃣ SCS Recycled Content Certification
Common in North America and Europe, this certification focuses on the actual recycled content in the material and provides detailed traceability documentation.

3️⃣ ISO 14021 / EU Recycled Claim Standards
These define the labeling and communication rules for recycled materials, ensuring that environmental claims made by brands are transparent and verifiable.

Having verified PCR materials and proper documentation helps brands meet EU and US sustainability regulations and enhances consumer trust.

How PCR Materials Are Applied in Cosmetic Packaging

In our factory, we have developed a range of PCR-based PET and PP jars, bottles, and caps that maintain clarity and strength similar to virgin plastic. For example:

PCR-PET jars (30%–100%) for face creams and body scrubs;

PCR-HDPE bottles for cleansers and shampoos;

PCR-PP closures that perfectly match existing bottle designs.

Our engineers carefully adjust formulations to ensure consistent color tone, transparency, and compatibility with existing molds and decorations. Even when using 50% or more PCR, the final product still achieves a premium look and feel.

Challenges and Our Solutions

While PCR plastics are sustainable, they can sometimes bring challenges such as:

Slight color variation or haze;

Mechanical strength differences;

Sourcing stability and cost fluctuations.

To overcome these, we:
✅ Work closely with certified PCR material suppliers;
✅ Conduct color matching and injection tests before mass production;
✅ Perform adhesion and durability tests on each decorated surface.

This ensures that every packaging item not only meets eco standards but also looks and feels premium.