Packages and closures for packaging

Airless packaging in practice: One detail you shouldn't overlook

In cosmetic packaging, not every structural element is visible at first glance, yet many of them have a direct impact on how the entire system works. A good example is the small opening, or in some cases two openings, located at the bottom of an airless package. To the end user, it may look like an insignificant detail. For the packaging manufacturer and the cosmetic brand, however, it is a critical element that ensures the mechanism functions correctly.


How does airless packaging work?

Airless packaging is a precise dispensing system in which individual components must work together in a strictly defined way. A disruption in the operation of even one of them may affect the proper functioning of the entire mechanism.

The operating principle of airless packaging differs from that of a traditional closure with a dip tube. In conventional systems, the product is drawn from the bottom of the container through a tube, while air gradually enters the bottle. Airless packaging most commonly uses a piston mechanism: each time the pump is pressed, the piston moves upwards, pushing the product out.

This solution limits the formula’s contact with air, supports hygienic application and helps protect ingredients that are sensitive to oxidation. This is particularly important for creams, serums, emulsions and products containing active ingredients.


The air vent: a small element that enables the entire mechanism to move

The small opening at the bottom of an airless package serves as an air vent. Its purpose is to equalise the pressure in the space beneath the piston. When the pump dispenses the product, the piston must move upwards. For this movement to occur smoothly, air must be able to enter the space beneath the piston.

It is not a manufacturing defect, damage or an accidental feature. It is part of the structure that enables the piston to operate correctly. As long as the opening remains unobstructed, the system can dispense the product gradually and consistently. If it becomes blocked, the packaging no longer has the conditions required to function properly.


How can you avoid a mistake that may negatively affect the consumer experience?

One of the common mistakes made during product implementation is covering the air vent with a label, an information sticker, protective film or a decorative element. The problem may occur particularly when the bottom of the packaging is treated as an additional area for an ingredients list, batch number, code, legal information or graphic element.

This should be avoided in the case of airless packaging with an air vent at the bottom. Covering the opening may disrupt the movement of the piston, cause incorrect dispensing, create difficulties during the first use or completely stop the product from being dispensed, even though the formula is still present inside the packaging.

For the consumer, the result is clear: the packaging appears defective, unattractive or of poor quality. For the brand, this means a risk of complaints and a negative user experience from the very first interaction with the product.


Why is placing a label on the bottom of airless packaging a risky solution?

The bottom of a package is often used as an area for additional information, but in the case of airless packaging, it must be designed with particular care. If a specific model has an air vent in its base, the opening must not be covered under any circumstances.

In practice, it is worth following a simple rule: mandatory information, ingredient lists, codes and marketing messages should not be placed in an area where they could restrict the airflow through a technical opening. A safer solution is to apply the label to the body of the package or use direct printing, where technically possible.

At Polpak Packaging, we offer airless packaging with decoration tailored to the brand’s design. Direct printing provides greater control over the final appearance of the packaging, helps maintain a consistent visual identity and reduces the risk of accidentally covering structural components.


Not only airless packaging – where else can this mistake occur?

A similar risk also applies to cosmetic jars equipped with a piston mechanism. The Polpak Packaging range includes, among others, models from the JB 1555 and JB 1411 series. This solution is increasingly chosen by brands looking for packaging that combines the convenience of a traditional jar with a more hygienic and controlled method of application.

At the same time, it is a highly attractive packaging format that presents the product effectively and can help it stand out on the retail shelf.

It is important to remember that in this type of packaging, the piston must also have sufficient space to operate correctly. If technical components are accidentally blocked, the mechanism may operate less smoothly, which can quickly affect the consumer’s experience of using the product.


Discover our full range of cosmetic packaging

Well-chosen packaging should not only present the product attractively but also function correctly in everyday use. At Polpak Packaging, we support our customers in selecting solutions that showcase the product effectively, make proper application easier and minimise the risk of problems during use.


Are you planning a new product launch?

Explore our FULL RANGE OF COSMETIC PACKAGING and contact us.
We will present the available options and prepare a quotation for the selected models.

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