What Is the Difference Between Gloss and Matte Lamination? Check Out Here!

When it comes to designing custom packaging, you might need to choose how to laminate the product using gloss or matte lamination. Perhaps it might seem like an easy decision for you to make. But without you realizing it, the option you make will influence the printing process of your product packaging. The reason is obvious; the decisions you make will influence all following printing results. So, what is the difference between gloss and matte lamination? Let’s take a closer look to see which option best suits your unique packaging needs.

What Is Laminated Packaging?

Yes, what is laminated packaging, by the way? Well, we can define lamination as the printing process that uses a clear plastic film glued to a printed surface. This will help to make the product stronger and more durable.
Usually, the lamination will be applied on both sides of the packaging. This way, it will form something like a protective shield around the packaging. This not only protects the product packaging from dirt and scratches. Better than that, it will also protect it from tears, dirt, moisture and other things that can completely ruin your product.
The lamination process also helps to make the color of your packaging design stand out. Thus, your product packaging will be more noticeable.

Gloss Vs Matte – The Difference Between the Two Techniques

Basically, lamination “polishes” your product packaging and makes it look more captivating. In the final packaging design, the lamination you choose should be compatible with the printed design and color.
Whether you create candle boxes or seasonal gift boxes, lamination always improves the look and feel of your product packaging. Even better, this technique also acts as a protective layer to withstand scratches and unexpected damage to the packaging design. For example, applying lamination to cardboard boxes can help you take advantage of these boxes. Know more about the benefits of using the boxes here!

Why Should You Use Custom Seasonal Gift Boxes

So, the first step you need to do to draw the customers’ attention is to choose between matte or gloss lamination. Let’s dive in then.

What Is Gloss Lamination?

This technique uses the light reflected off the surface, resulting in a glossy quality. This way, the effect you can expect will be vividness, better image contrast, and more color depth. This lamination technique will be suitable for pamphlets, perfume boxes, and book covers. Gloss lamination can polish the product packaging in a different way than matte lamination.
If your brand wants to convey a more brilliant and youthful feel, this lamination is an ideal choice. Why? Because it enhances and brightens the colors for a clearer and more detailed look.

What Is Matte Lamination?

The matte lamination reflects small light, leaving a very flat and raised appearance on the surface. This lamination is soft to the touch. Thus, making it a great option if you want to provide a more interactive experience through your packaging.
The matte laminated packaging can flatten the color. Additionally, this technique will reduce the color depth to make it look a little more subdued. What’s more, this lamination is famous in luxury packaging such as cosmetic boxes as it gives a modern look and feel.

Gloss Vs Matte Lamination – The Best Practices

Speaking of what is the difference between gloss and matte lamination, we should also know when we should use the technique.

You Should Use a Gloss Lamination in Case:

Suppose your product packaging is processed significantly. The gloss lamination provides an additional layer of protection against scratches and dirt. Eventually, it will be very easy to wipe clean your Printed Glossy Beverage Boxes. You will find various types of water-based coatings also used to resist fingerprints. So if this is an important requirement, also consider paint options during the packaging process.
Choosing this lamination means that you want the colors on your laminated packaging to stand out. In most cases, the gloss lamination is cheaper than matte. Thus, you will get the chance to save more budget.

You Should Use a Matte Lamination in Case:

You know that your product packaging will be exposed to direct sunlight. The matte lamination will make your packaging easier to read from a distance while avoiding severe glare.
The only drawback of matte lamination is that scratches can damage it from movement in particular cases. Choosing matte lamination means that you want your product to look professional and elegant. In this regard, you should consider using calm and subtle colors.

What Is the Difference Between Gloss and Matte Lamination?

It all completely depends on how you want your packaging to be!
To choose which one will suit your packaging, you need to think about how you want your product packaging to look and feel. Yes, the answer will always be “it depends on how you want customers to see your packaging.” Not only in terms of durability and product staging. More than that, the option also depends on the impression you want to provide to your target audience.
Thus, when it comes to choosing the right option between gloss and matte lamination, you should consider some essential things below.

What Appearance and Image Do You Want to Convey?

Yes, it all depends on the type of appearance you want to convey from your product packaging. The soft, rich and subdued look of the matte lamination might make some colors look dull or dark to pale. In fact, even some bright colors will not pop out of the packaging if you apply too much matte.
Another thing to note is that the more subdued effect on coloring certainly adds a touch of sophistication. Yet, at the same time, the matte lamination will soothe your packaging and conveys, it essentially “behaves calmly”.

Find the Right Color Combination That Speaks to Your Customers

When you choose gloss lamination for your Glossy Lotion Boxes, you will have the opportunity to create a bright centerpiece. This centerpiece will surely draw attention in a way that can be seen as crowded and flashy.
Of course, it completely relies on the color combination you choose, regardless of whether it is produced by digital printing or offset printing. Thus, experimenting with different color combinations and lamination styles will always be a good idea. Remember that you need to find and apply the right color combination that will speak to your target customers.
Eventually, the lamination process needs to balance the impression you want to create with the durability. Most importantly, you should focus on the “presence” you want your product packaging to have.
But at the heart of this is the customer experience, not the product packaging itself.
With more people shopping online than ever before, your laminated packaging must fulfil its dual obligations; to stand out and attract attention. It will be easy to think that you want “a glossy lamination for everything”. On the other hand, to create something that really catches their eyes, you also need to think about how you want your customers to feel when they first get or see your laminated packaging.
So, you need to answer some questions below:

• Do you want those customers to see your product packaging as an exclusive and professional one?
• Or do you want customers to see your product packaging as something trendy and exciting?

You should never forget that the unboxing experience for customers is just as important as getting the product itself. Many customers get their first impressions just by looking at the product packaging. Hence, make sure you know what kind of impression you want to deliver through your product packaging.

The Benefits of Choosing Laminated Packaging? Here They Are!

Laminated packaging offers many benefits to your brand, products, and of course, your customers. Let’s know the most promising benefits of choosing this packaging!

It Offers Flexibility

Laminated packaging is available in various designs, shapes, and sizes. Thus, allowing you to choose the best combination for your product and consumer needs.

It Provides Barrier

This packaging is a form of flexible packaging. Yet, laminated packaging is very elastic. The lamination process will protect your product from external influences. Even better, it ensures the freshness of your product inside. What’s more, the lamination process is not easily damaged and has a long life. This will provide your product a longer shelf life.

Laminated Packaging Is Lightweight and Portable

This packaging is lightweight and easy to carry. Thus, packing and shipping laminated packaging requires less time and effort. The best part is that this packaging also takes up less space.

Cost Savings

Both gloss and matte lamination are affordable compared to other types of finishing effects. In the end, you can make your product look more convincing and appealing while managing your budget. Well, doesn’t that sound great?

In Summary

So, what is the difference between gloss and matte lamination? Many. Considering the benefits you can get, the lamination process is worth trying!