What Coating Do I Need for My Labels? Inovar’s Label Coating Guide

There are many elements that go into creating the right label for your brand. From picking the proper material, to perfecting the design and informative content, to considering other packaging requirements and the environment your product will be stored and used in, there is a lot to consider. And choosing the appropriate Label coating is often just as important as getting the material and design right.

At Inovar Packaging Group we understand that you as a decision maker have much to think about when you’re releasing a product; that’s why our label specialists are here to guide you to the label material and coating that you need. Here are three important factors to take into consideration when you think about your label.

1. LOOK

While a label is a functional tool used to communicate essential product information, it also plays an important role in demonstrating your brand identity. Customers certainly look to your label to find ingredient facts and product details, but if your label is not aesthetically appealing, they are likely to ignore it in favor of something that catches their eye.

Design is, of course, the primary way to use your label to connect with customers, but the coating of that label has a huge impact of how your design is perceived. Gloss finishes can add an element of flashiness to your label, and if you’re using a metallic material, they can make the metallic elements even more vibrant. Matte finishes are increasingly popular in many industries, from supplements to health and beauty products. They can create a more natural feel to your label and suggest a more sophisticated vibe.

We also offer a large variety of specialty coating options, like selective gloss to highlight particular design elements, soft touch, and texturized varnishes to give your customers a unique tactile experience. Schedule an Innovation Meeting with us if you’d like to see our Innovation Book and discover all of our exciting label options.

2. ENVIRONMENT

Once you’ve decided on the look you want for your label, the coating option that is right for you is still heavily dependent on the ultimate environment your product will be used and stored in. Is it refrigerated or exposed to other temperature changes? What is the humidity going to be like? These are some of the questions our label specialists will help you answer, and they all play an important role in the coating option that will be appropriate for your label.

We have varnish and lamination options in both matte and gloss finishes. Generally speaking, products that are exposed to harsher environments require lamination, as it provides more protection for your label. While our team will worry about the technical specifications (like whether your label needs a polypropylene or polyethylene terephthalate lamination), it is important that you share details about the use and storage of your product with us so we can make sure we use the appropriate coating.

3. PRODUCT USE

It may seem obvious, but the way your product will be used also plays a key role in determining the coating that your label needs. For products that are handled often, we recommend using lamination because, as mentioned about, it is sturdier than varnish. Lamination is also our coating of choice for any product that comes in liquid form, from cleaning supplies to lotions to beverages—no one wants unseemly drips marring your amazing label design! Varnish finishes are great for products that are dry and will experience minimal handling.

It is also integral that you let us know if you plan on writing or printing any auxiliary information on your labels after we print them. Perhaps you’re a craft food and beverage brand who wants to write in batch numbers or a supplement company who needs to print expiration dates on your labels. Depending on the material, some labels can be printed on directly. Most, however, will need a specific coating to ensure the print doesn’t smudge.

So many factors go into creating the perfect label for your product. And while there is certainly a lot to think about, the team of Inovar Label Solutions Specialists is here to guide you every step of the way. Partnering with a company that has decades of experience and is dedicated to providing unparalleled customer service will help alleviate much of the stress of label creation. Want to see samples of the different coatings discussed here? Request a free sample packet today!