German applicators specialist Geka has come out with what it says is the first post-consumer recycled fiber for mascara brushes. At Cosmoprof Bologna last week, the supplier also revealed a new decoration technique on the back of increased demand for sustainable decoration options.
Geka’s new recycled fiber for mascara brushes uses a filament made of up to 65% PCR content. Said to be the first PCR fiber mascara brush on the market, the food-grade and "vegan" brush can be made of PCR PET or PCR PBT. Different brush shapes have been developed using the fiber: natureLASH, with its pointed tip for retouching and lash definition; the curved and concave ecoWONDER to curl and lengthen; greenLOVER to help separate the lashes thanks to its SEPA chisel-shaped fibers, and ecoLASH, a twisted wire brush. The brushes can be combined with 100% PCR PP caps and 100% PCR PET bottles. As for the price point, Geka tells Luxe Packaging Insight that the mascara brushes are “more or less on the same level” as that of standard options.
Also at Cosmoprof, Geka unveiled a new decoration option developed in response to demand for greener decoration options. Dubbed Shadow Printing, the patented process uses heat to create surface effects. Playing with glossy and matte finishes, it enables 360° decoration without adding any printing ink or foil. It can be used to partially change the surface, adding matte structure, line patterns and a haptic feel, says the supplier. All thermoset and recycled plastics can be decorated via Shadow Printing and the technique can be combined with screenprinting and hot stamping.
Geka created the Garden of Life collection to showcase the Shadow Printing technique. The range features new brushes and applicators, including Glaze Taste, a non-flocked applicator for skincare and color cosmetics. Said to offer soft application and even dosage, it can be wiped clean after use. Also new is Mini Blender, which is designed for lip products and facial make-up. It features a formula reservoir, making it particularly suitable for lip contouring.
