Gloss VS Matte Lamination: Which Is the Best Choice?

  • Rating: 4.7/5
  • Posted On: August 4, 2022
  • Written by: Emenac Packaging Canada
  • Category: Blog
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When it comes to product packaging, selecting the type of lamination is an important step. Oftentimes, lamination is left undiscussed, as a result, leaving the product owners with poorly designed packages. 

Believe it or not… packaging boxes are your first impressions! So, from choosing the type of cardboard layer to designing graphics on boxes, and from setting the dimensions to selecting the right type of lamination, everything should be done with great concentration. 

In this blog, we’re going to go through the basic differences between the two types of laminations, i.e., gloss and matte lamination. Further, we’ll discuss which option can offer more benefits to your type of business… But first thing first, let’s understand what lamination basically is… 

Product Lamination: Adding a Protective Yet Luxurious Sheet to the Boxes:

Starting with the definition… Lamination is the process of adding an additional plastic film to the packaging boxes for ensuring their durability. Further, lamination gives a luxurious finish to the boxes that let their surfaces shine. It is usually applied on both sides and protects the packaging cases from damage, i.e., stains, tears, etc. Bonus point? Laminations “pop up” your packaging designs and help them to stand out even when placed alongside numerous other products.  

Sounds interesting? Both Gloss and matte lamination have their own potential to make an impact on the consumers. This is why deciding the type of lamination for your product is sometimes overwhelming. But, after understanding the prime differences between these two lamination options, you can easily pick the right one for you. 

So, let’s move on… 

What is Gloss Lamination?

If you want a super shiny finish, then it’s best to choose gloss lamination.  With this lamination, you can get a glass-like appearance for the packaging boxes that could strengthen the graphics and vibrancy on the packaging cases.  The light bounces back off glossy packaging boxes, making them more eye-catching. 

What is Matte Lamination?

Unlike gloss lamination, matte finishing is soft and reflects little or no light. Hence, the package becomes easier to read. Colors and graphics aren’t as vibrant as on gloss lamination. Matte laminations usually flatten the colors and produce a more muted finish. 

Which One is Best for Packaging Your Products? 

That depends upon your audience and, of course, the products you sell. For instance, if you’re selling attires to grannies or senior citizens, then you would want to use sophisticated matte lamination, that gives a feeling of softness when touched. Apart from that, matte lamination can also be used when you want to display your product boxes in direct light. This way, no pinchy glares would be produced, which in return would make the boxes easy to spot and read.

On the other hand, gloss lamination offers extra protection. So, if you want to protect your products from water drops, moisture, etc., then add a glossy finish to your products. Further, glossy laminations are usually cheaper as compared to matte coatings. In case you want to save money, then again… glossy lamination can help! 

Choosing the right type of lamination isn’t hard. All you need to do is learn the major differences between glossy and matte finish (as discussed above) and find the right custom packaging company with outstanding design skills. After that, you’re good to go!