Matte vs. Glossy Packaging Finishes: Which One is Right for Your Brand?

When designing packaging for your consumer packaged goods (CPG) brand, the choice of finish can have a significant impact on how your product is perceived. Two of the most popular finishes—matte and glossy—each offer unique benefits that can influence a customer’s purchasing decision. But what are the differences between the two, and how do you know which one is best for your brand? Let’s explore both finishes, their best uses, and how you can even combine them for a premium look.

What is a Matte Finish?

A matte finish has a soft, muted look that diffuses light instead of reflecting it. This gives packaging a sophisticated and understated feel, making it perfect for brands that want to convey a natural, organic, or luxurious aesthetic.

Best Uses for a Matte Finish

• Luxury & Premium Products: High-end beauty, skincare, and fashion brands often use matte finishes to create a refined, elegant appearance.

• Eco-Friendly & Organic Brands: Matte finishes can give packaging a more natural look, making it ideal for sustainable and eco-conscious products.

• Minimalist Design: If your branding focuses on clean, modern aesthetics, a matte finish can enhance that effect.

What is a Glossy Finish?

A glossy finish has a shiny, reflective surface that enhances color vibrancy and creates a sleek, polished appearance. This finish makes packaging stand out on shelves and gives a more modern, high-energy feel.

Best Uses for a Glossy Finish

• Food & Beverage Packaging: The shiny finish helps make colors pop, drawing attention to delicious images and branding elements.

• Health & Beauty Products: Glossy finishes give skincare and cosmetic packaging a fresh, modern look that appeals to consumers.

• Children’s Products & Toys: Bright and playful packaging benefits from a glossy finish that enhances visual appeal and fun factor.

What Packaging Materials Can Have Matte or Glossy Finishes?

Both matte and glossy finishes can be applied to a wide range of packaging materials, including:

• Paperboard & Cardboard: Used in folding cartons, rigid boxes, and labels.

• Plastic Packaging: Bottles, jars, and pouches often come in both matte and glossy options.

• Flexible Packaging: Pouches, wrappers, and laminated films can incorporate either finish to align with branding needs.

Combining Matte and Glossy Finishes for a Unique Effect

For brands that want the best of both worlds, spot UV coating allows for a combination of matte and glossy effects in the same design.

How the Process Works:

• A matte laminate or coating is applied to the entire package.

• Select areas, such as logos, text, or specific design elements, receive a high-gloss UV coating.

• This contrast creates a tactile and visual impact, making key details stand out.

Best Uses for Matte & Glossy Combinations

• Premium Branding: Luxury brands often highlight logos or typography in glossy while keeping the background matte.

• Textured Packaging: Spot UV can create a raised effect, enhancing the unboxing experience.

• High-Contrast Designs: Combining finishes can emphasize certain details and elevate the overall look.

Choosing the Right Finish for Your Brand

The choice between matte and glossy finishes depends on your product, target audience, and brand identity. If you want a sleek, eye-catching look, glossy might be best. If you prefer a refined, sophisticated touch, matte is the way to go. And if you want to make a statement, combining both can give your packaging a dynamic and high-end feel.

Let Us Bring Your Packaging Vision to Life

At our packaging procurement and brand design agency, we specialize in helping startups create packaging that not only looks great but also aligns with their brand strategy. Whether you need matte, glossy, or a combination of both, we can source the best materials and finishes to ensure a premium result.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can elevate your packaging with world-class manufacturers and expert design solutions.

Thanks for reading,

Jack Pounce

Owner of Drop-Ship Packaging