In-Mold Labeling (IML) vs. Pressure Sensitive (PS) Labels

Elevate the Everyday: Why It’s Time to Rethink Pressure Sensitive Labels

At Canopy Beauty Packaging, we believe packaging should be as intentional as the formula it holds. It’s more than just a vessel. It’s your first impression, your visual identity, and a key part of how your customer experiences your brand. Yet many beauty brands still rely on pressure sensitive (PS) labels that weren’t designed to meet today’s standards for luxury, durability, or impact.

It’s time to consider in-mold labeling (IML).

Why Pressure Sensitive Labels Are No Longer Enough

PS labels may feel like the default, but for brands looking to stand out, they’re far from ideal. They come with limitations that quietly erode the quality of the brand that you’ve worked so hard to build.

• Edges peel. Surfaces bubble. Designs fade.
• They require an additional labeling process, which adds labor costs, time, and increases scrap.
• Moisture and handling can compromise the look and feel, especially in bathroom, and shower settings.
• Sticker labels aren’t integrated into the packaging, which compromises both quality and appearance. Instead of enhancing the design, they sit on top of it and diminish the premium experience your brand deserves.

In-Mold Labeling Performs

In-mold labeling fuses your label into the package itself during the molding process. The result is a single, seamless, mono-material finish that performs and presents beautifully from start to finish.

Here’s what makes IML the upgrade your packaging deserves:

1. Design That’s Built In, Not Added On

IML fuses the label into the surface of the package at the time of molding, creating a seamless, high-performance, mono-material finish with no peeling, bubbling, or fading. This process enables a range of premium effects, including high-gloss, matte, and textured finishes. The result is consistent alignment, photo-quality detail, and a refined, tactile experience that elevates every touchpoint.

2. A More Powerful Shelf Presence

With IML, your design isn’t limited by label shape or edge constraints. It covers more surface area with precision, creating a bolder and more memorable visual impact. For brands in categories like haircare or men’s grooming, where jars and closures are often merchandised forward, IML offers full billboard branding that connects instantly.

3. Streamlined, Scalable, and Made to Perform

IML streamlines production, reduces lead times, and removes added labor costs associated with applying PS labels. You get consistent results, fewer production steps, and a faster path from concept to shelf. IML also stands up to moisture, wear, and repeated use, helping your product look its best for longer.

4. Mono-Material for a Better End of Life

Both Canopy’s jars and caps, along with our IML labels, are made from 100% polypropylene (PP). This mono-material construction enhances recyclability and aligns with circular design principles by eliminating the need for material separation. The result is not only a cleaner aesthetic, but also a cleaner, more responsible footprint.

5. Interactive Packaging Experience

IML can integrate scannable elements such as QR codes or invisible watermarks directly into the label design without disrupting the visual aesthetic. This allows for connected experiences including tutorials, product traceability, and loyalty rewards. It offers a modern approach to building deeper engagement and extending your brand beyond the shelf.