Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
GDK WEBZINE Vol.1 organised eco-friendly packaging into three directions, under the theme “New Green Trend”:
| Direction | Approach | GDK proposal |
|---|---|---|
| Reduce | Containers that use less plastic | Paper-PE blend tube (Light Sun Serum) |
| Reuse | Refill structures that keep the original container in use | Paper refill pouch (Musk Cream Body Wash) |
| Recycle | Containers and packaging from recycled materials; soy-ink printing; FSC-certified paper cartons | Proposed per project |
This reflects conscious beauty: consumers who look at the whole life of a product — ingredients, production, packaging and distribution — and choose products that consider the environment. Read the full summary of K-beauty packaging trends.
Paper tube cosmetic packaging (paper-PE blend)
A tube made by mixing paper and PE that uses less plastic than a conventional tube. GDK proposed it with the Light Sun Serum.
Paper refill pouch
Consumers buy the main container once, then refill only the contents from a paper pouch and reuse the original bottle. Proposed with the Musk Cream Body Wash.
Biodegradable mask kit (Patent No. 10-2390469)
GDK developed and patented a mask kit packed in biodegradable packaging material. Sheet mask manufacturing.
Self-care applicator containers
Containers that add a self-care function.
With growing interest in slow ageing, led by the MZ generation, skincare that combines massage tools — gua sha, rollers and massage balls — lets consumers apply and massage at once without touching the product. GDK WEBZINE described this as “Beyond Self-care, Self-cure.”
- Massage-ball applicator – the serum is dispensed by pressing the ball, for hygienic use and eye-area care. Paired with the Phyto Peptide Eye Serum.
- Silicone massage head – small holes in silicone nubs let the tonic flow while massaging the scalp. Paired with the Caffeine Scalp Tonic.
Because the formula is developed for the applicator (for example a water serum that rolls on easily, or a serum tonic that does not run), the product works as intended.
Packaging as self-expression
For Gen Z and Gen Alpha, cosmetics have become items that express personality and taste. Keyring cosmetics — such as a lip balm in a keyring case hung on a bag — and shaped packaging like chocolate-shaped hand cream are growing. GDK WEBZINE Vol.1 introduced examples such as a keyring dial-type airtight container with glow-in-the-dark lines that is wearable on a bag while protecting the formula from contamination.
