Recognizing the need for a suitable alternative to acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) in the base plate of its compact, SUQQU, owned by Japanese beauty giant Kao, partnered with Eastman. Together, the two companies identified that Cristal One not only fulfilled SUQQU’s rigorous functional criteria but also maintained a luxury aesthetic. This recyclable resin helped SUQQU offer its consumers a sustainable alternative in its iconic compact.   

An End-of-Life Solution 

Eastman’s Cristal One portfolio provides an end-of-life solution for cosmetics brands. The specialty PET is recognized by both the Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) and RecyClass as being compatible with the resin identification code 1 (RIC1) stream, which means it can go directly into most municipal recycling systems.  

As global sustainability regulations continue to evolve, SUQQU says it has designed its luxury compact to align with the European Commission’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulations (PPWR) and is continuously working toward achieving full compliance.   

Cristal One enhances both the durability and aesthetics of cosmetics packaging. The copolyester demonstrates superior performance compared to other candidate materials, such as PET, particularly excelling in drop impact resistance after secondary processing.  

Meets Sustainable and Aesthetic Demands

“Consumers are increasingly expecting brands to deliver sustainable options for their beauty products but are unwilling to give up on the elegance and design aspects of the package,” said Tara Cary, Eastman marketing manager for cosmetic packaging. “By adopting materials like Cristal One, brands like SUQQU meet these aesthetic demands and also contribute to environmental responsibility.”  

Cristal One also meets the stringent requirements of SUQQU’s design and performance standards. It allows for perfect shape while providing a deep, glossy black finish that enhances the product’s luxury appeal. This could not be done with the ABS the brand previously used.   

“Consumers love that this product is beautiful, durable and reusable,” Cary said. “It allows them to do their part to contribute to the environment, and it’s also designed to look like a fashion accessory that’s so beautiful you just want to show it to everyone.”