ABS plastic (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene copolymer) is widely used in cosmetic packaging due to its excellent comprehensive properties. Below is an analysis of its core applications and characteristics:
 I. Primary Applications
1. Bottle Caps and Pump Heads  
    Its high hardness and dimensional stability make it suitable for threaded caps, press pumps, and other components requiring precise structures.  
2. Cream Jars and Makeup Containers  
    Commonly used for foundation compacts, eyeshadow palettes, and other packaging due to its ease of dyeing and glossy surface, which enhances premium aesthetics.  
3. ToolBased Packaging  
    Components like mascara wands and lipstick tubes benefit from its mechanical strength, ensuring durability with repeated use.  
4. Secondary Processing Components  
    Combined with other materials (e.g., glass or PET bottles) as decorative brackets or functional accessories.  
 II. Core Properties and Advantages
1. Strong Mechanical Performance  
    Impact resistance (contributed by butadiene) suits shockproof needs during transport, while hardness (from acrylonitrile) prevents scratches.  
2. Versatile Surface Treatment  
    Can be electroplated, spraypainted, or UVcoated to achieve metallic or matte finishes, elevating the product’s perceived value.  
3. Chemical Resistance  
    Resists alcohols and oils (common in skincare) but should avoid strong solvents (e.g., acetone).  
4. Ease of Processing  
    Highefficiency injection molding allows for complex structures (e.g., multilayer snap designs), reducing production costs.  
5. Lightweight and CostEffective  
    Low density (~1.041.06 g/cm³) makes it lighter than glass, with costs lower than engineering plastics like PC.  
  III. Limitations and Considerations
 Poor Weather Resistance: Prolonged UV exposure may cause yellowing, requiring UV stabilizers or opaque packaging.  
 Permeability: Unsuitable for highly volatile contents (e.g., perfumes) requiring airtight sealing.  
 Environmental Pressure: Nonbiodegradable; recycling systems (e.g., chemical recycling) are needed to comply with regulations.  
 IV. Comparison with Other Materials
| Property             | ABS        | PP (Polypropylene) | Glass      |
|||||
| Impact Resistance    | ★★★★☆      | ★★★☆☆             | ★☆☆☆☆       |
| Surface Decoration   | ★★★★★      | ★★★☆☆             | ★★★★☆       |
| Heat Resistance      | ★★☆☆☆ (80°C)| ★★★☆☆ (100°C)     | ★★★★★       |
| Recyclability          | ★★★☆☆      | ★★★★☆             | ★★★★★       |
 V. Industry Trends
 Modified ABS: Enhanced with additives like antimicrobial agents (e.g., silver ions) or improved heat resistance (heat deflection temperature up to 110°C+).  
 Sustainable Solutions: Blending with biobased materials (e.g., PLA) or developing chemical recycling to reduce carbon footprint.  
ABS remains a key material for small to medium cosmetic packaging, particularly in midtohighend markets where aesthetics and functionality are equally prioritized, thanks to its costperformance ratio and design flexibility.