Virospack has launched what it calls the beauty market’s first-ever metal-tipped dropper. Jordi Salas, technical manager at the Spanish dropper specialist, discusses this new innovation and others in the pipeline.
What does this new dropper offer?
The Extra Function Dropper marks the first time that a veritable dropper is combined with metal; the PP pipette has a tear-drop-shaped metal tip. This isn’t just an aesthetic innovation; it’s also functional as the tip provides a cooling effect, while doubling as a massage tool for makeup, skincare and haircare applications. The tip is conceived for regular cosmetic droppers and push-button droppers.
You’re also developing a sustainable dropper?
Yes, the team has just started working on an eco-dropper that will be made of materials with the lowest environmental impact possible, and that will probably launch next year. We also just introduced two new plastic shell droppers. The production of plastic caps means that the shrinkage is visible because of the threads, which is not ideal for the luxury market, and is one reason why brands opt for metal shells. We’ve developed a plastic shell injected into a polished mold that has no visible shrinkage marks. It also doesn’t call for the use of glue in the plastic inner shell so it’s easier to recycle. We’re moving towards mono-materials, but the bulb remains problematic, as you need at least some rubber parts. This is something that we’re working on.
Virospack also launched two other novelties in 2019: The Ring Dropper and the Child-Resistant Dropper.
The Ring Dropper offers a new look for push-button droppers as well as a higher dosage. The traditional dosage of 0,3ml was doubled to 0,65ml; it also makes for a fluid and pleasing dispensing experience. This format allows for more customization as a regular push-button dropper features two visible parts, but in this case the three components can be individually decorated.
Was your child-resistant dropper designed for the CDB market?
We started working on what became the first tamper-proof cosmetics dropper in light of the burgeoning cannabis/movement in the US, but it is suited to any formula with active ingredients that call for a certain level of security. I believe the cannabis market will see vibrant growth and we’re positioning ourselves to respond to the demand, which is already apparent in the US market. Technically, the safety feature is in the adjustment between two components, which have to be moved simultaneously to release the formula.
What other new developments are in the pipeline?
The company has made major investments into new technologies and machinery to boost our capacity. In terms of finishing solutions, we’ve increased our metallization from one to three automatic lines (two high-vacuum and one sputtering) and in plastic injection we’ve doubled the number of machines to 12 over the last three years.
