You’ve found (or made) the perfect hair oil blend—but if you store it in the wrong container, it could lose its power before it ever hits your scalp.
Hair oil is best stored in dark glass bottles to preserve its quality, extend shelf life, and prevent contamination or chemical leaching from plastic.
Whether it’s a nourishing argan blend or a DIY herbal infusion, the bottle you choose directly affects how long the oil remains safe, stable, and effective.
Is it better to store hair oil in glass or plastic?
The short answer? Glass wins—especially for high-quality oils.
Glass is better than plastic for storing hair oil because it’s non-reactive, heat-resistant, and doesn’t leach chemicals over time.
Plastic may seem more convenient or cost-effective, but many hair oils contain essential oils or active ingredients that break down plastic—especially if the product is exposed to light or stored for extended periods.
Glass vs. Plastic: Hair Oil Storage
| Feature | Glass Bottle (Amber/Cobalt) | Plastic Bottle (HDPE/PET) |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Resistance | Excellent | Moderate (may degrade over time) |
| Light Protection | Amber blocks 90%+ UV rays | Usually poor unless tinted |
| Temperature Tolerance | High (no warping) | Low (may soften, release toxins) |
| Reusability | Recyclable and refillable | Limited reuse, less durable |
| Brand Perception | Premium, eco-conscious | Mass-market or budget |
At PauPack, we supply amber and cobalt glass bottles for hair care formulations, with pump caps, droppers, or disc tops that match your oil’s viscosity and brand style.
Can I store hair oil in a plastic bottle?
You can—but only in specific situations.
Hair oil can be stored in plastic bottles for short-term or low-risk applications, especially if the oil is diluted and the plastic is HDPE or PET grade.
For example, if you're shipping samples, working with lightweight travel sets, or using carrier-only oils like coconut or almond oil, plastic may be acceptable temporarily. However, avoid storing oils with essential oils in plastic for long periods.
Safe Use Guidelines for Plastic
-
Choose HDPE or PET, not PVC or LDPE
-
Store in cool, shaded areas
-
Avoid direct exposure to sunlight or heat
-
Monitor shelf life closely
At PauPack, we help haircare brands design packaging that balances cost-efficiency and quality, offering glass for flagship SKUs and plastic for minis, testers, or refill packs.
Should you put oil in glass or plastic?
Think of oil like food—would you eat olive oil stored in soft plastic for a year?
Oils should be stored in glass whenever possible, especially if they contain essential oils or antioxidants, which are sensitive to light, air, and temperature.
Plastic can be suitable for temporary or mass distribution use—but for any formulation meant to retain high performance over time, glass is the industry standard.
When to Use Each
| Use Case | Best Bottle Type | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Daily use hair oil | Amber glass bottle | UV protection, reusability |
| Retail packaging | Glass (premium) or PET (budget) | Brand alignment + shelf appeal |
| Sample/tester bottles | Small PET plastic | Lightweight, cost-efficient |
| Essential oil blends | Amber glass dropper | Prevents oxidation |
At PauPack, we offer low-MOQ glass bottle options tailored for haircare use—equipped with pump caps, anti-leak liners, and custom packaging to match your formula's shelf presence.
How should hair oil be stored?
Even the best bottle can’t save a poorly stored product.
Hair oil should be stored in a tightly sealed bottle, away from direct sunlight, heat, and humidity—ideally in a cool cabinet or drawer.
Exposure to air and light degrades oil quality, while high heat can accelerate spoilage or cause packaging warping—especially in plastic containers.
Hair Oil Storage Tips
| Condition | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Light | Use dark amber glass, store in darkness |
| Temperature | Room temp or slightly cooler (15–25°C) |
| Humidity | Store in dry areas, away from bathrooms |
| Handling | Close cap tightly after each use |
| Shelf Life | Label with manufacture/open date |
For DTC and wholesale haircare brands, PauPack offers fully customized oil kits that include protective secondary boxes and printed usage/storage guidelines—so your customers know exactly how to keep your product fresh and effective.
Conclusion
Hair oils are sensitive formulations—and storing them in the right bottle makes all the difference. Glass is best for longevity and quality, while plastic may suit short-term or budget use. Whatever you choose, the packaging should protect, preserve, and reflect the care that went into the formula inside.
