How to design a wooden lipstick case that boosts brand experience

According to Allied Market Research, the global lipstick market was valued at $9.5 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a steady CAGR of 5.1%, reaching $15.6 billion by 2033.

This growth is driven not only by formulas and shades, but also by innovation in packaging.

A report by Business Research Insights states that the growing demand for premium and luxury lipsticks is creating a parallel need for high-quality packaging. Consumers now expect more than just good colour payoff; they also look for packaging that feels elegant and exclusive and that aligns with the luxury experience.

This shift makes packaging a true strategic asset. A wooden lipstick case conveys quality and tactile richness, as well as a visible commitment to sustainability. In the following sections, we will explore how to design such a case that balances aesthetics, ergonomics and eco-conscious innovation.

The psychology behind lipstick packaging

Packaging is not neutral; it speaks before the product does. Imagine two lipsticks placed side by side. One has a plain, unremarkable case, while the other features a distinctive design with refined details. Which one captures your attention first?

Most consumers are drawn to the option that feels more memorable and meaningful. A striking lipstick case provides:

• Perceived value, creating the sense that the product is crafted with care and is worth the investment;
• It is a symbol of status: packaging that reflects exclusivity, elegance or innovation can elevate the consumer's experience.

How to design a wooden lipstick case

Designing a lipstick case means creating an object that reflects a brand’s identity while elevating the consumer experience. For luxury beauty brands, achieving this balance requires focus on three core aspects: form, function, and material.

• Form: geometry should align with the brand’s positioning. Sleek, minimalist shapes work well for contemporary lines, while faceted or sculptural designs convey boldness and artistry;
• Function: ergonomics are essential. A lipstick case must feel comfortable in the hand, open and close with precision and deliver the right balance of weight and stability;
• Material: the choice of material defines not only the look but also the values expressed through the packaging. Wood introduces warmth, authenticity and sustainability to the beauty ritual.

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Form: shaping identity with precision

The form of a lipstick is the first promise it makes. Even before it is touched, the silhouette, edges and transitions of the case set the mood and communicate the brand’s position. 

When designing the shape of a wooden lipstick case, brands should consider a few guiding principles:

• Proportions: refined dimensions, slightly elongated profiles and balanced shoulders create an impression of elegance and modernity;
• Edges and radii: crisp chamfers suggest precision and authority, while softer curves express comfort and intimacy;
• Stability and usability: a flat base ensures the case stands tall on a dressing table or countertop, while discreet touch zones make the case comfortable to hold.

Function: ergonomics as an experience

A lipstick case should not only look beautiful, but also work flawlessly with every use. A smooth twist, a reassuring click or precise weight distribution can transform an ordinary product into a premium one.

When designing the functionality of a wooden lipstick case, a few key aspects cannot be overlooked:

• Grip and handling: the case must feel secure and natural in the hand, with surfaces shaped for effortless use;
• The closure system should offer consistency and a distinctive tactile or acoustic signature, whether friction-, magnetic- or twist-based;
• Weight and balance: the distribution of mass creates an impression of substance without compromising ease of use.

Material: communicating values through choice

The material selected for a lipstick case instantly communicates what the brand represents: authenticity, exclusivity or sustainability.

When choosing the right material, your brand can explore various options:

• FSC®-certified woods such as beech, ash and walnut bring character and credibility to a product, each with its own unique grain and tone;
• Innovative composites such as mBlack™ introduce new aesthetics, from deep matte surfaces to tactile cork granules, all while adhering to sustainable principles;
• Finishes and treatments like oil, stain, varnish or lacquer further refine the message, ranging from raw authenticity to high-gloss prestige.

Case study: LA FRENCH COMPANY 

One of the most representative case studies from mPackting, the Minelli division specialised in beauty packaging, is the Cheeky Lipstick Anti-Crush wooden case developed for LA FRENCH COMPANY.

The project was created for a specific product launch, highlighting the brand’s commitment to innovation in both design and sustainability. 

The case was custom-designed with WoodPin™ technology, using a four-pin system that guarantees optimal grip on the lipstick tube, preventing accidental slipping while ensuring ease of use. 

To strengthen brand identity, mBlack™ plaques, a bio-based and biodegradable composite, were incorporated as distinctive elements, adding contrast in colour and texture. The result is a lipstick case that blends technical reliability, premium aesthetics and ecological commitment, perfectly reflecting the brand’s playful yet purposeful positioning.

Turning a wooden lipstick case into a brand signature

At Minelli Group, we believe that a wooden lipstick case is a statement of identity, quality and responsibility. Through our dedicated beauty packaging division, mPackting, we combine certified materials, precision engineering and bespoke finishes to help brands create cosmetic packaging that elevates both product and perception.

If you are ready to explore how wooden lipstick cases could benefit your brand, contact us today and let's design your next iconic product together.