How To Get The Best Results From Peel and Reveal Labels

focus-Jun-24-2024-02-27-31-8986-PM Peel and reveal labels are an innovative solution for many types of packaging, offering multiple layers of information within the same footprint as a standard label. They are particularly useful for products that require extensive information to be communicated to consumers, such as lists of ingredients or safety instructions.

By choosing peel and reveal labels, businesses can convey critical information without the need for multiple labels, preserving the aesthetic integrity of the product and reducing demand on resources, such as ink, paper, and adhesive.

To achieve the best results from peel and reveal label print runs for your customers, several factors need to be considered which, in this article, we’ll explain.

Choose the right printing method

Flexo & Digital printing are both highly recommended for peel and reveal label applications as they offer several advantages for production.

Label size: Overall label sizes can be reduced to fit the product and still provide a large amount of information to the consumer. Often this information is a mandatory legal requirement.
Precision: Flexo provides a high-speed, high-quality method of producing these multi-layer labels. Digital printing does not require printing plates and allows for high-resolution printing, ensuring that even the smallest text and intricate designs are clear and legible. Clarity is especially important on products that require safety information to be shared with consumers, such as medications.
Customisation: Digital printing is ideal for short runs and variable data printing, allowing each label to be unique without driving up costs. Where multiple product variations are sold, the labels can reflect the differences without creating excess inventory. However most Digital presses are not configured for Peel & Reveal labels, so a dedicated finishing line may be required.
Speed and efficiency: Flexo is without doubt king for large scale production and requires little modification to the Press to produce what is a complex product printing on both face & adhesive layers. If the label is to contain variable information then a digital printing solution is going to be required, which may be part a Hybrid Flexo/Digital equipment set up.

Select appropriate materials

The choice of substrate is critical for peel and reveal labels. The material must be durable enough to withstand multiple peelings while maintaining its strength and integrity. When selecting materials for your peel and reveal labels, consider using:

Synthetic papers: Tear-resistant and extremely durable, making them ideal for peel and reveal applications.
Vinyl and polypropylene: Robust and flexible, ensuring that the labels can be peeled and resealed multiple times without damage or loss of print quality.
Adhesives: Adhesives specifically designed for peel and reseal applications ensure the individual layers of the label remain securely in place yet are easy to peel when needed.

Design the labels with the user in mind

Like all printing applications, effective design is essential for peel and reveal labels to ensure that consumers can read the print easily, even after multiple uses. Each layer of the label should have a clear and distinct layout to avoid confusion or ambiguity; consider the needs of the target consumer, for example if they are likely to experience difficulty reading very small text. Picture3-1

Ensure there is a logical flow of information from one layer to the next and provide visual clues or instructions to show users how to peel the label, as this will prevent accidental tearing and ensure consumers realise the label has multiple sides. Colour should be consistent across multiple batches to reinforce your brand’s presence and messaging, which is where digital printing excels.

Consider application techniques

The correct application of peel and reveal labels is crucial if they are to function well. Misaligned labels can be difficult to peel and may become easily damaged, while consistent pressure should be applied to ensure that each layer adheres strongly and smoothly. It is well-worth conducting peel tests to ensure that each layer peels away smoothly and reattaches securely without compromising the label’s appearance or functionality.