When designing premium product packaging, many brands choose matte finishes to create a high-end appearance. However, matte labels and soft touch lamination are two different finishing solutions with different visual and tactile effects.
Understanding the difference can help you choose the right option for cosmetics, supplements, food, and premium products.
What Are Matte Labels?
Matte labels use a matte surface finish that reduces light reflection and creates a smooth, non-glossy appearance.

Advantages of Matte Labels:
- Elegant and professional appearance
- Reduces glare under lighting
- Provides a clean and natural look
- Suitable for detailed printing
Common applications:
- Cosmetic labels
- Skincare products
- Supplement bottles
- Premium food packaging
What Is Soft Touch Lamination?
Soft touch lamination is a special film coating applied over the printed label surface. It creates a smooth and soft texture similar to velvet.

Advantages of Soft Touch Lamination:
- Premium soft feeling
- More luxurious appearance
- Adds protection against scratches
- Enhances product experience
Common applications:
- Luxury cosmetics
- Perfume labels
- High-end skincare packaging
- Premium gift products
Matte Labels vs Soft Touch Lamination
| Feature |
Matte Labels |
Soft Touch Lamination |
| Surface |
Smooth matte finish |
Velvet-like soft texture |
| Appearance |
Elegant and simple |
Luxury and premium |
| Touch Feeling |
Normal smooth surface |
Soft and comfortable |
| Protection |
Basic protection |
Better scratch resistance |
| Cost |
More economical |
Higher cost |
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose matte labels if you need:
- A clean and professional appearance
- Cost-effective premium packaging
- A simple modern design
Choose soft touch lamination if you want:
- A luxury product experience
- A unique tactile effect
- Higher-end packaging appearance
At Jinke, we provide different label finishing solutions including matte lamination, soft touch lamination, hot stamping, embossing, and spot UV to help brands create distinctive packaging.
FAQ
Q1: Are matte labels waterproof?
It depends on the label material. Film labels with matte lamination usually provide better water resistance than paper labels.
Q2: Is soft touch lamination more expensive than matte labels?
Yes, soft touch lamination usually costs more because it requires an additional special film finishing process.
Q3: Can soft touch lamination be used with hot stamping?
Yes, soft touch lamination can be combined with hot stamping to create premium packaging effects.
Q4: Which is better for cosmetic labels?
Both can be used. Matte labels are suitable for clean designs, while soft touch lamination is preferred for luxury cosmetic products.