Annual OTC Package Design Gallery: Part 3

This year’s gallery featured many calming and minimalist aesthetics, signifying a consumer looking for relief at home and work—outside of the clinical setting. Part 3 features topicals, personal care, and skin care. 

Dr. Scholl’s Callous Removers

Pros

• Lightweight, uniquely shaped paperboard carton stands out on shelf without excess headspace; gloss highlights cushion image on front against matte background
• Instructions for use are very clear (albeit in small font) in three steps on back panel with images
• The cushions themselves feature Step 1 and Step 2 on the backing and top layer for ease of use

Notes

• While directions are numbered and clear, one may wonder why the disc wasn’t labeled as step #1
• Additionally, no disposal cues

Bayer AleveX Pain Relieving Lotion 

Pros

• Bottle is a unique shape—wide and shallow—for easy grip and squeezing
• Callout on front notes new ingredients for a segment that may be loyal to a given brand
• X imagery is consistent and alludes to fast action; directions are clear and make use of the entire back of the bottle

Notes

• End of life: Not specified

Quip toothpaste

Pros

• Both the tube and carton feature clear explanation of tube recycling instructions; bottom of carton notes 100% paper content and please recycle
• Minimal graphics on matte outer carton allow for tube image and uses per tube/3 month supply copy with “pea-sized dollop” portion illustration
• Symbols explain ingredient benefits; stand-up carton is oval shaped which stands out in a typically rectangular carton aisle

Notes

• Although both parts of the packaging are recyclable, consumers may miss the bottom panel message. Link near recycling instructions was not working as of press time

 

J&J Band-Aid Ourtone Bandages  

Pros

• Launched in 2021 after a foray in 2005, bandages add offerings to mutiracial tone bandages on the market
• Multiple sizes are clearly communicated with graphic on back panel
• How2Recycle symbol makes it easy to see which component (the box) is recyclable; copy in bandage-toned hue keeps consistency around the package

 

 

EVERY MAN JACK Hand Sanitizer 

Pros

• Black woodgrain pattern and forest green foil effects offer an elevated aesthetic
• Slim, sturdy, matte pocket-ready sanitizer is easy to grip and spray
• Drug facts on back panel are balanced with stand-out green symbols for recycling stream, cruelty-free product

 

Pacific Shaving Co. Nick Stick 

Pros

• Pithy quote scores points while right-sized blister fits rollerball against silver backing
• Back of card shows usage directions and easy-to-read warnings, while hang tab provides display options for retailers

Notes

• Presumably the “Please recycle” is referring to the paper and not the rollerball (blister contents unclear)

 

Perrigo ScarAway Scar Gel

Pros

• Carton’s side and back panel do a great job of using bullets, images, and bold lead-ins for easy comprehension
• Clear window allows consumer to see the tube
• Easy-flow applicator allows roll-on application of transparent silicone scar gel

Notes

• End of life: Carton is recyclable but consumer may miss symbol on bottom panel
• Connect with us but no handle; Carton is large, presumably to offer all the product info

Check out Parts 1 and 2

Part 1: Calm, wellness, and anti-anxiety products

Part 2: Cold and sleep medicine, and infant care