Pressure-sensitive labels (PSLs), or self-adhesive labels, are among today’s most versatile labeling solutions. PSLs offer flexibility, ease of application, and high-quality presentation across industries like food and beverage, healthcare, beauty, and personal care.
At Quality Assured Label (QAL), we specialize in engineering high-performance PSLs that align with your product’s needs, container properties, and environmental conditions. From specialty printing to sustainable label solutions, QAL has the material expertise, service focus, press capabilities, and fast turnaround to help your product stand out on the shelf and perform under pressure.
What Is a Pressure-Sensitive Label
A pressure-sensitive label is a type of label that adheres to a surface when pressure is administered. No heat, water, or solvents are needed. PSLs are simple to apply—by machine or hand—and come in various finishes, shapes, and constructions.
Each PSL is made of three essential components:
- Face Stock – The printable surface (paper or film) displays your branding and regulatory information.
- Adhesive – This layer bonds the label to your product. Adhesives are selected based on surface type, storage conditions, and environmental exposure.
- Release Liner – A coated paper or film backing protects the adhesive until the label is applied.
Fun Fact: “Pressure-sensitive” and “self-adhesive” are often used interchangeably. Both describe labels that stick with the help of pressure—no activation required.
Choosing the Right PSL Materials
Selecting the right label construction ensures your product packaging is durable and visually striking. At QAL, we help brands navigate the ideal combination of face stock, adhesive, and release liner.
Face Stock Options
- Paper – Cost-effective and highly customizable with gloss, matte, and specialty textures.
- Films – Durable options like polypropylene and polyester, available in clear, white, or metalized (including holographic and specialty finishes).
Adhesive Types
- Permanent – For strong, lasting adhesion on most surfaces.
- Removable – Allows for clean removal without residue.
- Repositionable – Enables adjustment during application.
- Specialty Adhesives – For extreme conditions like freezer storage, curved containers, or high-humidity environments.
Release Liners
- Paper Liners – Widely used for general applications.
- PET Film Liners – More durable; great for high-speed automatic labeling.
How Are Pressure-Sensitive Labels Made?
QAL manufactures PSLs using advanced print technology and quality control systems that ensure consistency and performance:
- Material Selection – Based on product needs, environmental conditions, and branding goals.
- Printing – Our 12-unit presses support flexographic, screen, and combination printing for vibrant, detailed labels.
- Die-Cutting – Labels are precisely cut to your custom size and shape.
- Laminating – Optional protective film adds durability and aesthetic appeal.
- Finishing – Labels are wound onto rolls or cut into sheets for easy application.
QAL also provides specialty enhancements like cast and cure and tactile coatings to elevate your packaging and shelf appeal.
Why Choose QAL for Your Pressure-Sensitive Labels
For over 40 years, QAL has delivered premium labeling solutions that combine precision engineering, standout design, and expert material sourcing. From simple product identifiers to regulatory-compliant extended content labels (ECLs), we tailor every component for your product’s success.
- Custom Label Constructions
- Full-Service In-House Prepress
- Collaborative, Consultative Approach
Let’s design a label that performs—and impresses. Contact us today to start your project.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What industries benefit most from pressure-sensitive labels?
A: PSLs are widely used in food and beverage, health and wellness, personal care, household goods, pharmaceuticals, and industrial markets due to their flexibility, performance, and customization options.
Q: Are pressure-sensitive labels suitable for products stored in extreme conditions?
A: Absolutely. Materials can be sourced for freezer-grade or high-heat adhesives that maintain label integrity under extreme cold, moisture, or heat.
Q: What is an extended content label (ECL)?
A: ECLs are multi-layered labels designed to include additional information, such as regulatory or multilingual content, without taking up extra space. QAL produces thin, durable PSL-based ECLs for industries like healthcare and agriculture.
Ready to find the right label construction for your product?
Let’s create something that performs under pressure. Explore our PSL capabilities now »