Why Packaging Matters: Why We Choose Airless Pumps (And How to Fix Common Pump Issues)
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“Why doesn’t Forest MD use jars?”
“Can’t the bottles be clear?”
“I like to see how much product is left.”
We often receive these questions from clients. We understand—jars and transparent bottles are undeniably convenient. But at Forest MD, we choose our packaging with a purpose, prioritising both efficacy and hygiene.
Skincare packaging comes in various forms, from jars and tubes to pumps and sprays. While consumers often focus on the product’s ingredients, beauty insiders know that the right packaging plays a crucial role in maintaining a product’s integrity and performance.
Here’s what you need to know about common skincare containers.
Jars
Pros:
Affordable and convenient Allows users to scoop out as much product as desired Easy to see when the product is running low
Cons:
Frequent exposure to air and light degrades active ingredients Direct contact with fingers introduces bacteria, leading to contamination Shortens product shelf life and increases the risk of skin irritation or infection
Bottles with Pumps
Pros: Sleek and attractive design Reduces contamination by minimising contact with hands If clear, allows visibility of remaining product
Cons: Exposure to air can oxidise and degrade active ingredients Light penetration (in clear bottles) further compromises ingredient stability Must be held upright or at a specific angle for proper dispensing
Tubes
Pros: Protects contents from light and air exposure Less prone to spills when traveling Limits bacterial contamination
Cons: Can be difficult to squeeze out every last drop of product Generally considered less premium in appearance
Why Forest MD Uses Airless Pumps
At Forest MD, we choose airless pump packaging for our essences, serums, moisturisers and Stem Cell Sleeping Mask. This is the most innovative skincare container available today, ensuring your product remains fresh and potent from the first pump to the last.
Pros: Protects active ingredients from air, germs and light Requires fewer synthetic preservatives and stabilisers, which are often sources of irritation Removes up to 99% of product, minimising waste Can be used at any angle—no need to store upright
Con: The product level isn’t visible
Not every skincare formula requires airless packaging, but those containing delicate or high-dose active ingredients—like vitamin C, peptides and stem cell extracts—absolutely do. These potent yet fragile ingredients break down when exposed to air and light, diminishing their effectiveness. Traditional containers expose skincare products to a “trifecta of toxicity”—oxygen, light, and bacteria with each use. Airless pumps eliminate this risk, keeping your product sealed and stable until the moment it’s dispensed.
This ensures that:
1. Your skincare remains potent for longer, delivering the best results.
2. You get the full value of your purchase—airless pumps protect the most expensive ingredients.
How to Identify an Airless Pump
Curious whether your skincare product is airless? Flip the bottle upside down. If you see a small hole at the base, it’s an airless dispenser! This hole allows air to enter as the internal plate rises with each pump, ensuring smooth and consistent dispensing.
Using Airless Pumps – Troubleshooting & Solutions
While airless pumps are the gold standard of skincare packaging, two common concerns may arise:
1. “The pump isn’t working.”
This can occur when the pump is pressed too quickly or if the internal plate sticks before its first use. Some users instinctively pump harder, which can worsen the issue.
Solution: Tap the bottle firmly on a hard surface to loosen the plate. Then, turn it upside down and gently press the pump several times to prime it. A gentle shake may also help. We’ve successfully fixed many “broken” pumps this way at our Medspa!
2. “I can’t tell when it’s empty.”
Unlike transparent bottles or tubes, airless pumps don’t reveal the remaining product level. Some users worry they might be discarding usable product. Solution: To ensure you get the full amount stated on the label, Forest MD slightly overfills each product by several milliliters. For example, our Stem Cell Sleeping Mask contains 52ml instead of 50ml. We’ve tested this ourselves—dispensing and weighing the product to confirm you receive every last drop!
A Final Note
Early-stage spoilage results in reduced potency, transforming high-performance skincare into little more than a basic lotion. In humid environments, bacteria can multiply rapidly, leading to breakouts or skin infections.
By using airless pumps, we ensure your skincare remains fresh, effective and safe—every single time.
At Forest MD, we are committed to providing you with science-backed formulations in the most protective, high-tech packaging available. Because your skin deserves the very best.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why does my airless pump take a few presses before dispensing product?
This is normal for first-time use. Since there’s no dip tube, the internal vacuum must be activated. Follow our troubleshooting steps to prime the pump if needed.
2. My product changed colour. Is it still safe to use?
A slight colour shift can be normal for some active ingredients due to the presence of natural extracts, botanical ingredients (like our stem cell extracts) and antioxidants. Ingredients like plant extracts may darken slightly over time due to oxidation. However, if the product has significantly changed in colour, texture or smell, it may be a sign of degradation or spoilage. To maintain stability, store your skincare in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and humidity.
3. How long does my skincare stay effective?
For best results, use your product within two years from the manufacturing date and finish it within six months of opening.
4. Can water contamination cause spoilage?
Yes! Water contamination can lead to growth of mould, which is why you should never rinse your bottled skincare under running water. Instead, wipe the bottle with an alcohol swab or dry tissue to keep it clean.
5. Where should I store my skincare?
Store your products in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you keep them in the bathroom, place them in a cabinet, drawer or another cool spot to protect them from temperature and humidity changes.
6. Can I travel with airless pump bottles?
Yes! Airless pumps are leak-proof and work at any angle, making them ideal for travel. However, ensure the cap is secured to prevent accidental dispensing in your bag.
7. Can I refill an airless pump bottle?
No, airless pump bottles are designed as single-use containers to maintain product integrity and prevent contamination. Refilling may introduce bacteria and compromise the formulation.
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