EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 dispense product on back of hand

How to Use EltaMD UV Clear Pump - Troubleshooting Guide & Video

Opening and pumping a bottle of EltaMD UV Clear can sometimes be a bit tricky for new users, especially given the product's unique packaging designed to preserve its quality. Whether you're a longtime fan of EltaMD's renowned skincare products or trying it for the first time, understanding how to properly open and dispense this sunscreen ensures you get the most out of its skin-protecting benefits. In this blog post, we'll guide you through the simple steps to open and pump the EltaMD UV Clear bottle effectively, so you can easily enjoy its lightweight, non-comedogenic formula that provides powerful sun protection while keeping your skin clear and healthy.

VIDEO: How to Prime EltaMD Pump

Video Source: EltaMD Tik Tok

What is an Airless Pump Bottle and What are Its Advantages?

An airless pump bottle is a type of packaging commonly used in the skincare and cosmetic industry to protect and dispense products without exposing them to air. Unlike traditional pump bottles, which rely on a dip tube, airless pump bottles use a vacuum system to dispense the product. This innovative design involves a piston mechanism that rises with each pump, pushing the product upwards and out of the nozzle, ensuring that no air enters the bottle.

Advantages of Airless Pump Bottles

  1. Product Preservation: One of the main benefits of airless pump bottles is their ability to preserve the integrity of the product. By minimizing exposure to air, these bottles help prevent oxidation and contamination, which can degrade the product’s effectiveness and shelf life. This is particularly important for skincare products that contain active ingredients sensitive to air and light, such as vitamin C or retinol.
  2. Accurate Dosage: Airless pump bottles allow for precise dosing with each pump. This means you can easily control the amount of product dispensed, reducing waste and ensuring consistent application. This feature is especially useful for products like serums or sunscreens where the recommended amount is crucial for efficacy.
  3. Hygienic and Convenient: Since airless pump bottles don’t require opening and closing like jars or traditional bottles, they offer a more hygienic way to dispense skincare products. This reduces the risk of bacteria and other contaminants entering the product. Additionally, their user-friendly design makes them convenient for everyday use and travel, ensuring that you can maintain your skincare routine wherever you go.
  4. Efficient Product Use: With airless pump technology, nearly all of the product inside the bottle can be used up. The rising piston ensures that every last drop is pushed out, minimizing product waste and maximizing value for money.



Here is an illustration of an airless pump bottle, showing its components and mechanism. 



You can see the design, which highlights the inner piston mechanism and how it operates without a dip tube.

Airless Pump Bottle Technology Illustration

Troubleshooting Steps

  1. With the cap on the product, invert the container upside down and tap in the palm of your hand 8-10 times.
  2. Return the container to its upright position.
  3. Remove the lid from the product, and with the nozzle away from your face, press the pump to dispense the product into your hand. It may take several pumps to completely prime the pump to allow the actuator to deliver the product.
  4. If the EltaMD pump continues to fail, try steps 1 through 3 again, but tapping slightly harder to force the liquid into the actuator.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my airless pump bottle stop working?

This can happen if air gets trapped inside the bottle. To fix it, try tapping the bottle on a hard surface or pumping multiple times to create the necessary vacuum.

Do airless pumps work with all product consistencies?

Airless pumps are generally effective for a variety of product consistencies, from serums to creams, but extremely thick formulations might not dispense as smoothly.

How do I get the last bit of product out of an airless pump bottle?

Airless pump bottles are designed to minimize leftover product. If the pump stops dispensing, try tapping the bottle or using a thin tool to scrape the sides gently.

Are airless pump bottles eco-friendly?

Many airless pump bottles are made from recyclable materials, and their design often allows for reduced waste by ensuring more product is used.

Are airless pump bottles more expensive than traditional bottles?

Yes, airless pump bottles can be more expensive due to their advanced design and technology, but they often provide better value by reducing product waste and extending shelf life.

Can airless pump bottles be refilled?

Some airless pump bottles are designed to be refillable, while others are not. It's essential to check the product packaging or manufacturer's instructions.

Marla Willis

Marla Willis has over a decade of experience in the beauty industry and is President of Exclusive Beauty online retailer of professional skincare, beauty, health & wellness products. A self-professed beauty enthusiast, Marla knows what's new, what works and what are the best products to enhance beauty and promote skin health.