How To Use An Airless Pump

Airless pumps are brilliant for keeping your skincare fresh and hygienic. They use a vacuum system rather than a traditional tube, which means less air exposure, better product preservation, and for thicker consistencies, are more efficient to disperse. But sometimes, they can be a little stubborn, especially when they’re brand new or if air has slipped into the chamber.

The good news? A stuck pump doesn’t mean a faulty product. There are a few simple tricks you can try to get yours working again.

Why Airless Pumps Can Stick

Airless pumps rely on pressure to push product upwards. If air gets trapped inside, or if product hasn’t yet reached the chamber, the pump may not release anything. Luckily, you can usually fix this in a few easy steps.

5 Easy Ways to Fix an Airless Pump

1. Prime Upright

• Hold the bottle straight up.

• Place your finger firmly over the nozzle to create back-pressure.

• Press the pump fully down and release 5–10 times, slowly and steadily.

• You’ll feel it when the vacuum catches.

• Avoid quick half-presses — they can trap more air inside.

2. Prime Upside-Down

Still no luck? Try gravity.

• Turn the bottle upside down.

• Pump 10 times.

• This helps product slide into the pump chamber.

3. Tap the Base

Sometimes the piston just needs a little nudge.

• With the bottle upright, tap the bottom firmly against the palm of your hand 6–8 times.

• Then try priming again.

4. Clear the Nozzle

If the pump worked before but suddenly stopped, dried product may be blocking it.

• Run the nozzle under warm water for 20–30 seconds.

• Pump a few times, dry the nozzle, then test again.

5. Reset the Piston

If the pump is still not cooperating, check the underside of the bottle.

• Look for two small holes.

• Using a straightened paperclip, gently push the piston upward by 1–3 mm.

• This can release trapped air and reset the mechanism.

Final Checks

• If the piston has already reached the top, the bottle is empty.

• If the spring doesn’t rebound after priming, the mechanism itself may be faulty. In that case, please get in touch with our team for support.