Best Practices for Storing Your Formial Pump

March 04, 2025 | 4 min read

Dr Jeet Patel
AUTHOR
Vidha Saad
B Pharm

Editor : Dr Jeet Patel MBBS MRCGP FRACGP MMed (Skin Cancer)

Introduction

Your Formial skincare product is crafted with precision to address your unique skin concerns. Since it contains active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) in a personalized formulation, proper storage is essential to maintain its effectiveness. Unlike mass-produced skincare, compounded medicines have a shorter shelf life due to the absence of strong preservatives and the stability of APIs. In this guide, we’ll cover the best practices for storing your Formial pump, ensuring it remains safe and effective for its full 35-day shelf life.

Why Do Compounded Medicines Have a Shorter Shelf Life?

Unlike commercial skincare products that may last for months or even years, compounded formulations are made in small batches specifically for individual needs. Here’s why their shelf life is limited:

  1. Minimal Preservatives: Many commercial skincare products contain strong preservatives to extend their shelf life. In contrast, Formial formulations prioritize skin safety by minimizing harsh additives, leading to a shorter but safer product life.

  2. Active Ingredient Stability: APIs are sensitive to environmental factors like light, heat, and air exposure. Some ingredients degrade quickly, reducing their effectiveness over time.

  3. Freshness Matters: Since your formulation is made fresh for you, it is most effective within its recommended use period.

To get the best results, following proper storage guidelines is crucial.

Storage Guidelines for Your Formial Pump

1. Keep It in a Cool, Dry Place

Your Formial pump should be stored in a cool and dry environment, ideally below 25°C (77°F). Exposure to heat can cause degradation of the active ingredients, leading to reduced potency.

Avoid:

  • Direct sunlight

  • Warm areas such as near stoves or radiators

  • Bathrooms with high humidity

2. Refrigeration: Yes or No?

While refrigeration can help preserve certain APIs, not all formulations require it. Your product label or instructions will specify if refrigeration is needed.

If refrigeration is recommended:

  • Store the pump in the refrigerator, not the freezer.

  • Keep it away from food items with strong odors to prevent contamination.

  • Allow the pump to return to room temperature before application for better consistency.

3. Keep the Pump Sealed and Upright

Airless pumps are designed to protect the formulation from oxidation and contamination. To ensure optimal performance:

  • Always secure the cap tightly after use.

  • Store the pump in an upright position to prevent leakage or air bubbles from forming inside.

4. Avoid Frequent Temperature Fluctuations

Moving the product between extreme temperatures (e.g., from the refrigerator to a warm room) can affect its consistency and stability. If refrigeration is required, store it consistently in one place.

5. Handle with Clean Hands

Although the airless pump prevents direct contamination, always handle your product with clean, dry hands. This prevents bacteria and dirt from transferring onto the dispensing nozzle. Additionally, wash your hands after application to avoid accidental transfer of active ingredients to other parts of your body.

6. Use the Recommended Amount

To ensure optimal results, follow the recommended dosage. Typically, use two pumps per application unless otherwise instructed by your dermatologist. Overuse may lead to unnecessary problems, while underuse may reduce its effectiveness.

7. Keep Out of Reach of Children

Since Formial products contain active pharmaceutical ingredients, they should always be stored out of the reach of children. Accidental ingestion or application could cause unwanted effects, so ensure your pump is placed in a secure location.

8. Do Not Transfer to Another Container

Transferring your skincare formulation into another container may introduce air, bacteria, and other contaminants that could compromise its stability and effectiveness. Keep it in its original packaging for best results.

How to Tell If Your Product Has Expired

Even with careful storage, it’s important to recognize signs that your Formial product may no longer be effective:

  • Change in Texture: If your formulation becomes too thick, runny, or grainy, it may have degraded.

  • Change in Color: Some ingredients naturally darken over time, but a drastic color shift could indicate spoilage.

  • Unusual Smell: A sour or rancid odor may suggest microbial contamination or oxidation.

If you observe any of these changes, discontinue use and consult Formial Labs for guidance.

Final Tips for Maintaining Your Formial Pump

  • Use the product consistently within the recommended time period for optimal results.

  • Keep track of your start date to ensure you finish your product before expiration.

  • Order refills in time to prevent a gap in your skincare routine.

Conclusion

Your Formial airless pump is designed to keep your personalized skincare fresh and effective. By following these best practices you can maximize its benefits. Personalized skincare is a commitment, and proper storage ensures you get the best results tailored to your skin’s needs. If you have any questions about your formulation, don’t hesitate to reach out to the pharmacist of Formial labs for expert advice.



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