A screw-based dispenser for the application of cosmetic products and other applicable gels, liquids, and solids. The screw-based dispenser may have one or more of the following features: a cylindrical outer casing having at least two diametrically opposed feedback struts, a threaded screw connected to a base that is rotatable relative to the cylindrical outer casing, an elevator retention mechanism, a movable elevator operably engaged with the threaded screw within the cylindrical outer casing, and an elevator locking mechanism providing resistance to spontaneous axial movement of the elevator toward an end of the threaded screw opposite the rotatable base.