15 Best Feminine Hygiene Products That Are Safe To Use – 2023
Keep your intimate area safe and protected with these affordable and gentle formulations.
Hillary ClarkEsthetician
Expertise: Makeup & Skin Care
Experience: 21 years
Hillary Clark is a third-generation beauty entrepreneur, celebrity makeup artist, and medical esthetician with 21 years of experience. Her stints as the youngest Beauty Director for Nordstrom and West Coast Beauty Editor for Sephora provide... more
Oyendrila Kanjilal Certified Skin Care Coach
Expertise: Skin Care & Hair Care
Experience: 2 years
Oyendrila holds a master's degree in English Literature from the University Of Calcutta, West Bengal, and is a certified skincare coach. As a beauty and lifestyle writer with two years of experience, ... more
Image: StyleCraze Design Team
Just like we take care of our skin, hair, and overall health, we need to take care of our intimate areas as well. And, you should only depend on the best feminine hygiene products for that. Hillary Clark, a medical esthetician with 21 years of experience, states, “Our personal areas have their own microbiome and their balance can vary during different times of the month so products targeted for that area are helpful if you experience discomfort or odor.” These products are pH-balanced to help keep your private areas clean and infection-free. Not only are these specially formulated free of harmful chemicals, but they also help boost your skin health down there as well.
Scroll down to check out the 15 best feminine hygiene products listed below!
In This Article
What Are Feminine Hygiene Products?
Feminine hygiene products are personal care products for women to keep their intimate areas (inner thighs, genitals, vulva, and vagina) clean. These products are helpful during menstruation and vaginal discharge. Feminine hygiene products help keep your private parts odorless and irritation-free. Sanitary pads, tampons, panty liners, menstrual cups are a few examples of feminine hygiene products.
Let’s now look at the top 15 feminine hygiene products.
15 Best Feminine Hygiene Products
1. Best Gynecologist-Tested:FDS Intimate + Body Cleansing Wash
The FDS Intimate + Body Cleansing Wash is all you need for all-day freshness. It gently washes away odor-causing bacteria, even from the most sensitive body parts. The product also nourishes the skin and helps maintain skin pH. The light, sweet notes of the formulation will keep you smelling like a dream after your workout, before and after sexy times, during periods, or whenever you want. The intimate+body wash is available in four fragrances – aloe fresh, coconut milk, cucumber and green tea, and tangerine blossom.
Pros
- pH-balanced
- Dermatologist-tested
- Dye-free
- Alcohol-free
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
None
2. Best Fragrance-Free:Summer’s Eve Spa Daily Intimate Skin Serum
The Summer’s Eve Spa Daily Intimate Skin Serum is a soothing serum for the outer intimate skin area. This lightweight formula contains vitamin E, aloe vera, and coconut oil that help hydrate, smoothen, and soften the skin. It is gentle on the skin and gets absorbed quickly. You can use it daily after shaving and grooming the bikini area, showering, and as a nighttime nourishing treatment.
Pros
- Gynecologist-tested
- Cruelty-free
- pH-balanced
- Non-greasy
- Suitable for sensitive skin
Cons
- None
Caution3. Best Certified Organic:Rael Organic Cotton Core Tampons
The Rael Organic Cotton Core Tampons are made of 100% certified organic cotton. The ultra-slim plastic applicator features a contoured anti-slip and rounded tip that enables comfortable insertion. These BPA-free tampons expand to fit the body for maximum protection. The unique Leak Locker technology offers up to 8 hours of protection.
Pros
- Easy to insert
- Long-lasting
- No harmful dyes
- No artificial fragrances
- No harsh chemicals
Cons
None
4. Best Toxin-Free:Rael Organic Cotton Cover Pads
The Rael Organic Cotton Cover Pads are made of 100% certified organic cotton. These ultra-premium pillowy pads prevent overflowing and leakage, keeping you fresh and dry. They trap fluids, help control the heaviest flows, and offer day and night protection.
Pros
- No harmful chemicals
- Toxin-free
- Pesticide-free
- Dermatologist-tested
- Diminish unpleasant odors
Cons
- Flimsy adhesive
5. Best Ultra-Thin Design:Rael Heating Patch
The Rael Heating Patches help soothe muscular tension and menstrual cramps. The instant heat-up technology reaches the temperature of 149°F. These heating patches promote blood flow and relieve muscle cramps. They are made of five herbal ingredients – lemon balm, juniper berry, jasmine, dandelion root, and rosehip – that help minimize abdominal discomfort and swelling. The ultra-thin design attaches to your lower abdomen and relieves pain for up to 6 hours. This product also reduces bloating and helps improve your mood.
Pros
- Durable
- Ultra-thin design
- Long-lasting
- Easy to use
- Firm grip
Cons
None
Caution6. Best pH Balanced:Organyc Complete Protection Tampons
The Organic Complete Protection Tampons are made of 100% cotton and are breathable and gentle on the skin. They are ultra-absorbent and suitable for your regular flow days. These tampons are 90% plant-based and pH balanced. The cardboard applicator with rounded tips and finger ridges enables easy insertion.
Pros
- Travel-friendly
- pH-balanced
- Breathable
- Hypoallergenic
- Paraben-free
- Chlorine-free
- Rayon-free
- No artificial fragrances
- No synthetic dyes
Cons
- Difficult to insert
7. Best Soft Fabric:Medline Maternity Feminine Hygiene Pads
The Medline Maternity Feminine Hygiene Pads are highly absorbent. These maternity pads are made of soft fabric and comfortable to use. The fluffy polymer material offers reliable protection for new moms.
Pros
- Highly absorbent
- Soft fabric
- Comfortable to use
Cons
None
8. Best Long-Lasting:Claene Organic Cotton Cover Liners
The Claene Organic Cotton Cover Liners are non-toxic panty liners with soft, flexible edges that prevent chafing. They adhere to the garment firmly without slipping. The unique hourglass shape fits perfectly to your body. These panty liners are long-lasting and remove vagina odor.
Pros
- No synthetic dyes
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Chlorine-free
- Fragrance-free
- Chlorine-free
- Rayon-free
- Polyester-free
- Phthalate-free
Cons
None
9. Best Dermatologist-Tested:Positive Intent Spiritual Body Cleansing Bar
The Positive Intent Spiritual Body Cleansing Bar is a gentle soap that will help you cleanse your entire body, even the most sensitive parts. This feminine wash soap bar features the fragrance of luxurious peppermint leaves that will help you relax. It also contains skin-friendly ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, and sunflower oil that hydrate the skin and help maintains its pH. The bar is ideal for normal, oily, combination, dry, and sensitive skin.
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- Vegan
- Sulfate-free
- Phthalate-free
- Paraben-free
- Gluten-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- None
10. Best Pleasant Scent:Vagisil Odor Block Daily Intimate Wash
The Vagisil Odor Block Daily Intimate Wash has a patented odor block technology that offers 24 hours of odor protection. This intimate wash is enriched with aloe, chamomile, calendula, and flower extracts that prevent odor even before it occurs. The gentle formula is pH-balanced and suitable for daily use.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Gynecologist-tested
- Pleasant scent
- Dye-free
- pH-balanced
- Suitable for daily use
Cons
- Not long-lasting
11. Best BPA-Free:Lena Menstrual Cup
The Lena Menstrual Cup is reusable and made of 100% medical-grade silicone cup. It is easy to insert and fits comfortably. This menstrual cup offers an odorless sensation and leak-free periods. You can wear it for 12 hours during dancing, swimming, or sleeping. Hillary Clark, a medical esthetician states, “ It is an excellent alternative for active people, especially for people who love engaging in water sports.”
Pros
- Reusable
- Long-lasting
- Hypoallergenic
- BPA-free
- Latex-free
- Dioxin-free
12. Best For Reusable:Intimina Ziggy Cup
Image: Intimina The Intimina Ziggy Cup has a flat design that fits perfectly on your body and offers up to 12 hours of protection. It is flexible, leak-proof, and easy to insert. This menstrual cup is made with medical-grade silicone and reusable for up to 2 years. It is comfortable to wear and remains below the cervix so that you do not feel anything. It can also be worn during sex. Hillary Clark, a medical esthetician, exclaims, “ This menstrual cup is easy to use and ideal for travel. It can be also be worn during sex.”
Pros
- Long-lasting
- BPA-free
- Phthalate-free
- Bleach-free
- Hypoallergenic
- No harmful chemicals
- FDA approved
Cons
None
13. Best Talc-Free:Summer’s Eve Ultra Freshening Spray
The Summer’s Eve Ultra Freshening Spray is a safe and gentle feminine spray. It is uniquely formulated to neutralize your body’s natural pH and keep your intimate area fresh and odorless. It is inspired by the fragrance of passion flowers and island fruits. This product also has vitamin E and corn starch. These skin-friendly ingredients work to absorb moisture without harming the delicate skin down there. While using the spray, always hold it at least 8 inches away from the vulval area. You can also spritz it on your panties and panty liners.
Pros
- Gynecologist-tested
- Cruelty-free
- pH-balanced
- Safe scents
Cons
- Not long-lasting
14. Best Plastic-Free:DivaCup Menstrual Cup
The DivaCup Menstrual Cup is designed with 100% medical-grade silicone that lasts for almost a year. It is suitable for women aged between 19-34 and can be worn for up to 12 hours. The leak-resistant air holes under the rim create a seal that secures the cup in place. This menstrual cup is easy to grip for safe removal. I
Pros
- Eco-friendly
- Long-lasting
- Easy to use
- Comfortable to wear
- Firm grip
- Plastic-free
- Dye-free
Cons
Might feel stiff.
15. Best Odor Protection:Carefree Acti-Fresh Daily Liners
The Carefree Acti-Fresh Daily Liners have a quilted, soft honeycomb design that minimizes bunching and twisting. The absorbent Qwik-Dry core locks the fluids fast and keeps you fresh day long. These panty liners offer up to 8 hours of odor protection.
Pros
- Do not twist
- Long-lasting
- 8-hour odor control
- Available in various sizes
- Unscented
Cons
None
Feminine hygiene products can be classified into two types – menstrual products and personal hygiene products. Check out the following section to know about them in detail.
Types Of Feminine Hygiene Products
Menstrual Products
1. Tampons
Tampons are little plugs made of cotton that are inserted into your vagina to soak menstrual blood. They often come with applicators (small sticks made of cardboard or plastic) that help in the insertion. The string attached to the end of the tampon enables you to pull it out. If there is no applicator, you can also insert a tampon with your fingers. Tampons are available in different sizes – light, regular, and super. The one with the lowest absorbency lasts a few hours.
2. Sanitary Pads
Sanitary pads are narrow pieces of absorbent material that you stick to your underwear during your menstrual cycle. Some pads have wings or flaps that can be folded over the edges of your underwear to prevent leaks and stains. Sanitary napkins are usually disposable, while some can be washed and reused. They are available in different sizes based on the intensity of blood flow – low, medium, high.
3. Menstrual Cups
Menstrual cups are shaped like little bells or bowls. They are made of rubber, silicone, or soft plastic. These cups are worn inside your vagina to collect menstrual blood. They are reusable – empty them when you need to, wash, and reuse. Menstrual cups may look big, but you cannot feel them once they are in.
4. Period Underwear
Period underwear, popularly known as period panties, have extra fabric layers that help absorb your menstrual blood. They can be worn alone or with a tampon or menstrual cup. Period underwears are available in various sizes for light, medium, and heavy flow days.
Personal Hygiene Products
1. Feminine Intimate Wash
A feminine intimate wash is a liquid solution to cleanse private areas like the vulva, vagina, and genitals. It is safe for women who experience irritation, itching, dryness, and infection in their vaginal area. You can also use it during pregnancy and menstruation. Intimate washes help balance the vaginal pH level and support the growth of good bacteria, Lactobacillus, which keeps your vagina healthy.
2. Feminine Wipes
Feminine wipes can be used regularly during your menstruation cycle. They not only protect the vagina from chronic infection but also help reduce odor and irritation.
Follow these simple steps to maintain good hygiene down there.
How To Maintain Better Hygiene Down There
- Use lukewarm water to wash the vulva. Dry it gently with a towel.
- Wear cotton underwear and avoid fabrics that might irritate your vulva.
- Wash your undergarments carefully with a mild soap.
- Wash new underwear before wearing.
- Do not wear a sanitary pad or tampon for more than 4-6 hours.
- Avoid using a feminine spray, deodorants, scented oils, bubble baths, bath oils, talc, and powder in your private parts. These items can irritate your vulva.
Note: The vagina has a self-cleansing mechanism – it cleanses itself naturally in the form of vaginal discharge. Do not overuse any feminine hygiene products as they can have side effects and hamper the pH balance of your vagina.
What To Avoid When Looking For Feminine Hygiene Products
Avoid pads and tampons made of synthetic material like rayon or SAPs (Super Absorbent Polymers). Such artificial materials are bleached with chlorine that might irritate your private parts.
Hygiene is essential to keep your overall health intact. However, you should be more cautious when it comes to intimate area hygiene. Odor, itching, and rashes are some common concerns that women face in this intimate area. You can bid goodbye to them by using the right feminine hygiene products. Whether they are daily liners, menstrual cups, intimate wash, or waist panties, the products listed above are hypoallergenic and have no nasty chemicals to harm your skin. But stay away from the products that cause discomfort.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Oyendrila Kanjilal specializes in identifying the best feminine hygiene products based on her experience as a certified skin care coach. She has compiled a comprehensive list of menstrual and intimate hygiene products tailored to user needs. Understand the pros and cons of each product, as they are great for keeping your private parts odorless and irritation-free, especially during menstruation and vaginal discharge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should you use feminine wash every day?
No. Although not required, you may use a feminine wash once daily to maintain personal hygiene.
Are feminine hygiene products biodegradable?
No, not all feminine hygiene products are biodegradable. However, more and more brands are offering biodegradable sanitary napkins, tampons, and menstrual cups.
Is it okay to use scented feminine hygiene products?
No, scented hygiene products contain synthetic chemicals that may prove harmful and cause irritations. They may also cause an imbalance of the good and bad bacterial presence, leading to infections.
Are feminine hygiene products necessary?
Yes. Feminine hygiene products are important to maintain hygiene standards.
What is the safest period product?
This is mostly a personal preference and how well you are accustomed to using a pad, cup, or tampon. However, on average menstrual pads are said to be safer than tampons and cups.
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- 22 Home Remedies That Work To Get Rid Of Vaginal Discharge Odor
