Sanitary pads are women’s ally when that time of the month comes. However, for women with sensitive skin, looking for a sanitary pad that won’t cause rashes and irritation can be difficult. With the wide variation of sanitary pads and other feminine care products available in the market, it is vital to choose one that would work best for your sensitive skin.
Thankfully, you can brush these worries away because, in this article, we will be providing you with a list of 10 of the best sanitary pads for sensitive skin. We will also be walking you through choosing the right one for your feminine area through a detailed buying guide fact-checked by Obstetrician-Gynecologist Chona Fabian-Madarang, MD!
Dr. Chona Fabian-Madarang is a private practitioner specializing in women's health. She is always on the lookout for new innovations and inventions.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
Buying guides reviewed by featured experts.
Products or services listed have been independently ranked by the mybest Editorial Team based on the points mentioned in our thoroughly researched buying guide as of 01-16-2023. Experts featured in this article did not participate in the selection and ranking process.
Here are some key points to consider:
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
When choosing sanitary pads, there is no such thing as “one size fits all”. This is because selecting a pad that does not cater to the type of flow you have can be a disadvantage. Below are the sanitary pad sizes suitable for light, moderate, and heavy flows.
If you only have light to moderate menstrual flow, regular pads are enough to have you covered. They usually come in medium length and can absorb moderately. Plus, they are typically cheaper than other pad sizes, so some women prefer them regardless of the intensity of their flow.
However, if you have a heavier flow, using only regular pads can cause leakage. Hence, to avoid leakage, you may need to change them more frequently. If you also prefer pads that are less bulky and comfortable to wear, regular pads may be the best option for you.
From the name itself, long pads are longer than regular pads. They provide excellent coverage, preventing both front and back leakage. Moreover, they typically have better absorption capabilities than regular pads, perfect for days when you have heavy menstrual flow.
Washing stained bedsheets because of your menstruation can be annoying. To get rid of this worry, you may opt for overnight pads. They are longer than regular pads and have a wider surface at the back to prevent leaks, even when you toss and turn during your sleep. Furthermore, they usually have the best absorption capabilities, with some even providing protection for up to 10 hours.
There are two common types of sanitary pads—non-wing or with wings. The distinguishable factor with them is that winged pads have flaps on the side to keep it intact, while non-wings have none of these. If you want to know what works best for you, continue reading!
Because non-wing pads do not have side flaps that can come in contact with your skin, you can worry less about them irritating your inner thighs. Thus, they are often more comfortable to wear and easier to remove and change. However, non-wing pads may detach and deform easily, especially when you are active.
If you’re someone with an active lifestyle, you may consider using pads with wings. Its side flaps keep your napkin in place longer than non-wing pads. Moreover, it may lessen side leakages because of the additional material. Its flaps, however, can cause discomfort when they touch your skin and may lose their adhesiveness.
If you have sensitive skin in your feminine area, you need to be more critical about choosing the sanitary pad that won’t harm your skin. In this case, always remember to check the label, as well as the materials your sanitary pad is made of.
If your feminine area is sensitive and prone to rashes, consider looking for pads labeled “hypoallergenic.” Hypoallergenic pads are free from materials that could irritate your skin, such as foam, wood cellulose, or zinc oxide. Furthermore, hypoallergenic pads can also prevent unwanted rashes, itching, and redness.
Your best bet on picking a rash-free sanitary pad is to choose ones that are made of 100% organic cotton. Aside from them being the most comfortable, they are also breathable and chemical-free, so you don’t have to worry about redness, itching, or discomfort.
Proper feminine hygiene is essential, as it is an area of a women’s body that is sensitive and vulnerable to bacteria. These microbes cause irritation, itch, and even unpleasant odor, especially when menstruating. Therefore, it is recommended to use antibacterial sanitary pads, especially if you have sensitive skin. They can prevent itching and also minimize the growth of odor-causing bacteria.
Some pads may contain allergens like synthetic fragrances that are harmful to sensitive skin. To steer clear of these, unscented pads are recommended as a safe option. Although fragrances are usually used to mask menstruation odor, they can potentially irritate delicate skin. This is because they may disrupt the vagina's pH balance and attract more bacteria.
If you like to go for an eco-friendly option, you may opt for reusable pads. Unlike single-use pads, reusable ones are washable and can be reused. Several of these pads are also free of chemicals that you can find on disposable pads, so those with sensitive skin may be more hiyang to them.
However, you still need to check whether you’re allergic to its material or not. The safest options for reusable pads are those made of organic cotton or bamboo. You also need to take extra care in washing them to ensure that no bacteria or germs will be left after washing.
Made without all the potential allergens and harmful chemicals you might worry about, like fragrances, this overnight pad ensures great comfort minus the irritation, rashes, and itching. Its top sheet is also made of 100% organic cotton, certified by The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) for its hypoallergenic properties.
Moreover, its cotton sheet offers healthy leak protection, making it perfect for overnight use. Users also love how it feels like they didn't have a sanitary pad on when using this product since it is super comfortable to wear and doesn't weigh them down.
Not only is this product good for your feminine area, but also the environment. From the pad itself to its wrapper, this sanitary pad is composed of biodegradable materials, such as polylactic acid derived from cornstarch.
This no-frills, no-fuss sanitary pad by Natracare boasts intensive absorption with an extra cushion layer and wings to secure the pad in place and protect you from leakage. It also comes in a "super" size that's perfect for medium to heavy flow.
Gynecologists recommend this pad to be suitable for sensitive skin, so it is one of your best picks if you're looking for one that won't cause you discomfort. It is free from materials that could trigger skin allergies and irritation, such as perfumes, dyes, plastic, and chlorine.
Furthermore, it is United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)-certified because of its bio-based composition. It is composed of organic cotton pads, a plant cellulose core, a back layer from plant starch, and a compostable wrapper. Indeed, an eco-friendly option!
With its claim to fame being the first sanitary napkin that can alleviate dysmenorrhea, this product offers health benefits, especially for those with hormonal issues. Its key component, the negative ion strip, can increase energy levels, decrease heavy periods, kill odor-causing bacteria, balance hormones, and more!
Another good thing about this pad is that it has a cotton-based top sheet for a soft and gentle feeling. Aside from that, it also has food-grade and biodegradable back sheet components, making it an eco-friendly option.
Users also love how it has a cooling effect on the feminine area when used, contributing to less discomfort and a good mood during menstruation. This pad has an active oxygen technology as well that accelerates the air circulation in the feminine area, increasing breathability.
If you're looking for an eco-friendly and reusable product, this sanitary pad may be the best fit for you! The Brand Hannah's Pad is made of organically grown cotton certified by The Control Union. It is also toxin-, formaldehyde-, and fragrance-free, so you don't have to worry about allergic reactions.
Another reassuring factor is that it is Dermatest-certified as a non-irritating and rash-free product. In terms of absorption, this pad also has an inserted TPU waterproof coating inside, which resists water while giving a breathable feel.
Lastly, it boasts a non-slip feature with its silicone backing, so you don't have to worry about it shifting even when you move. Its high-quality snaps are also made of 100% recyclable plastic and can also provide an extra grip.
With its soft antibacterial layer, this sanitary pad is guaranteed to prevent 99.9% of bacteria growth in your feminine area. What makes it more reassuring is its addition of natural extracts like aloe vera and chamomile extracts to soothe skin.
Moreover, it has a micro-dry cover with up to 3,000 micro holes, which minimize friction to give you an extra breathable and comfortable feel. It also has a rapid-absorb core that guarantees quick absorption to protect you from leakage.
Ensuring gentle comfort and protection, this Japan Quality product will surely get you your money's worth. It is certified by Dermscan Asia as a non-irritating product, making it an excellent option for people with sensitive and delicate skin.
It is made of natural cotton and fiber, which offers a soft and light feeling when used. Plus, it has a quick-dry cover, which instantly absorbs liquid. As a result, it can provide leakage protection and a comfortable, dry feeling with less odor, so you can go about your day without feeling irritable.
Made of pure, natural cotton fibers, this product promises to provide your skin with an airy and gentle feeling during menstruation. It uses Spunlace Technology that creates a breathable and loose structure that won't weigh you down, making it extra comfortable to wear.
Another thing you'll love about it is its top layer is free of additives that can potentially irritate the skin, like formaldehyde, chlorine, dye, and synthetic fiber, among others. With its smooth-flowing design, you're also assured that it will rapidly absorb fluid.
With its special top sheet and anion strip, this product ensures a super absorbent yet comfortable feel for your feminine area. It offers seven layers of protection, including an anion strip that helps maintain a dry and fresh feeling while preventing bacterial growth and reducing unwanted odor.
Furthermore, its sterilized and dirt-free layer ensures itch-free protection. Aside from that, its non-woven top sheet also gives a soft feeling, while its specially-designed back adhesive keeps the pad intact, so you can stay comfortable even while doing activities during the day.
Another environment-friendly option on this list is Haliya Cup's organic sanitary pad. It is reusable and washable, so it can last for two years or longer when properly cared for. This pad is made of organic bamboo fibers that are soft and have the capability to reduce the growth of bacteria on the surface and absorb fluid in the middle layer.
Furthermore, it has two layers of microfiber for solid absorption and a waterproof PUL layer that prevents leakages. It also has food-grade safety buttons to ensure it stays intact on your undergarment. Although this featured pad is designed for moderate menstrual flow, the shop also offers pads suitable for light and heavy flow days.
With its unique InstAbsorb Technology, this sanitary pad guarantees superior dryness that will leave you feeling comfortable and lagkit-free all day! In addition, it has 120 Anti-Leak Funnels that minimize the risk of leakage.
Its leakage protection is further solidified by its Close Fit Center feature, a patented leak-lock design that helps spread fluid throughout the pad and keeps it close to the body for better protection and coverage. It also has a hypoallergenic top cover to ensure that you're free from irritation, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Lastly, it has a Stay Fresh technology that helps control menstrual odor. However, this pad contains fragrances. Hence, if you're particularly sensitive to this ingredient, this sanitary pad may not be the best option for you.
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by OB-GYN Dr, Chona Fabian-Madarang.
For women, having a menstrual period can be the worst time of the month, as it can make us feel irritable and in a bad mood. But whether you're on your period or not, you should always take good care of your private part's hygiene. With that in mind, check out these links below!
Author: Kate Basa
Editor: R. Victoriano
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
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