How to Choose Sanitary Pads for Sensitive Skin

Expert guidance on choosing sanitary pads for sensitive skin.

1. Understanding Sensitive Skin Needs

Sensitive skin in the intimate area reacts more easily to friction, moisture, and harsh materials, which can lead to irritation, redness, itching or discomfort during menstruation. Choosing the right pad involves considering factors beyond just absorbency, such as material softness, breathability, and chemical-free features, to help reduce irritation and maintain skin comfort throughout wear.

2. Why Material Matters for Sensitive Skin

The surface material plays a critical role for sensitive skin, as it is in direct contact with the body for extended periods.
Mulberry silk is valued in this context for its naturally smooth fiber structure, which helps reduce friction against the skin. Its soft, continuous protein fibers are less abrasive than many conventional materials, supporting a calmer surface experience during wear.
Products designed for sensitive skin are typically free from added fragrances, dyes, or unnecessary chemical finishes, as these can increase the risk of irritation or discomfort over time.

Plant-based fibres

Synthetic fibres

Mulberry silk

3. Breathable Design Helps Reduce Irritation

Breathability plays a key role in reducing moisture buildup and heat around sensitive skin. Pads with breathable surfaces and ventilation channels help improve air flow, minimising the risk of friction-induced irritation. Inadequate breathability can trap moisture and heat, leading to discomfort or rash-like symptoms.

4. Absorbency vs Comfort: Finding the Right Balance

Selecting the right absorbency level is essential for comfort. For light flow days, a lighter pad with adequate breathability helps keep the surface dry and reduces irritation. A smooth mulberry silk surface can support this by allowing fluid to move away from the skin efficiently, helping maintain a calmer, drier feel during wear.
On heavier flow days or overnight, pads with higher absorbency and extended coverage are better suited to manage fluid without compromising surface comfort. Regularly changing pads also helps limit moisture buildup at the skin-contact layer, supporting overall comfort throughout the day or night.

5. Fit & Design: How Shape and Adhesive Affect Comfort

Fit and design play an important role in overall comfort, especially for sensitive skin. A pad that stays securely in place reduces friction caused by shifting, folding, or bunching during movement. For light flow days, a well-fitted pad with adequate breathability helps keep the surface dry and comfortable. A smooth mulberry silk surface can further support this by minimising friction at the skin-contact layer as the body moves.
For heavier flow days or overnight use, pads with longer coverage and stable adhesion help maintain position without excessive pressure or bulk. Regularly changing pads also helps limit moisture buildup at the surface, supporting comfort over extended wear.

6. Avoid Fragrances, Dyes, and Harsh Chemicals

Products with added fragrance, chlorine bleaching residues, or dyes can trigger skin irritation for sensitive users. Choosing pads labeled as free from added fragrance or dyes, and preferring materials with minimal processing, helps lower the chance of irritation.

7. Choosing Pads for Your Unique Needs

In summary, choosing the right sanitary pads for sensitive skin involves balancing surface comfort, breathability, suitable absorbency, good fit, and minimal irritants. Materials that offer a smooth, low-friction contact layer are often better suited for prolonged wear, as they help reduce mechanical irritation against the skin.
Mulberry silk is commonly considered in this context for its naturally smooth fiber structure and gentle surface feel, making it a thoughtful option for those seeking a calmer, more comfortable experience throughout their cycle.