If there’s any time of the month when you should clear a space to take extra care of your body and engage in self-care, it’s when you’re on your period.
Unbearable cramps, back pain and migraines are all wrapped up in the wonderful parcel of getting your period, and yet most of the time we just grin and bear it.
Having a stash of Feminax and a hot water bottle ready for deployment might be your usual method of coping, but I’ve found that taking a bit more time to incorporate certain soothing beauty products can make the world of difference.
Beyond the necessities, these are the beauty products that I’ll always have ready when that time of the month rolls around all too quickly.
Deodoc Soothing Heat Patches, £13
If you suffer from period cramps or back pain, chances are you’ve considered strapping a hot water bottle to your abdomen to get you through the day. A great idea in theory, not so much in practice, which is why when I discovered Deodoc’s Soothing Heat Patches, I can genuinely say that my life was changed.
These heat pads are super thin and discreet, all you have to do is place them on your abdomen or back, on top of your clothes, and let them gradually heat up (I put them directly onto my skin which they don’t advise but I’m a fiend for the warmth and haven’t had any issues as of yet).
Aroma Active Muscle Recovery Balm, £12
Another must-have if your period has you experiencing the same pain as the day after a spin class. This muscle recovery balm gets to work fast, helping to release tension in your muscles, with the added benefit of being super moisturising for dry skin. Win, win.
This Works Deep Sleep Bath Soak, £24
In the wise words of Sylvia Plath, “there must be quite a few things that a hot bath won’t cure, but I don’t know many of them.”
A hot bath won’t just aid in me have a peaceful night’s sleep, but also helps to relieve any cramps and back pain. This bath soak, infused with lavender, chamomile and vetivert immediately helps me to relax and unwind.
Faace Period Faace Gel Mask, £27
Even those with the clearest skin will face the wrath of period breakouts every now and then. For me, I’ll usually get one beast of a spot brewing the week before I’m due on, which is when I’ll reach for Faace’s Period Faace Gel Mask.
I like that it’s a gel texture rather than a clay as I tend to find the latter quite drying on my skin, however it still does a great job at healing angry blemishes and minimising irritation.
Wildflower CBD + Cool Stick, £25
When menstruation headaches strike, this stick is a godsend. It’s formulated with peppermint, menthol and full spectrum CBD oil to provide an immediate cooling effect, and works a treat with period cramps too.
Deodoc Daily Intimate Wash, £19.50
Yes, Deodoc gets two mentions in this piece because since discovering the brand I really can’t get by without. It works with doctors to dermatologically and gynecologically test each product, ensuring they’re suitable to be used on your intimate areas. This wash is gentle enough to be used every day and helps to keep you feeling fresh and clean down there.