Menstrual Masking Is A Rage On Social Media— Is It Harmful?

In the quest for the ultimate glow, social media occasionally dredges up beauty rituals that challenge the boundaries of conventional skincare. The latest to sweep platforms is Menstrual Masking: the practice of collecting period blood and applying it directly to the face, based on the belief that its regenerative properties are the secret to clear, bright, and anti-ageing skin.

While this DIY trend is championed by some influencers as a ‘natural’ and ‘chemical-free’ ritual, dermatologists are sounding the alarm, emphasising that this practice is neither scientifically supported nor safe.

Is Period Blood Good For The Skin?

What exactly is being applied to the face during menstrual masking? As Dr Ridhima Yadava, Aesthetic Dermatologist and Founder of ARTH Skin & Hair Clinic in Gurugram, explains, menstrual blood is far from sterile. It is a "complex biological fluid composed of blood, cervical mucus, vaginal secretions, endometrial tissue, and a diverse mix of bacteria."

The common belief that the fluid is packed with beneficial stem cells, iron, or hormones that can be absorbed by the skin is a major misconception.

"Menstrual blood does contain iron, hormones, and certain cellular components, but they are not present in a form that can be absorbed or used by the skin for any cosmetic benefit," notes Dr Navjot Arora, Consultant Dermatologist at Dermaheal Skin Clinic in Delhi. He stresses that raw bodily fluids are not stabilised, purified, or delivered in a way that maintains safety or efficacy, the absolute prerequisites for any skincare ingredient.

Can Menstrual Masking Be Harmful?

While the claims online promise healing, dermatologists warn that the risks of using unsterile biological material directly on the delicate facial skin are real and medically significant.

1. Bacterial contamination: Menstrual blood contains a host of vaginal microbiota, including E. coli and Staphylococcus. As Dr Aashna Kanchwala, Aesthetic Physician in Delhi, cautions, applying this can introduce harmful bacteria, leading to skin infections, clogged pores, acne flare-ups, and contact dermatitis.

2. Worsening of sensitive skin: For those with existing conditions like eczema, acne, or sensitivity, the risks are compounded. Dr Divya Siddavaram, Senior Dermatologist at CARE Hospitals, Hyderabad, notes that a compromised skin barrier is far more susceptible to irritation and infection from non-sterile biological material.

3. Inflammatory molecules: Dr Arora highlights that menstrual blood contains inflammatory molecules that can actively worsen skin sensitivity and irritation, contradicting the claim that it's a soothing or healing remedy.

Dr Yadava warns that menstrual blood is not a cosmetic formulation and should not be used as one.

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Things To Keep In Mind

The urge to seek 'natural' or 'miracle' cures is understandable, but experts urge individuals to step back from viral trends and choose evidence-based skincare.

1. Rely on proven ingredients: Use dermatologically approved ingredients like retinoids, vitamin C, AHAs/BHAs, and broad-spectrum sunscreens.

2. Seek professional treatments: For advanced results, safe alternatives exist, such as professional PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) treatments conducted in a controlled, sterile clinical environment, not the home application of unprocessed menstrual fluid.

3. Consult a specialist: As Dr Siddavaram advises, always consult a licensed dermatologist when unsure about a trend. They can recommend safe, targeted, and efficacious treatments suitable for your skin type.

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Image courtesy: Freepik

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