Why shouldn't you use always pads?

Disposable menstrual pads like Always have been household staples for decades. They’re convenient, widely available, and often heavily advertised as the go-to solution for period care.

But are they truly the best choice for your health, comfort, and the environment? Let’s explore some important reasons why relying solely on disposable pads like Always might not be ideal — and what alternatives you could consider.

1. ⚠️ Chemicals and Irritants in Disposable Pads

Many disposable pads, including some from big brands like Always, contain:

  • Fragrances and dyes that can irritate sensitive skin

  • Superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) that lock in liquid but may cause dryness or discomfort

  • Adhesives and plastics that don’t breathe, leading to moisture buildup

These ingredients can cause:

  • Skin rashes and allergies

  • Yeast infections or bacterial irritation

  • Discomfort, itching, and redness

2. 🌍 Environmental Impact

Disposable pads generate a huge amount of waste — around 20 billion pads and tampons are discarded yearly in the U.S. alone. Most pads are made with plastic components that:

  • Take hundreds of years to decompose in landfills

  • Contribute to microplastic pollution in oceans and waterways

  • Add to the growing problem of single-use waste

If you care about the planet, disposables aren’t the most sustainable choice.

3. 💸 Long-Term Cost

While disposable pads seem cheap upfront, their cost adds up over your lifetime:

  • Average woman uses 10,000+ disposable pads or tampons in her life

  • This can total thousands of dollars spent on products that you throw away after a few hours

In contrast, reusable options like cloth pads or menstrual cups are a one-time investment that lasts years.

4. 🚫 Comfort Limitations

Disposable pads can feel:

  • Bulky or stiff, especially if you have a light flow

  • Hot or sticky due to plastic backing

  • Less breathable, which can trap sweat and cause odor

Many users report better comfort and skin health switching to reusable pads or menstrual cups.

5. 🩺 Potential Health Concerns

There have been concerns about:

  • Exposure to chemicals like dioxins (from bleaching processes)

  • Allergic reactions to fragrances and synthetic materials

  • Increased risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) with prolonged tampon use (though rare)

Always pads and other disposables often don’t disclose all ingredients, which can be concerning for sensitive users.

✅ What Are the Alternatives?

If you want to move away from Always pads but still want convenience and protection, consider:

  • Reusable cloth pads — soft, breathable, eco-friendly, and cost-effective

  • Menstrual cups — reusable, odorless, and great for heavy flows

  • Period underwear — washable and comfortable everyday protection

For example, Nyx Collection reusable pads combine comfort, style, and sustainability.

🌟 Final Thoughts

Disposable pads like Always are easy and familiar, but they come with trade-offs that affect your skin health, wallet, and the planet. Exploring reusable and less toxic options can lead to a healthier, more comfortable period experience — and a smaller environmental footprint.

Ready to make the switch?
Explore sustainable period products at Nyx Collection.

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