These Game-Changing Period Products Will Make That Time of the Month Easier

[Photo by Zohre Nemati]

I can always tell when that time of the month is almost here. In addition to being hungrier than usual (not to mention the intense cravings for chocolate and junk food), I feel 10 pounds heavier, I become more irritable, lethargic, my muscles ache, and then the abdominal cramps kick in—and this all takes place a few days before my period even starts!

When it comes to the menstrual cycle, every woman’s experience is different. Some get horrible migraines or cramps that leave them bedridden, while others deal with digestive issues or acne breakouts. And for some of us, it’s all of the above.

SpaRitual Partners with The Pad Project and Launches Limited-Edition Nail Polishes

While there’s no escaping the monthly turmoil of having a period, fortunately there are many innovative products and remedies designed to help alleviate many of the unpleasant symptoms that come with the territory.

From acne patches and pain-relieving bath soaks to feminine hygiene care items and devices that stop cramps in their tracks, check out our guide to game-changing period products that will make that time of the month easier. Read on to discover and shop:

Cycl. PMS Symptom Relief ($25.99)

Cycl. was founded by a 15-year-old girl who got her period when she was 10 years old and the strawberry-flavored, mood-boosting gummies help with cramps, mood swings, hormonal balance, stress, muscle pain, and more. Unlike other PMS products on the market that target painful symptoms in real-time, Cycl. is a preventative option that should be consumed daily and balances the body daily so that PMS symptoms are less painful and more manageable when your cycle begins. 50% of profits go to provide period underwear and education to young girls in Kenya.

De Lune Period Rescue Kit ($45)

This power duo works better together to help give you natural cycle relief. With high-potency natural ingredients, these supplements optimize menstrual health all month long. Steady Mood provides daily targeted herbal and nutritional relief for mood-related PMS symptoms, while Cramp Aid liquid capsules offer targeted period cramp and discomfort relief. Vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO.

Elix Cycle Balance ($122.40/3-month bundle)

Elix offers a unique approach to hormonal imbalance and menstrual symptoms by creating a personalized formula that is specifically designed for you. Simply complete the online Elix Health Assessment in 10 minutes to discover your underlying imbalance and personalized organic herbal blend, which will be sent to you before each cycle so that you can begin healing at the root. Cycle Balance can be mixed into your favorite drink, smoothie, yogurt or oatmeal. Natural healing takes time, but many start to feel relief after just three cycles.

ENUF Period Cycle Support Suppositories — Day & Night Duo ($48)

These CBD suppositories help to ease discomfort and inflammation, support pleasure, and encourage deep sleep. Made with certified organic cocoa butter and 100mg of full-spectrum CBD derived from USDA-certified organically-grown hemp extract. Set includes one pack of Day Suppositories and one pack of Night Suppositories. Can be inserted vaginally or rectally for menstrual support or for pleasure.

Faace Period Faace Mask ($35)

Featuring hyaluronic acid, this face mask helps soothe inflammation and improves the appearance of sun damage, while lavender provides antiseptic properties, helps balance hormonal skin, and smells amazing. Clary sage prevents bacteria from spreading, zinc normalizes sebum production, and white willow provides a potent dose of salicin—a derivative of salicylic acid that allows for new and improved cell turnover. Can be used as a priming moisturizer before applying make-up or layered on as a face mask.

FLO PMS Gummy Vitamins ($30)

Formulated from ingredients that have been traditionally used to help alleviate cramps, bloating, hormonal acne, and mood-swings, these gummies send PMS symptoms packing. Chasteberry has been shown to decrease symptoms of PMS in up to 93% of women, while vitamin B6 has been shown to reduce a broad range of PMS symptoms, most notably pre-menstrual depression. Dong Quai relieves cramps, balances estrogen levels, and supports the nervous system to ease anxiety and boost energy. Vegan, cruelty-free, gluten-free, and non-GMO. Includes 60 gummies (30-day supply).

HUM Nutrition Moody Bird PMS Support Supplement ($25)

This plant-based dietary supplement features a unique formula that works to relieve discomfort associated with PMS like cramping and muscle soreness. It also promotes clear skin through regulating hormonal breakouts. Ingredients include chasteberry, which increases the flow of luteinizing hormone to increase progesterone during the luteal phase, helping to reduce PMS symptoms; along with Dong Quai and magnesium stearate.

Love Wellness #MoodPills ($24.99)

Lift your spirits in a natural and organic way with these supplements, which are to be taken twice daily for maximum feel-good effects. They contain combined powerful mood-enhancing ingredients like organic St. John's Wort (which treats mild depression), organic gingko leaf (to address depression, anxiety, and energy), vitamin B6, organic chasteberry (to ease symptoms of PMS and PMDD), and GABA to keep you feeling steady all month long.

Mighty Patch Micropoint for Blemishes ($12.99)

Micropoint is designed to tackle early-stage pimples—those “unpoppable” ones that aren’t quite a whitehead. Each patch has 173 pyramid-shaped micropoint needles that have an ultra-fine tip and are pain-free. Loaded with acne-fighting ingredients, the 18 millimeters patches have enough coverage to take down any size pimple. Ingredients include salicylic acid to unclog pores, totarol to stop bacteria from spreading, beta glucan to calm upset skin, and hyaluronic acid for hydration.

Modibodi Detachable Bikini ($24)

Designed for when you need to change discreetly, quickly, and easily with minimal fuss, this detachable bikini bottom fits and wears like regular underwear, providing additional protection during that time of the month. It has a hook and eye closure on each side, is made from a soft and stretchy fabric blend, and sits on the hip for a safe, snug fit. 

Breathable Modifier Technology™ features a super slim (3mm), super absorbent, stain and bacteria-fighting lining for modern periods, bladder leaks, and discharge. You can skip or reduce your use of disposable pads, liners, and tampons with this stylish and comfortable replacement that can be machine washed. For a moderate to heavy flow. Check out Modibodi’s other period underwear styles here.

Native Atlas Misuli Circulation Soak ($18)

Featuring the therapeutic power of mustard, which has been used for centuries to treat common ailments, this relaxing soak include Epsom salts to reduce inflammation, fight illness, and elevate the mood. Eucalyptus cleanses skin and promotes healthy breathing, while rejuvenating the mind and body. Add to a warm bath and soak for 10 to 15 minutes. Can also be used as a hand or foot soak.

Odacite Mood Cleansing Ayurvedic Bath Soak ($24)

This luxurious Ayurvedic bath soak is formulated with detoxifying Himalayan crystal salt and moisturizing oils infused with invigorating grapefruit and lemongrass to uplift the mind, body, and spirit. The salt works to detoxify the body and energy field with more than 84 essential oils that melt away the stress from the day, while almond and jojoba oil effortlessly moisturize devitalized skin. The characteristic blue hue of the bath soak comes from macerated turmeric, holy basil, neem, grapefruit, and aloe vera that when combined can help eliminate pollutants and impurities that degrade both mood and skin. 

Ovira ($119)

By using pulse therapy, Ovira is an FDA-approved wearable device that stimulates the nerves and stops your period pain instantly, providing instant drug-free pain relief. It uses transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), a technology that has been around since the 1980s and has successfully been used to manage acute and chronic pain in many other areas. To use, simply place both round Love Handles patches on your tummy or back, then Ovira sends small electrical pulses through the Love Handles, which feel like light vibrations. The pulses then overload your nerves to block pain signals traveling to the brain, giving you instant pain relief! Includes a storage disc and storage pouch.

PanOxyl PM Overnight Spot Patches ($8.75)

These latex-free, hydrocolloid patches are safe for all skin types and designed to help protect skin, heal spots, and prevent picking which can lead to scarring. They’re just a little thicker than some other acne dots, so they protect your blemish better and can absorb more pus and fluids. Each box contains 40 patches in two sizes, 9mm and 12mm. PanOxyl Spot Patches contain no parabens, no fragrances, no sulfates, no dyes, and no latex. To use, cleanse and dry skin. Select the patch size that covers your spot, then apply and leave on overnight. In the morning, slowly remove the patch.

pH-D Holistic Menstrual Support ($24.99)

These supplements promote the reduction of menstrual discomfort, irritability, and bloating and swelling. Unlike other period support supplements, these capsules contain Alpha-GEE®,a patented novel ingredient that is proven to reduce inflammation. Other ingredients include circumin, chamomile, and magnesium to reduce bloating and swelling, calcium to reduce menstrual discomfort, and black cohosh to promote the reduction of irritability and mood swings.

PMS Package ($40)

The perfect treat for yourself or a friend, this customizable package includes a variety of sweet treats, snacks, and other fun items like candles, bath soaks, and beauty products to help make that time of the month just a little bit easier (and we dare say, even more fun!)

Queen V Essentials Kit ($39)

This pH-balanced starter kit has everything you need to take care of your health and hygiene. It cleanses, balances, and refreshes down there so you always feel fresh, The kit includes the following:

• DD Probiotic: Daily probiotic that boosts immunity, balances yeast and bacteria, and promotes digestive health

• V Bar: Rosewater and aloe-infused pH-balanced cleansing bar specially formulated without harsh ingredients

• Swipe Right Wipes: Flushable wipes infused with vitamin E and coconut oil for when you need to freshen up down there

• The Spritzer: Hydrating and refreshing rosewater spray designed to control odor and rejuvenate

Rael Heating Patch for Menstrual Cramps ($6)

These heating patches instantly warm up to an ideal, therapeutic temperature to promote blood flow and help your muscles relax for maximum relief. Formulated with lemon balm, juniper berry, jasmine, dandelion root, and rosehip. Includes three patches.

reVive Light Therapy Poof Acne Treatment ($19.99)

This small portable acne treatment device gently destroys bacteria under the skin that leads to pimples, and reduces potential flare-ups. The FDA-cleared, OTC Class II medical device has medical-grade blue LED lights that reach deep where bacteria live. In addition to destroying acne-causing bacteria, soothing inflammation, and reducing pore size, it also calms redness, stabilizes oil glands, and reduces future breakouts. Available in black or white, and perfect for use at school, at the office, or on-the-go.

Rosebud Woman Ritual Gift Set ($215)

This limited-edition four-piece set includes one of each of the brand’s full-sized flagship formulations in a beautiful embossed pouch. Each formulation was created to nurture and care for the common needs of the tender skin of the vulva and labia, yet can be used on the entire body. The set includes:

• Honor: Everyday Balm - It applies as a balm, and converts to a light slip, perfect for self-massage. Helps to heal, repair, and moisturize skin. 

• Soothe: Calming Cream - Formulated with Arnica, Calendula, Comfrey, and other herbs that will calm redness and swelling. Also helps to cool overheated skin.

• Arouse: Stimulating Serum - The combination of Buzz Buttons and Pepper, along with the traditional aphrodisiacs and adaptogens Damiana, Maca, Ashwagandha, and Suma provide a little plumping and tingle. Use daily for the general health of the skin or in sensual play.

• Refresh: Cleansing Spray - This toner and cleanser has just enough tea tree and lavender (and a touch of hydrogen peroxide) to keep unwanted or excess bacteria out of your vaginome. It also contains soothing witch hazel, aloe, and purified water, and is perfect to take on-the-go. Use after exercise, after sex, or anytime cleansing is desired.

Seedlyfe PMS Smoothie Blend ($68)

This power blend is a delicious and easy way to get the missing nutrients you need for hormone balance and PMS relief! Simply add to your morning juice or smoothie for a healthy low-calorie snack. Relieves hormonal imbalance, hormonal acne, cramps, headaches, migraines, breast tenderness and pain, is rich in iron to prevent anemia, and has antioxidants that contribute to healthy cells and assist in anti-aging. Also helps eliminate extra fluid and bloating, combats moodiness, irritability and stress, boosts the immune system, provides energy and endurance, promotes good digestion, and prevents constipation.

SpaRitual Limited-Edition Nail Polish ($30)

In support of women everywhere, SpaRitual has partnered with The Pad Project to create two limited-edition nail polishes. In the Flow ($30) is a red creme shade (pictured) and Heavy Flow ($30) is a red brown creme color, and both polishes will be available for purchase through September 2020. 75% of proceeds from purchases of the two nail polishes will be donated to The Pad Project to acquire period care products for Alexandria House. 

The Good Patch Hemp Infused Period Patch ($12)

The Period Patch is infused with 15 mg of premium hemp extract, Black Cohosh (a natural remedy to treat hormone-related discomfort), and menthol to promote the relief of cramps, aches, and pains. Discreet under clothing, these state-of-the-art transdermal patches optimize the reception of plant extracts into the body for maximum results. Dermatologist approved, vegan, and cruelty-free. To use, place patch on any venous area of the skin that is clean and dry, and wait 20-30 minutes for effects to kick in. Patch remains effective for 8 to 12 hours.

Truly #Heart Your Imperfections Blemish Treatment Acne Patches ($10)

Treat pimples while looking cute and stylish with these pink heart-shaped spot treatments that are made with hydrocolloid to spot treat and clear existing blemishes. Leave on for a minimum of six hours or overnight. Gently remove the patch and repeat until your blemish has disappeared. Includes 36 patches.

Truly Hemp Acne Patches ($13)

These one-of-a-kind marijuana leaf-shaped acne patches are uniquely formulated with salicylic acid and hemp. While they treat skin with classic acne-fighting ingredients, they also reduce post inflammation and speed up healing. Leave on for a minimum of six hours or overnight. Gently remove the dot and repeat until your blemish has disappeared. Includes 36 patches.

ZitSticka Better Together ($50)

Treat early-stage zits with KILLA microdart patches, then follow up with HYPERFADE to get rid of any dark spots that have been left behind. KILLA’s tiny microdarts self-dissolve to flood the epicenter of zits with targeted ingredients (hyaluronic acid, salicylic acid, oligopeptide-76, and niacinamide) to clear breakouts up quickly. HYPERFADE is an infiltrative patch layered with 24 self-dissolving microdarts that melt within two hours of application, releasing brightening, regenerative ingredients that lighten and brighten any dark spots.

[Images courtesy of brands]

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Kamala Kirk is a University of Southern California graduate and has been an editor/writer for more than a decade. She has written for E! Online, Total Beauty, TravelAge West, Malibu Times Magazine, and many more. She resides in Los Angeles and is a proud pug mom. Follow her on Instagram: @kamalakirk