The feminine hygiene market is undergoing a revolution. Environmental awareness and households' desire to reduce their waste production also affected these products, which are essential for half the population. A menstruating woman throws away 10,000 to 15,000 protections during her lifetime.[1]...
Another concern that new products are now trying to address is avoiding toxic substances (pesticides, dioxins, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, endocrine disruptors, etc.) sometimes contained in conventional tampons and sanitary towels, and mainly resulting from the contamination of raw materials and manufacturing processes (including bleaching with chlorinated agents).
The source of numerous scandals and articles that have accentuated consumers' distrust of major brands, due to a lack of transparency and sufficient standards, the revelations about the presence of potentially toxic compounds in these products have shaken things up. Indeed, even though the French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health Safety (ANSES) concludes that there are no risks to the skin due to the very low concentrations measured, many consumers no longer want to make exceptions for products that are in contact with their intimate mucous membranes for hours on end.
Shaken by the publication of this data, the market is showing a definite revival and is actively transforming itself, giving pride of place to more ecological and sustainable products. The shelves of major retailers and organic stores are transforming to respond to the demands of women who are now aware of the impact of these products on their health and the environment sold by the millions.
Making these essential items healthier and more accessible has opened the door to this sector – previously controlled by large industrial groups – to young, committed brands that are launching with conviction.
Strong growth that must become more accessible
Natural products represent a growth area of +37,4% in value in the second half of 2019, according to Nielsen Trade Panel. Menstrual cups, an eco-friendly alternative to sanitary towels or tampons, saw their revenue jump by +55,4% in 2019, to €5 million.[2]
The accessibility of these products is also a major issue, when we know that today in France 2 million women[3] cannot afford sanitary protection, let alone the more expensive organic versions. This is why the Grand Panier Bio has decided to sell them at cost price, believing that "access to healthy protection should not be an option."
Manufacturers of ecological solutions at Natexpo
Natexpo will provide a better understanding of manufacturers of eco-friendly feminine hygiene products. Comptoir des Lys, through its brand Silvercare, offers women a whole range of products – panty liners, tampons, cups, menstrual panties, etc. – made from natural materials such as organic cotton. The production method also has a reduced impact on the environment.
For Plim, it's high time to break the taboos and speak out clearly about femininity and intimacy. Its products for periods, small leaks, or incontinence problems are pretty, comfortable, eco-friendly, and economical. Their panty liners and sanitary napkins, made from organic cotton, play the elegance card through colorful patterns. Absorbent panties are available in several models. In addition, absorbent swimsuits, menstrual cups, and many other items for fulfilling intimacy.
Meeting between social business and zero waste, between France and Senegal, ApiAfrica offers environmentally friendly solutions for women's and baby hygiene. Panty liners and pads made from 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton velour and fleece, and Oeko Tex®-certified PUL (waterproof material) are part of its offering. Everything is made in Senegal with pretty patterns!
Lamazuna, one of the French pioneers of zero waste in the bathroom, includes washable sanitary towels and menstrual cups in its range.
The Week'Up stands out with the only foldable menstrual cup, 100% made in France. More flexible than other cups, it comes with its own carrying case. The company, driven by Corinne Boulay's convictions, now also manufactures washable sanitary napkins.
The boom in menstrual panties
Periods are often difficult for women for various reasons: pain, discomfort, fear of leaks, etc. Blooming as Lemahieu intend to change the experience of these periods thanks to their organic menstrual panties, guaranteed Oeko-Tex® Standard 100. Their guarantees: goodbye to leaks (different models exist depending on the flow and they can be worn in addition to other protections if necessary), real comfort and the absence of toxic products. Blooming panty bottoms benefit from patented technology and the "silent" finish ensures the absence of rustling when moving or sitting down.
Bertyne is also committed to its GOTS and OEKO Tex® Standard 100 certified panties, with raw materials from Europe. The products are handmade and last around 5 years (120 washes minimum).
Always looking for innovation, Periodita will present its new product at Natexpo, a pair of panties made from organic cotton (94%) and Tencel containing microencapsulated natural plant extracts, with soothing and anti-inflammatory effects, to relieve period pain.
[1] https://www.consoglobe.com/substances-que-cachent-protections-intimes-cg/4
[2] Iri, manufacturers origin, in HM + SM, Source LSA
[3] Ifop, for Solidarity Donations (2019).