What Tampons are Safe to Use? A Guide to Non-Toxic Tampons

When choosing a tampon, it can be hard to decipher what is actually safe, especially after the recent study that found dangerous heavy metals and toxic chemicals in most of the tampons on shelf. Even those that advertise being "organic" or "toxin-free" often contain harmful chemicals that aren't disclosed on their packaging. So, how can you tell which tampons are safe, and is there a truly safe tampon available for you to use?

To answer that question -- YES, there is a safe tampon, and it's from Viv! Viv Tampons are made of just 100% organic cotton, that's the only ingredient. No fragrance, no dyes, no heavy metals or toxic chemicals.

SHOP VIV TAMPONS

Viv tampons go through strict testing to ensure they are the safest tampon available. Check out this health & safety report to see the safety protocols all Viv period products go through before being sold to you! 

When choosing tampons, here are the things you should look out for:

Ingredients

Look for tampons with as few ingredients as possible. All a tampon really needs is cotton, and it should be 100% organic cotton. Don't get thrown off by claims like "100% organic cotton core." This often means that there are other ingredients besides organic cotton. Avoid any fragrances, dyes, or titanium dioxide.

Applicator Materials

The safety of your tampon also extends to its applicator. If you use tampons with plastic applicators, check to make sure they are 100% BPA-Free. The applicator is inserted into your body and comes in contact with a very sensitive and absorbent part of your body, so it should be 100% safe as well. If you're not looking to switch to cardboard applicators or applicator-less tampons, choose a safe plastic applicator like Viv's.

Testing & Certifications

If a tampon brand claims their products are "toxin-free" or "sustainable" in any way, make sure they have the testing or certifications to back up those claims (available & easy to find on their website). Tampons (and all period products) should be tested for any harmful ingredients within the tampon, and their biocompatibility (how they interact with human skin).

The most important thing is that you use a period product that you feel most comfortable using. Instead of panicking, know that you are able to make whatever choice feels right for you, and know that there are safe options out there for you that work well, feel comfortable, and are safe for your body, like Viv.