Yep, you read that right. Today, many women store the blood during their period and then smear it on their face. You are probably wondering: why, tell me why? Well, that has to do with a bizarre TikTok trend.
Hit on TikTok: a menstrual blood face mask
Does it give you the creeps? You’re not the only one. Yet more and more TikTokkers are promoting menstrual blood as a facial treatment. This is also called ‘moon masking’ of ‘menstrual masking‘ called. It would be the key to healthy skin. Especially women who suffer from acne would benefit from it. However, it is better not to go off with your own menstrual blood.
The TikTokkers refer to a study published in the scientific journal World Journal of Plastic Surgery. It is true that this study shows that menstrual blood can be a source of stem cells that can repair skin damage. However, this is a lot more nuanced. ‘I wouldn’t smear menstrual blood on your skin. In these studies, the blood is ‘treated’, explains Jetske Ultee, research physician in cosmetic dermatology, to News checkers.
“Some people also confuse menstrual blood facials with Platelet rich plasma (PRP),” explains Indian dermatologist Geetika Mittal Gupta in a video on Instagram. “Platelet rich plasma is a clinical treatment enriched with growth factors that not only rejuvenates the skin, but also heals wounds.’ According to her, this has nothing to do with menstrual blood.
Just more skin inflammation
‘If you smear menstrual blood on your skin, it won’t do anything for the health of your skin. It certainly won’t help against wrinkles or aging,’ says stem cell specialist Christine Mummery. Before the blood has a beneficial effect on your skin, it must first be mixed with various solutions, after which the stem cells are separated and washed out. The remaining mixture is then cultured with a piece of skin. Ultimately, the researchers conclude that the stem cells are effective for skin repair. But that doesn’t mean you can smear menstrual blood directly on the skin for the same effect. In fact, it can even be dangerous. Dermatologists therefore express their concerns about the new one hype.
For example, menstrual blood can cause extra pimples and even skin inflammations and infections. Bacteria and fungi can occur in your menstrual blood (without you realizing it). If you down there So have infections, they can spread to all of your skin. In short, this trend could do more harm than good. So stick to your own, trusted face mask.
And remember: be careful with the content you see or read online. Always consult your dermatologist before trying anything new.
Watch dr Geetika’s reel here!