Periods are rarely easy, but over time, I have developed a routine that helps me through those days with softness, comfort and indulgence.
Since I became an adult and realised I have free will, my period care routine has become a priority. Periods are never simply “that time of the month” for me. They’re five days of fatigue, discomfort and unpredictable digestive issues. It usually starts with three days of painful cramps.
Even with the one day of period leave I get at work, it takes more than just rest to cope. I’ve had to create a routine that prioritises self-care, calm, and comfort. Before you suggest painkillers, know that I can’t rely on strong ones, and the lighter ones only provide a couple of hours of relief.
This is not a “super-productive on my period” story. On the contrary, my routine is about doing less and being gentle with myself. I let my products do the work while I retreat under the covers. Here’s my intentional period care routine for mind and skin.
Read also: “I left my job partly because of painful periods” — Here’s why we need menstrual leave
Body care that doubles as comfort
Being in bed for long stretches doesn’t mean neglecting my skin. If anything, it’s when I need products that last and feel indulgent. These bath products perform wonders for me mentally because I realised that the better I smell, the less grossed out my period makes me feel. They’re also relaxing, so that’s an extra win.
A soothing bath
The one thing I look forward to most is my bath ritual. I don’t do a full soak; instead, I add Dr Teal’s Foaming Bath for Menstrual Relief into a bucket of warm water and let it soak into my skin before rinsing off.
This genuinely feels like therapy. The formula contains pure Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate), which is known to ease muscle tension and promote relaxation. It also contains chamomile and ginger extract — both linked to calming cramps and soothing inflammation. It doesn’t exactly cure my pain, but the warmth and scent give me a head start in relaxation.
Skin-softening hydration
Straight from the bath, I reach for Dr Teal’s Moisturizing Bath & Body Oil with Prebiotic Lemon Balm. It’s my go-to because it’s lightweight but deeply moisturising — sinking in without leaving me sticky, which is exactly what I need since I’ll be lying down for hours.
The lemon balm adds a calming, citrusy scent that helps reduce stress and promote relaxation, while keeping my skin soft and supple. Since it absorbs quickly, I can still feel comfortably moisturised long after I’ve curled up under the covers.
Comfort in a cream
Finally, I layer on Dr Teal’s Aromatherapy Energy Body Cream with its bright citrus blend of orange, sage, and bergamot oils. The scent instantly lifts my mood while the oils help improve circulation and ease stiff muscles. This is a lifesaver when cramps aggravate my back pain.
Beyond the physical relief, this blend feels designed for stillness: it rejuvenates the body, quiets the mind, and promotes an overall sense of wellness.
Once I’m moisturised, I slip into a silk robe, and my husband massages my back with the oil. The massage, with the warmth of a hot water bottle on my tummy, makes the discomfort more bearable. It’s the cosiest period care routine if I do say so myself.
Read also: For pain-free periods, these are the essentials MCN women swear by
Gentle face care
When I’m on my period, my skin demands gentleness. I can’t stand anything harsh or heavy — not in clothing, and definitely not in skincare. My face feels puffy, sensitive, and in need of comfort, so I use light, hydrating products. The routine carries me through hours of rest, even with the constant cycle of napping, waking, changing pads and curling back into bed. It might look like several steps, but each one feels like therapy.
A refreshing cleanse
I start with Aromer. Ultra Light Water Cleanser, a refreshing water-based formula that clears away sweat and impurities without stripping my skin. With this, there’s no tightness or dryness. I especially love that I don’t have to be in the bathroom to use it; I can sit in my room and still give my face a calm cleanse.
Calming hydration
Next comes the Aromer. Refresh Water Toner for dry skin. Even though I naturally have combination skin, this toner works during my period because lying in bed for hours can leave my skin parched. The formula instantly calms my face, cooling the heat and swelling that I tend to have during my period.
More importantly, it balances my skin without that tight, squeaky feeling toners sometimes bring. Instead, it feels like I’m restoring harmony — a much-needed touch of calm when the rest of my body feels unsettled.
Garnier Even & Bright vitamin C serum
I recently started using this product to target black spots. What makes it perfect for my period care routine is the light scent. It’s not heavy on the nose. I’ve found that the smell of my other vitamin C serums irritates me during my period. This serum adds a touch of glow and brightness, which feels like a small rebellion against the dullness periods often bring to my skin. Vitamin C is a proven antioxidant that evens tone and boosts radiance.
Medicube Niacinamide Capsule cream
There’s something about interesting products that uplift my mood. This niacinamide capsule cream has little capsules in it that feel luxurious. When I scoop them out with the applicator perfectly, it feels like I unwrapped a gift. Very cute!
Niacinamide helps with barrier support and reduces redness, which is particularly needed during my period. It also helps with hyperpigmentation that is more evident during my period. The capsule formula feels fun but also strengthens my skin over time. I like how it immediately livens up my face after use.
Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Hyaluronic cream
I follow this with another product that is built to lock in hydration. The cream with black rice extract is packed with antioxidants, and paired with hyaluronic acid, it ensures my skin stays plump and soft even if I don’t reapply. Which I typically don’t because I’m in bed just trying to survive. It absorbs easily into my skin and stays locked in. I love a product that looks and feels good.
Skin Food Carrot Carotene Relief cream
This is a trusted product I use when I am stressed, so it is perfect for my period care routine. When my face is especially puffy, this is my secret weapon. It contains carrot seed oil and beta-carotene that soothe irritation and help my skin look calmer. I rarely use any other moisturiser after this.
For a final step, my lips aren’t left out. I apply the Lipkiss Sleeping Lip Mask, so my lips don’t dry out while I’m resting. It’s low effort, high reward because who doesn’t love kisses even in period pain?
Read also: Skincare Ingredient Spotlight: Hyaluronic acid and the best products for your routine in 2025
The mental aspect of period care
Beyond products, the real shift is mental. I’ve learnt to give myself permission to stop. To do less and to let my body rest without guilt. Sometimes that means surrendering to cravings; other times, it’s just staying wrapped up in bed with comforting scents around me.
What I’ve discovered is that I don’t need to “push through”. I just have to develop a routine that cushions the impact of pain, fatigue and discomfort. These products might not ease my pain, but they transform the atmosphere around me, and that makes a difference.
My period care routine is simple, intentional, and deeply personal. It’s not a 12-step beauty regime, or about pretending like I’m okay when I’m not. It’s about light, moisturising products with scents that ground me, and a routine that reminds me that rest is productive too.
If you’re building your own routine, start small. Choose long-lasting products with textures you enjoy and scents that soothe you. Most importantly, remind yourself: your period is not the time to power through. Allow yourself to soften, slow down, and take care.
Read more: My slow, extended skincare routine for lazy weekends
