When Malaysia repealed taxes on menstruation products in 2018, we joined the likes of Australia, India, and Canada in rejoicing abolishing the ‘tampon tax’. What that means is a boom in the local market for period products that are curated specifically for our needs. Did you know that Malaysia produces a whopping 2.4 billion worth of sanitary pads and tampons yearly?
From non-toxic pads to cups and menstrual underwear (yes, you read that right!), Malaysia’s future of feminine care has finally touched down. Whether you’re looking to reduce waste, alternative options to mass-produced pads, or just a better-fitted menstrual cup for your cervix, we’ve got the low-down on the local brands to shop at.
1. Enya
For those who are rightfully conscious of what we consume and put in or on our bodies, Enya is here to set your mind at ease. The brand itself says it best: Perfect for menstruators of all ages!
With a range of sanitary pads free of fragrances, chlorine, parabens, and toxic adhesive, Enya provides pads made with organically-grown cotton that leave even the most delicate skin itch and rash-free! Enya sets a new standard for sanitary products, from heating pads to pantyliners and overnight pads. Periodt.
2. Joui
Taking a modern approach to women’s wellness, Joui was created to combine the best of design and health technology to bring ultimate comfort to Malaysian women. Noticing that sanitary pads on the market lacked improvement in technology or comfort in recent years, the team set their minds on fixing commonly-faced pad issues.
The result? Period pads made of high-quality cotton and SAP (super absorbent polymer) material, which means you can say bye-bye to leakage and period-related anxieties! With the Cozeft™ technology, Joui pads also help relieve pains, dispel odours, and balance your lady bit’s pH for long-term health and comfort.
3. SweetnCozy
Looking for a more environmentally-friendly pad option? Reusable cloth pads have seen a boom in recent years due to women being more eco-conscious, and a sanitary pad brand that makes washable cloth pads is SweetnCozy. Handmade with cotton and flannel, the washable pads also come with the cutest designs and patterns!
From Lite Liners and Normal Pads to even Maternity Pads, the options are endless, and all you need to do is choose a type and design.
4. Breeze For You
Made in Malaysia with 100% medical-grade FDA-approved silicone, Breeze For You is 100% independently tested and proven safe for vaginas. Born from the founder’s experience of embarking on an island scuba experience for three months, she wondered how she would sterilise her menstrual cup without a kitchen or microwave readily available. Thus, the idea of Breeze For You was born!
Suppose you’re a gal on the go like Breeze’s founder. In that case, look into the Ultimate Breeze Combo, which comes with a cup, a collapsible carrier container, and sterilising tablets that allow for easy cleaning wherever you may be. This easy-to-use option for your monthly cycle makes periods, well, a breeze!
5. Suci Cup
Launched in 2020, Suci Cup‘s menstrual cups are FDA-registered and made in the US with 100% medical-grade silicone. Each cup purchase comes with a canvas pouch, cylinder box, and bookmark. Not sure whether the cup is for you? Suci Cup also has a gentle, non-drying cup wash to ease your transition into the cup.
Follow their social media accounts, where they share tips, tricks, and best practices if you need a little show to see if this is your cup of tea.
6. Cherry Cup
One of the first local brands providing menstrual cups to Malaysians, Cherry Cup offers three special cup sizes for Asian women. FDA-registered and made in the US with medical-grade silicone, the cups were designed with different types of cervixes in mind.
The Mini is most suitable for teenagers and women with low cervixes, while the Size 1 is for ladies under 30 or women who have not given birth. If you’re a woman over 30 and have children, Size 2 will be the perfect fit.
7. Summer & Peach
Worried about leakage? Pull on your period panties and go as you flow! It’s like your regular underwear, except the layers are designed to absorb the excess fluids during your monthly battle. A known innerwear and sleepwear brand in Malaysia, Summer & Peach offers two period panty options – lace (because who says you can’t be sexy while Aunt Flow is in town?) and classic.
Able to hold up to 10ml of liquid, these cuties consist of breathable moisture-wicking cotton layers that keep you cool and dry, with antibacterial properties to prevent itchiness or foul odour.
8. Cotton Mermaid
Made with tested and certified textiles that are free from all harmful substances, Cotton Mermaid period panties are made slim and non-bulky. It is like wearing your usual underwear but with a little extra protection.
Turn your monthly ordeal into something a little less red with period panties that come with a moisture-wicking layer and a high absorbency core layer. Stay fresh and comfy throughout your cycle with period panties that come with a full range of sizes from S to 6XL. If you prefer a period cup option, they have that too!
9. The Hive
A brand that probably needs no introduction, The Hive has provided eco-friendly and zero waste products since 2016. Looking to tackle your monthly fiend without destroying the planet? Well, you can bet that The Hive has all the options available.
Whether it’s cute reusable pads, USFDA approved menstrual cups, or even, yes, period underwear! Looking and fitting just like regular underwear, Code Red comes with an absorbent core of 2mm/.08-inch thick gusset, which translates to an absorption capacity worth two tampons.
