What is menstrual masking?
A new skincare trend has surfaced!
Quick summary
- Menstrual masking involves applying menstrual blood to the face and has gone viral on TikTok under hashtags like #periodfacemask
- Despite bold online claims that it’s a natural skin treatment full of proteins, there's no solid evidence that it benefits the skin
- There are also infection risks, since menstrual blood isn’t sterile, so it’s best avoided and instead going for evidence-backed skincare rituals
What is menstrual masking?
In a world full of ever-evolving TikTok skincare trends and hacks, one has really caused a stir recently: menstrual masking.
This beauty tip is exactly what you probably think it is.
It’s where people apply menstrual blood on their face as a skin treatment.
But, where on earth did this trend come from, and is there any truth behind the claims?
What are the TikTok claims about menstrual masking?
Most trends start with bold, confident claims about how life-changing it can be to try, and this one is no different.
On TikTok, creators are suggesting that menstrual masking is:
- A “natural skin treatment” full of stem cells, cytokines, and proteins
- A spiritual or empowering ritual that connects you to your body
- A “free alternative” to skincare products
- Something that can manage acne, brighten skin, or reduce inflammation
Some videos show creators applying menstrual blood for a few minutes before rinsing it off.
Others frame it as self-care or goddess energy.
Hashtags like #periodfacemask now have billions of views, which means your teen has probably seen these claims, even if they haven’t mentioned it yet.
Is menstrual masking dangerous?
You may be wondering whether this is a trend to worry about or simply a passing curiosity.
The truth sits somewhere in the middle.
It’s not the most dangerous trend, but it’s also not backed by science.
Here’s what experts point out:
- There’s no scientific evidence that menstrual blood benefits the skin
- Menstrual blood contains bacteria, tissue, and vaginal secretions, all of which can irritate the skin
- Because the blood passes through the vaginal canal, it can carry bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus, which can cause infections
- DIY menstrual masking is not the same as medical PRP (“vampire”) facials, which use sterile, processed blood in controlled settings – but some TikTok users may confuse the two if they’ve never explored this before
Some creators refer to medical studies to make menstrual masking sound legitimate, but these studies don’t involve putting menstrual blood on the face.
For example, one study found that plasma derived from menstrual fluid (and processed in a lab) could help with wound healing.
But this was lab research, not skincare.
Plus, the menstrual fluid was purified, processed, and sterilised.
How to talk to your teen about it
If your teen brings up menstrual masking, or if you spot them watching videos about it, this doesn’t need to turn into a panic moment.
Most teens are just curious, and trends like this spread fast.
A calm, open approach works best.
Here’s how you can start the conversation:
- Ask what they’ve seen: let them explain in their own words
- Keep it non-judgmental: curiosity is normal, and shame shuts conversations down
- Explain the risks in simple terms – menstrual blood isn’t sterile, and it can irritate skin
- Acknowledge the emotional appeal: for some teens, it’s about empowerment, curiosity, or feeling connected to their bodies, for others it’s about exploring inexpensive skincare or wanting a miracle skin treatment if their skin has been affecting their self-esteem
- Offer safer alternatives – you can look at luna’s teen skincare routine or take them to a pharmacist to discuss teen-friendly skincare
This hopefully will help your teen feel informed rather than told off.
Supporting your teen through confusing TikTok trends
Menstrual masking may seem like a brilliant hack on TikTok, but the science behind it is shaky at best, and the health risks mean it’s not something experts recommend.
However, this TikTok trend is an opportunity for connection, which is always a plus!
Why not talk openly with your teen today about what they’re seeing online and help them feel safe coming to you with what they’re seeing online.
And if your teen wants to understand their cycle or skin health more deeply (without turning to risky trends) our app luna is a safe space for learning about periods, hormones, and wellbeing, fact-checked by NHS doctors.
How we created this article:
luna's team of experts comprises GPs, Dermatologists, Safeguarding Leads and Junior Doctors as well as Medical Students with specialised interests in paediatric care, mental health and gynaecology. All articles are created by experts, and reviewed by a member of luna's senior review team.
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