Pearl Regular Tampons (50-Count)
50-count regular tampons. Conventional cotton/rayon blend. Plastic applicator. Tampax is the most popular tampon brand in the US.
How scores are calculated
Materials (40%): How plastic-free the product is — raw materials, construction, and coatings.
Packaging (20%): Is the product packaged in plastic? Is it recyclable?
Transparency (20%): Does the brand disclose ingredients, sourcing, and manufacturing?
Durability (20%): How long does it last? Longer-lasting products reduce plastic waste over time.
This is a rating of this specific product only — not the company. Other products from this brand may score differently.
Last updated: April 6, 2026
Conventional tampons and pads contain pesticide residues (cotton is one of the most heavily pesticide-treated crops), dioxins from chlorine bleaching, and synthetic fragrances. The vaginal mucosa is one of the most absorptive surfaces in the body — chemicals applied to this area absorb directly into the bloodstream.
Why We Rated It This Way
Tampax Pearl contains conventional cotton with pesticide residues and a single-use plastic applicator. The vaginal mucosa is one of the most absorptive surfaces in the body. Organic cotton tampons or menstrual cups are safer alternatives.
Chemical & Health Analysis
Each chemical of concern is broken down below — what it is, where it comes from in this product, what it does to the body, and who is most at risk.
pesticide residues
Conventional cotton in tampons containing pesticide residues
Vaginal absorption of pesticide residues
All health claims are based on published, peer-reviewed research from the NIH, WHO, IARC, and peer-reviewed journals. This information is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice.
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