India, Nov. 23 -- Skincare trends have taken a bold, and slightly shocking, turn. Period blood, once considered "impure" by society, is now making its way onto social media feeds as a new DIY beauty ritual: menstrual masking. The trend involves swiping your own period blood across your cheeks for a few minutes and washing it off like any other serum. Influencers are hailing it as "nature's retinol," claiming that menstrual fluid, rich in stem cells, proteins, and cytokines, can boost glow, repair skin, and calm inflammation. And yes, there is some science behind menstrual blood - but not quite in the way Instagram suggests. Research published by the National Library of Medicine found that menstrual fluid-derived plasma can help tissue repair and wound healing. In the study, stem cells from menstrual blood accelerated wound healing, promoted blood vessel growth, remodelled collagen, and supported healthier skin regeneration, but only when purified, processed, and applied through sterile biomedical dressings. "For any ingredient to help the skin, it must be processed, purified, stabilised, and delivered in a way that maintains safety and efficacy. Raw bodily fluids do not meet these criteria and there is no evidence suggesting they have brightening or anti-ageing properties," says Dr Navjot Arora, consultant dermatologist at Dermaheal skin and hair clinic. Here's the part your feed probably skips: the risks. Period blood isn't sterile. Applying it to your face, especially if you have open pores, micro-tears, or active acne, can introduce bacteria and cause infections. Its pH can disrupt your skin barrier, leading to irritation, breakouts, or dermatitis. "Period blood contains bacteria from the vagina, endometrial tissue, discharge, and sometimes traces of pathogens. When this sits on the skin, it can cause irritation, breakouts, and infections," warns Dr Bhawuk Dhir, consultant dermatologist at PSRI Hospital. So, while menstrual masking might be the internet's latest shock-value skincare moment, but for now, skip the DIY period facials. Your skin will thank you....