Always

Introduction

Always is a well-known brand in the feminine hygiene sector, primarily recognized for its menstrual products. Founded in 1983, Always emerged from a need for more effective and reliable menstrual protection. The brand was created under the Procter & Gamble umbrella, with a vision to empower women with the confidence to manage their periods discreetly and comfortably. Over the decades, the brand has evolved its product offerings, focusing on innovation and sustainability while retaining its core mission of supporting women’s health and well-being.

The philosophy behind Always centers on breaking the stigma surrounding menstruation and providing products that cater to the diverse needs of women. The brand emphasizes inclusivity and understanding, acknowledging that every woman's experience is unique. This is reflected in their extensive range of products designed to accommodate various flow levels, preferences, and lifestyles. Always strives to create a positive dialogue around menstruation, fostering a community that encourages open discussions and shared experiences.

What makes Always special is its commitment to quality and innovation. The brand has consistently introduced advancements in technology and materials that enhance comfort and performance. For example, Always was one of the first to incorporate absorbent gel technology, which has changed the landscape of menstrual protection. Additionally, Always is also making strides in sustainability, exploring eco-friendly materials to reduce environmental impact. This combination of quality, innovation, and a strong focus on women's empowerment underpins the brand's identity and continues to resonate with consumers.

Signature Products

The Always product line is designed to meet varying needs, ensuring that women feel supported throughout their menstrual cycle. From pads to panty liners, each product reflects the brand’s commitment to comfort, security, and confidence.

• Always Ultra Thin Overnight Pads : Provides overnight protection with a super-absorbent core, designed to keep you feeling dry and secure while you sleep.
• Always Discreet Liners : Lightweight and absorbent, these panty liners offer discreet protection for everyday use, perfect for light days or as backup for tampons.
• Always Radiant FlexFoam Pads : Made with soft FlexFoam material, these pads offer a flexible fit for effortless movement while providing excellent absorption.
• Always Infinity Pads : Featuring Memory Foam technology, these pads conform to your body shape for an incredibly comfortable and barely-there feel.
• Always Security Maxi Pads : Designed for all-day comfort and protection, these pads feature a wider back for added coverage and confidence during heavy flow days.

Materials and Ingredients Used by Always

• Cotton : Cotton is a natural fiber derived from the cotton plant, known for its softness, breathability, and comfort. Always uses cotton in their products to provide a gentle feel against the skin, making it suitable for everyday use.
• Polyethylene : Polyethylene is a type of plastic commonly used in a variety of products for its durability and water-resistant properties. Always incorporates polyethylene in their products to create a barrier that helps prevent leakage and maintain overall product integrity.
• Titanium : Titanium is a lightweight, strong metal that is resistant to corrosion. Always may use titanium in certain product components for its strength and durability, contributing to long-lasting performance and user satisfaction.
• Down : Down refers to the soft, fluffy feathers found under the outer feathers of ducks and geese. Always utilizes down in select items for its exceptional insulating properties, providing warmth without added weight, which enhances user comfort.
• Ethylene Vinyl Acetate : Ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) is a copolymer used for its flexibility, transparency, and toughness. Always uses EVA in their products for cushioning and shock absorption, ensuring a more comfortable experience during use.
• Organic Cotton : Organic cotton is grown without the use of synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, making it a more environmentally friendly option. Always employs organic cotton to offer a softer alternative while aligning with sustainable practices and promoting a healthier choice for consumers.

Things to Keep in Mind When Buying From Always

These issues are related to the supply chain of the brand and need to be taken into consideration:

Water Consumption:

The production of cotton, even organic cotton, demands significant water resources. This high water usage can lead to the depletion of local water sources, particularly in arid regions where water scarcity is already a challenge. For instance, cotton farming in Uzbekistan has contributed to the drastic shrinking of the Aral Sea, leading to ecological and socio-economic impacts on local communities. As freshwater becomes an increasingly scarce resource, the sustainability of cotton production is an ongoing concern.

Pesticide Use:

Conventional cotton farming is heavily reliant on pesticides, which are used to control pests that can damage crops. These pesticides can have severe environmental and health consequences. They often leach into waterways, contaminating drinking water and harming aquatic life. Additionally, exposure to pesticides can pose health risks to farmworkers and nearby populations. Despite organic cotton's reduced pesticide use, conventional cotton remains the dominant variety, contributing significantly to these issues.

Non-Biodegradability:

Both polyethylene and ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) are synthetic materials known for their durability and versatility. However, their durability also means they are non-biodegradable, leading to persistent plastic pollution in landfills and oceans. For example, plastic microbeads from polyethylene contribute to marine pollution, affecting marine life and ecosystems. The accumulation of non-biodegradable materials poses long-term environmental challenges that necessitate better waste management and recycling strategies.

Fossil Fuel Dependency:

The production of polyethylene is heavily tied to fossil fuels, as it is derived from petrochemicals. The reliance on fossil fuels not only exacerbates climate change through greenhouse gas emissions but also impacts economic and geopolitical stability due to fluctuating oil prices. The extraction and processing of fossil fuels contribute to habitat destruction and pollution, compounding the environmental impact of materials like polyethylene.

Energy-Intensive Mining:

Mining for titanium is energy-intensive and often involves significant environmental disruption. The extraction process can lead to habitat destruction, deforestation, and soil erosion. In addition, processing titanium ore releases pollutants, which can contaminate air and water sources. For example, ilmenite mining in Madagascar has raised concerns about the impact on local ecosystems and biodiversity, highlighting the need for sustainable mining practices.

Animal Welfare:

The use of down in products raises concerns about animal welfare, as it is often sourced from geese and ducks. Ethical treatment of animals is a significant issue, with reports of live-plucking and force-feeding. To address these concerns, companies must ensure their down originates from responsible sources, adhering to standards like the Responsible Down Standard (RDS) that promote humane treatment of animals within the supply chain.

Transportation Emissions:

The global nature of cotton and organic cotton supply chains leads to significant transportation emissions. Cotton is grown in one region, processed in another, and finally shipped worldwide in finished products. This expansive transportation network contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, which are a significant driver of climate change. Reducing the carbon footprint of transportation is a critical step toward a more sustainable supply chain.