Red nail polish and periods: A bold expression of feminine rage

By

See Red Australia

Periods are often portrayed as a nuisance, but for many women, they're a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience that comes with being a woman.

And what's a better way to channel that energy than with a bold swipe of red nail polish? Red nails are more than just a fashion statement – they're an act of rebellion, a symbol of feminine rage, and a fierce declaration of self-empowerment.

During your period, when the world might make you feel less than, red nails are your way of telling everyone to step aside. It's a visual representation of your unshakable determination, your pain, your power. Each brushstroke is a reminder that no matter what the world throws at you, you stand strong, unapologetically, and with a fierce confidence that can't be ignored. So, when your period arrives, paint those nails red—not just for the colour, but for the energy it embodies.

We've put together a list of our favourite red polishes to get your feelings out.

The Arsonist by Mooncat

Shop the polish at Mooncat

Described by Mooncat as 'FROM THE EMBERS OF PERPETUAL DESTRUCTION...comes an appropriately unapologetic shade fit for all the indiscriminate, metaphorical bridge-burners.'

Bordeaux 50 by Essie

Shop the colour at Chemist Warehouse

Essie says 'this dark red nail varnish uncorks a positively intoxicating manicure'. We say it slays as a day three, deep in the trenches vibe.

Scarlett by OXX Cosmetics

Shop the colour at Kmart

A classic red from an affordable range, feel confident with this on your extremities.

Big Apple Red by OPI

Shop the polish at Myer

A nail polish classic by the staple brand OPI is for sure one to have in your arsenal.

Ruby by ILNP

Shop the polish at ILNP

ILNP says 'Inspired by a dazzling ruby gemstone, a bold and saturated red base is perfectly complemented by a brilliant red shimmer that gleams under any light'. We say it's perfect for a day 1 mani that will last the week.

Chili Together by Essence

Shop the polish at Priceline

Cheap and cheerful, this polish by Essence is a must have basic red.

Pucker Up by Sally Hanson

Shop the polish at Chemist Warehouse

Say no more. A showstopper. Get it on ya nails as ASAP as possible.

Crimson Void by Holo Taco

Shop the polish at Holo Taco

We're ending this list with a sickening holo, because rainbows and period rage nails should go hand in hand.

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Explore our database of everyone working towards menstrual equality in Australia.

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Inclusivity note

Within this article, we may use the terms she, her, woman, girl or daughter. We understand that not all people with uteruses who are assigned female at birth menstruate, and not everyone who menstruates identifies as a female, girl or woman. For more information on this, please see our article about the importance of gender inclusivity when discussing periods and menstruation.