For years, millions of people around the world have been using our TENA products safely every day. We understand that it is important for you to feel comfortable and safe with the products you use. All TENA products are made from approved materials and we have rigorous procedures and the highest safety standards in place to ensure that only safe materials and ingredients are used and that all products comply with all relevant legislation.
The materials we use in all of our hygiene products have been thoroughly tested both by internal and external experts, such as certified test institutes, to ensure that they can be used safely for their intended purpose and fulfill all legal and regulatory requirements.
To help you understand what is included in our products we have created this overview of different materials. Further down the page is also a glossary.
Are TENA products safe to use?
All Essity´s hygiene products are safe to use for their intended purposes and contain common materials that have been safely used in a wide range of absorbent hygiene products over many years by millions of individuals globally. Raw materials are generally chosen for their ability to absorb and retain fluids, avoid leakage and provide comfort.
In addition, we collaborate with EDANA and INDA, the international trade associations for the nonwovens and related industries, to ensure we comply with the highest environmental and product safety standards. EDANA’s and INDA’s members have voluntarily committed themselves to high levels of quality and safety of absorbent hygiene products.
What is in a TENA product?
The table below shows the main materials in TENA absorbent products. They are selected because of their superior ability to absorb and retain liquids.
| Product component | Material | Function |
| Surface material | Fiber material made of polypropylene/polyethylene polyester/viscose. | The material helps keep skin dry by wicking liquid away from the skin. |
| Acquisition layer | Apertured polyethylene film or nonwoven polypropylene fibers depending on product type. | Transports liquid from the surface to the center of the product, where the liquid is stored. |
| Absorbent core | Paper pulp, a combination of paper pulp and superabsorbent polymers. | Absorbs and stores the liquids. |
| Adhesive | The adhesive consists of various polymers and synthetic resins. | The adhesive has two functions: - Binds together the different layers of the product.
- On some products, attaches the product to undergarments.
|
| Backsheet material | Polyethylene film, Polypropylene film, and/or Polypropylene fiber depending on product type. | Prevents leakage. |
| Fastening material | Polypropylene materials | Keeps the product in place. |
| Elastic material | Synthetic yarn composed poly filaments or polyurethane foam depending on product type. | Gives the product a good fit. |
| Print | Ink | Emphasizes the product's shape and function. |
| Release paper | Silicone coated paper. | A paper that protects the adhesive on the back of the product. |
| Single pack (regards certain products) | Polyethylene film, which is silicone coated in some products. | Protects the product individually to promote good hygiene. |
| External product packaging | Polyethylene bags or boxes. | Protects the product. |
Glossary
Renewable paper pulp: Pulp made of wood fiber from responsibly managed forests. The pulp is used in all absorbent products.
Fiber material (non-woven): A thin, textile-like material. The term is used in the textile industry for materials that are neither woven nor knitted, such as felt.
Polymers Large-chain molecules that can be either natural or synthetic. For instance, plastic as well as your DNA consist of polymers.
Polypropylene/polyethylene/polyester: Some of the world's most common plastic types. Used in a wide range of everyday products, from underwear to blankets.
Superabsorbent polymer (SAP): Used for its moisture-retaining ability. Commonly used in absorbent briefs, pads, diapers and compresses.
Synthetic resin: Viscous liquids that harden quickly, making them ideal for binding together materials.
