Feminine cleansers have been specifically developed and tested to have an ideal pH balance that’s ideal for intimate areas. Regular body washes with different pHs can disturb this delicate balance of vaginal microflora, leading to unpleasant odor and even yeast infections.
Many feminine washes claim to be natural, moisturizing or pH-balancing products; however, gynecologists warn against them as these can actually do more damage than good.
pH-balanced
pH-balanced feminine washes are specially designed to support and balance the bacteria levels in your intimate area, to avoid an outbreak of bacterial vaginosis and protect your health by not upsetting this delicate balance. To help support that goal, these feminine care products must not alter its natural equilibrium in any way.
A great feminine wash should also be free from harsh ingredients like sulfates, SLS, parabens and DEA/MEA which could irritate sensitive skin in this sensitive area. In addition, look for gentle options with soothing botanical ingredients.
To use a pH-balanced feminine wash, wet the intimate area with water and gently massage into the skin. You may also use a soft washcloth or cleansing wipe, applying product in wiping motions from front-to-back using gentle front-to-back motions. Always check package directions for specific usage instructions, and don’t forget to moisturize afterwards!
Hypoallergenic
We’ve been taught to believe that in order for our vulva to function at its optimal level, feminine washes and douches are necessary. But that is simply not true – your vulva can do its own cleaning with its own discharge alone – no feminine washes or douches needed at all! In fact, using them could actually compromise vaginal health by upsetting bacteria balance or altering pH balance, potentially harming its overall health.
If you do need a wash, try to choose one that’s gentle on delicate areas and perfume- and fragrance-free. Ingredients like aloe vera, witch hazel and prebiotic lactic acid/inulin will all support your microbiome for best results.
The Honey Pot’s sensitive foaming wash is another great choice, featuring fragrance- and dye-free formulation that contains antibacterial lavender, soothing calendula and detoxifying apple cider vinegar to maintain optimal hygiene and freshness. In addition, The Honey Pot also gives back to community organizations to ensure women can access hygiene products and menstrual care education.
Mild
Feminine wash can be an indispensable addition to your self-care regimen if you’re on your period, yet it should never enter the vagina. According to Alyssa Dweck of Cosmopolitan magazine, using cleanser there can disrupt natural bacteria levels; however, using a mild cleanser may keep things comfortable without leading to yeast infections or other bothersome symptoms.
As a general guideline, choose an intimate wash that’s fragrance-free and free of sulfates, parabens, and phthalates – ingredients which may cause skin irritation – for maximum comfort. Choose instead a gentle cleanser such as Maude’s offering which contains soothing probiotics to promote the unique microbiome of the vaginal microbiome and skin care ingredients which nourish it, such as probiotics that support its unique microbiome as well as ingredients which nourished this brand donates money back into nonprofits that promote menstrual hygiene education and empowerment initiatives! Give yourself what’s best! You deserve only the best!
Dermatologist-tested
Feminine washes have been specially developed to be gentle on intimate areas. Given that genital area contains distinct bacteria and has its own pH balance, it’s crucial that users find a cleanser that respects this delicate area of the body.
Feminine washes should be dermatologist-tested to ensure they’re suitable for vulva skin without disrupting or irritating its microflora. For optimal performance, look for fragrance-free hypoallergenic wash with mild formulation suitable for everyday use – these should all make up an ideal daily wash regimen!
While scented washes may smell nice, medical professionals agree they’re not safe for your vagina. Scented washes can disrupt the acidic balance in your vulva and kill Lactobacilli bacteria that keeps it healthy; opt instead for unscented or lightly-scented intimate wash that contains ingredients like shea butter and hyaluronic acid; Always’ cult favorite intimate wash has been clinically approved by both gynecologists and dermatologists as a safe product to use!
