Vaginal moisturizers help replenish depleted vulvar tissue during menopause and beyond due to lower estrogen levels, providing essential hydration and alleviating itching and irritation while aiding tissue to remain more flexible and resilient. Regular use can ease itching, reduce irritation, and keep tissues more supple for greater comfort and relief.
Over-the-counter contraceptives typically cost $20 to $30 monthly when taken regularly and come as gels or suppositories that you apply using a tampon-shaped applicator or your finger, or in liquid form for external application to the genital area.
Hyaluronic acid
Hyaluronic acid is an incredible versatile skincare ingredient, helping keep skin supple and hydrated while acting as a vaginal moisturizer that supports healthy tissue while decreasing dryness.
Hyaluronic acid can be found in many over-the-counter vaginal moisturizers available today, including gels or suppositories that you apply using a disposable applicator. These products should ideally be applied prior to bedtime for maximum absorption and dissolution.
Hyaluronic acid-containing moisturizers often work better, though if they don’t produce visible improvements it is important to consult your healthcare provider.
Lubricants provide only short-term relief of vaginal dryness; moisturisers on the other hand offer long-term solutions. Moisturizers can reduce dryness and friction with regular use – both vaginal estrogen therapies and moisturizers can be combined. Hyaluronic acid injections offer immediate, long-term relief. To receive an injection from Dr Christelle Santini you must first book a consultation to identify your symptoms as well as treatment areas to be targeted.
Natural oils
Vaginal moisturizers provide relief from pain, itching and dryness in the inner genital area to make sex more pleasurable and increase libido. Some moisturizers specifically tailored for this sensitive area contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin E or aloe vera to further boost its benefits.
Other products, like douches and scented soaps, may irritate the vagina. Users of such products may experience itching, burning or pain in their vagina as well as decreased interest in sexual interplay.
Vaginal moisturizers typically consist of natural oils like olive, coconut and almond oils as well as ingredients like hyaluronic acids, vitamins and probiotics to promote healthy bacteria in the vulva. Many moisturizers are marketed as being non-toxic and safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women to use; gels, ointments or suppositories are applied daily and provide long-lasting relief as opposed to lubricants which may only provide hours-long relief.
Bioadhesives
Vaginal moisturizers are specially formulated to rehydrate tissues and protect them from friction. Available in various forms – such as suppositories and creams – these hydrating agents should be applied regularly regardless of sexual activity; unlike lubricants which should only be applied as needed.
Vaginal moisturizing products help ease dryness, itching and pain during intercourse by improving vaginal wall integrity and making it less vulnerable to injury. While initially these products may cause vaginal discharge, over time this should decrease considerably.
These products should be used regularly regardless of sexual activity. K-Y lubricant, for instance, can be purchased over-the-counter while others are only available from gynecologists and can be easily applied using disposable applicators inserted with long-lasting lubrication provided. In fact, many vaginal moisturizers available today contain no estrogen which makes them a fantastic alternative to hormone treatment options.
Fragrance
Women suffering from vaginal dryness often struggle to find products that work effectively. An ideal product would contain expert-recognized ingredients like hyaluronic acid and bioadhesives; in addition, fragrance- and flavoring-free vaginal moisturizers may also help avoid irritation. Gels and capsule suppositories are both available options for vaginal moisturizers.
The best vaginal moisturizers are non-irritating and free of glycerin, parabens and phthalates – some even qualify as vegan! Additionally, these products can be compatible with natural rubber latex and polyurethane condoms for added peace of mind.
Vaginal moisturizers add moisture and lubrication to the vulva, helping ease discomfort during intercourse. However, they cannot increase libido or prevent menopausal symptoms like VVA; instead they can restore integrity of vaginal lining while relieving itching and irritation.
