Long-lasting iso-osmotic moisturizers help rehydrate dry vaginal tissues by providing moisture where your body needs it and not forcing or pulling moisture into tissues, which could damage them. They should be applied every three days or as often as necessary.
These products are hormone-free and free from preservatives, parabens and petrochemicals; glycerin provides moisture to keep skin supple; they’re designed to be side effect free.
1. Hydrating Moisturizers
Moisturizers are often neglected but invaluable additions to skincare routines. One type of moisturizer that may go underappreciated, yet provides great support for the vaginal health, is vaginal moisturizer.
There is a wide range of vaginal moisturizers on the market today, from gels and creams that you apply with your fingers to pill-shaped inserts (called suppositories) you put inside your body. When selecting one for yourself, be sure to choose a product with similar pH and osmolality characteristics to that found naturally within your own vaginal secretions – that way your choice will best match up to what works for your own body!
Replens Long-Lasting Vaginal Moisturizer contains polycarbophil, which has been proven in scientific clinical trials to actually change the structure of vulvae and increase intracellular water absorption. Bonafide Revaree Suppositories contain hyaluronic acid which has been demonstrated to increase elasticity while decreasing painful intercourse for women suffering from dry genital tissue.
These products can be used at any time to treat vaginal dryness, not only prior or during sexual activity. It’s best to take three or five applications each week for optimal results.
2. Soothing Moisturizers
As soon as you step foot into a store or browse sexual health products online, it can be easy to be overwhelmed by all of the available products and claims. Deciding what vaginal moisturizers or lubricants to choose can be confusing!
Vaginal dryness is a common symptom in both perimenopause and menopause, especially after cancer treatment, and can become irritating during physical activity or sexual encounter.
Moisturizers and lubricants can help soothe this discomfort. Most are available as gel or cream formulations that can be directly applied into the vaginal area for easy application; two such moisturizers include Replens Long-Lasting Vaginal Moisturizer which comes with reusable applicators or Bonafide Revaree’s box of 10 suppositories to be placed directly into vulva.
Both options are nonhormonal, meaning they do not contain replacement estrogen. As their effects may take time to take hold, be patient and consistent in using them.
3. Natural Oils or Balms
Vaginal mucous membranes can become dry due to various causes and lead to discomfort, itchiness or even painful interactions. Vaginal lubricants and moisturizers offer temporary relief by soothing tissues.
Most over-the-counter vaginal moisturizers are generally safe, though it’s always wise to consult your healthcare provider prior to trying any new product. If your vaginal dryness is due to hormonal changes associated with menopause, they may recommend hormone treatments or medication as solutions to address it.
Natural oils and balms may also help relieve vaginal dryness. Some are designed specifically for use within the vagina, while others can be applied topically to skin around the area. Coconut oil is an excellent, safe, natural option; simply rub into skin or use disposable applicator suppositories – less messy and often cost-effective alternative than creams/gels!
4. Supppositories
Vaginal suppositories – prepackaged gels or creams you apply with a disposable applicator – may help alleviate dryness. They’re best used before bedtime so the product has time to absorb while you sleep, and for optimal results use alongside natural oils or balms.
These suppositories are composed of hyaluronic acid, a molecule that helps skin and tissues retain moisture. In addition, they may contain phytoestrogens – plant-based substances similar to estrogen found in soy, nuts, seeds, and tofu that act similarly. Research shows that eating phytoestrogens may reduce hot flashes and vaginal dryness during early menopause by slightly improving symptoms such as hot flashes.
Personal lubricants are products designed to add moisture or lubrication to the vagina, and can be purchased over-the-counter from most drugstores without needing a valid prescription. They help make sex more comfortable by reducing friction; typically used right before sexual encounters but sometimes throughout the day too.
