About the vulva

Things every woman should know about her vulva.

The vulva is the external part of the female genital area — and the most overlooked patch of skin in mainstream skincare. Most products avoid it, mention it euphemistically, or sell harsh products that aren't safe for it. Here's what's actually true about caring for it.

1. The vulva and the vagina are not the same.

The vulva is everything you can see from the outside: the labia majora, labia minora, clitoral hood, and the entrance to the vagina. The vagina is the internal canal. Intimate cleansing products should be used on the vulva — never inside the vagina, which is self-cleaning.

2. Vulva skin is more delicate than face skin.

It has fewer sebaceous glands than the rest of your body, thinner skin, and rich nerve endings. That's why regular soap, scrubs, and perfumed body washes can cause dryness, itching, micro-tears, and disrupt the natural barrier.

3. The vaginal microbiome is delicate too.

A healthy vulva and vagina rely on a specific microbial balance — predominantly Lactobacillus species that keep the pH slightly acidic (around 3.8–4.5). When that balance shifts, you get itching, odour, and increased risk of bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections. Harsh cleansers, fragrances, antibacterial wipes, and douching all disrupt it.

4. Less is more.

The vulva mostly takes care of itself. A gentle, pH-balanced wash with warm water — sometimes a soft cleansing oil designed specifically for intimate skin — is more than enough for daily care. Skip the loofahs, the scented bubble baths, the wipes, and the douches.

5. Daily friction matters too.

Tight underwear, lingerie, workout clothes, dry climates, and shaving all create friction that can leave intimate skin chafed, dry, or irritated. A fragrance-free vulva balm helps protect against rub and lock in moisture without messing with pH.

6. It changes through life.

Pregnancy, postpartum, hormonal contraception, perimenopause, and menopause all affect vulva skin. Lower oestrogen often means more dryness, thinning, and discomfort. The right products through these phases can make a real difference.

The basics of intimate skincare

• Cleanse with a vulva-safe oil or cream cleanser — fragrance-free, pH-balanced.
• Moisturise the external skin with a vulva-specific balm (regular lip balm or body lotion is not formulated for this).
• Deodorise with a prebiotic, aluminium-free option when needed — for groin, under and between breasts.
• Lubricate with a water-based, prebiotic glide that's pH-balanced and free of glycerin, parabens, and silicones.

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This page is informational and is not medical advice. If you have concerns about your intimate health, please consult a healthcare professional.