The issue of hygiene of intimate areas is a particularly delicate one. Unfortunately, not many girls and women understand that the most basic knowledge in this area and careful care will help avoid various diseases characteristic of women's health. If a woman does not have the opportunity to discuss this issue with a doctor or friends, she can first take some steps on her own.
Thus, various intimate hygiene products are widely represented on the Russian market in 2020. If before women I had to use my traditional care products for this purpose - soap and shower gels, which disrupted the normal microflora, and felt discomfort, but now the situation has changed. Modern developments have appeared quite a long time ago - gels, creams, wet wipes, and foams suitable for delicate care of sensitive areas of the body. They gently and carefully cleanse the skin, avoid irritation, do not cause dryness and, on the contrary, provide hydration and a feeling of comfort. Therefore, the answer to the question of whether an intimate gel is needed is definitely affirmative.
The microflora of the intimate area consists mainly of lactobacilli. They are producers of lactic acid, which maintains the acid-base balance at an optimal level. Thanks to this, harmful microorganisms quickly die and do not have a chance to multiply in such an environment. Changing the pH level can disrupt the balance of microflora and lead to negative consequences due to the proliferation of harmful bacteria.
Infections and inflammatory diseases lead to abdominal pain, irritation, burning, itching, swelling, and unpleasant discharge. They are caused by stress, poor diet, clothing made from synthetic fabrics, taking medications, and hormonal problems. To identify the cause, you need to seek help from a specialist and not self-medicate.
However, outside of acute inflammatory processes, especially if you belong to a risk group, it is recommended to use at least a self-selected intimate hygiene product that will have a special composition that does not disturb the pH balance. Also, by preventing the proliferation of pathogenic organisms, the intimate gel also eliminates bad smell, which they generate in the process of their life activity. But such drugs have no therapeutic effect.
Benefits of intimate hygiene products
Their pH values range from 3.8 to 4.6, which is close to the standard pH level of the human body.
Intimate gels, creams, foams and similar products contain antiseptic components - extracts from medicinal plants, which successfully fight inflammation and fungi, provide an antibacterial and soothing effect.
Lactobacilli are added to some products to help improve the condition of the vaginal mucous membranes. D-panthenol may also be present, which has a healing effect on tissue.
Of course, ordinary, often chlorinated, water does not have such a range of useful qualities, the quality of which in large cities leaves much to be desired.
How to use it correctly
You should avoid products that contain perfume. It can cause allergies and irritation due to hypersensitivity or individual intolerance. It will be a plus if the chosen product is labeled by the manufacturer as hypoallergenic. The fewer fragrances, dyes and similar elements, the more environmentally friendly the product.
The product foams with warm water and is applied with light movements to intimate areas, after which it is washed off. Cleansed skin should be blotted dry, preferably with a cotton towel.
It is recommended to take a shower with special products 2-3 times a day. If you do this more often, it is better to limit yourself to plain water.
There is also a children's gel or cream, which is recommended to be used about once a week, since more frequent use will dry out the mucous membrane.
Contraindications for intimate hygiene products
Products for intimate areas are quite neutral, but sometimes they should not be used:
- Postoperative period. The soap in the composition will irritate damaged areas. They should be treated with an antiseptic until they heal. This also applies to the period after childbirth, especially if there were tears and stitches;
- Allergic reactions and intolerances. There are thousands of different allergic reactions to certain components.
Therefore, if you suspect you have an allergy, you should carefully read the composition. The most common causes of the reaction are lactobacilli (which produce lactose) and plant extracts.
Average price for intimate hygiene products
How much does intimate hygiene product cost? It is worth saying that the cost can vary greatly depending on the manufacturer, volume, and components in the composition.
The best manufacturers are Lactacyd Femina, Sesderma, SebaMed, Epigen, TianDe. There are also more budget ones - Nivea, Cafry, Vagisan, DeoIntim. You can also find very inexpensive ones - at a price of 30-40 rubles per 100 ml, but doubts arise about them. Both its quality and the ingredients involved in the composition depend on how much the product costs.
It is impossible to say for sure which company is better to buy the product, since everything is very individual and the characteristics of the products differ greatly in purpose. What is praised by some may cause painful and unpleasant sensations of use by others. Therefore, the “trial and error” method is perhaps the only option to find your ideal intimate hygiene product.
The popularity of the products does not guarantee that the products presented will suit you, but they were selected taking into account reviews from real customers who have used these products.
Which company is better to choose a product?
This question also cannot be given a definite answer. The product should be chosen based on information about the composition, the state of your health, individual preferences and a number of other factors - everyone has their own selection criteria.
In general, all intimate hygiene products have rather limited functionality - and provide either a cleansing or moisturizing effect. You can start from which of these properties is preferable in your situation.
Moisturizing gels and creams are recommended for women during a period of their lives such as menopause. Young women can also use them, for example, during pregnancy, in case of candidiasis, colpitis or taking contraceptive medications, which are usually accompanied by severe drying of the mucous membrane.
Cleansing gels contain active ingredients, like other washing and cleaning products, and, in addition, a rich antibacterial complex. It is recommended to use them during menstruation and during active physical activity.
Rating of the best creams and gels for intimate hygiene
When you do not have the opportunity to ask advice from a friend or your attending gynecologist, but you are wondering “how to choose a gel for intimate hygiene?”, You can make a choice based on the rating quality products according to the Yandex.Market service. This will help reduce the number of options when answering the question of which products are best to buy.
The most popular models will be presented below. They belong to different price categories, which makes them accessible to any woman.
The gel is a cleansing gel. In terms of composition, there is something to complain about; it is not completely natural. However, the pH level of the product is optimal; it contains lactic acid.
Volume – 150 ml.
Price – 950 rubles.
Epigen "Gel for daily intimate hygiene"
Advantages:
- Suitable even for children from 1 year of age;
- Mothers speak positively about the results of use;
- Effectively copes with harmful microorganisms;
- Thick consistency;
- Economically used;
- Recommended by gynecologists.
Flaws:
- High price;
- Controversial composition of the gel;
- There are contraindications, they are used as prescribed by a doctor.
Belita "Intimate care cream"
The cream from a Belarusian manufacturer contains aphrodisiacs, aloe extract, and essential oils– patchouli, rosemary, ylang-ylang, as well as moisturizing and soothing components.
Volume – 30 ml.
Price – 50 rubles.
Belita "Intimate care cream"
Advantages:
- Affordable price;
- Many positive customer reviews;
- Gives a feeling of freshness;
- Has a pleasant aroma;
- Convenient to take on trips due to its volume;
- Economically used.
Flaws:
- The presence of alcohol among the ingredients;
- It is not suitable for everyone; cases of itching, burning and allergies have been reported.
A cleansing product with a pine scent that helps keep mucous membranes in their natural state. The composition contains an antiseptic – tea tree oil. Optimal pH balance is ensured due to the presence of lactic acid in the gel cream.
Cost – 250 rubles.
Volume - 300 ml.
Green Mama “Gel-cream for intimate hygiene”
Advantages:
- Good composition;
- Pleasant light aroma;
- Eliminates unpleasant odor;
- Economically used;
- Powerful antiseptic and bactericidal effect.
Flaws:
- The composition contains Sodium Laureth Sulfate - harmful sulfates;
- There have been cases of intolerance to the drug, from itching to swelling.
Product from the Organic Kitchen brand, which produces jars for all occasions. They attract attention due to their availability and, as a rule, natural composition. This gel is a moisturizer containing lactic acid, caring components and soft surfactants. The optimal pH balance of the gel is about 4.
Volume – 100 ml.
Price – 80 rubles.
Organic shop “Gentle gel for intimate hygiene Lotus Flower”
Advantages:
- Convenient to take with you due to its small volume;
- Foams well;
- Economically used;
- Reduces irritation and well moisturizes and soothes the skin.
Flaws:
- There is no protective membrane against opening;
- There is a fragrance, a sharp masculine smell;
- Not all ingredients specified by the manufacturer are present in the composition.
The product is from the Russian manufacturer “Savonry”, which is known for producing truly natural products. It has dual purpose- cleansing plus moisturizing. The key ingredients of the product are lactic acid, oils - peach, aloe, wheat germ, sesame, plant extracts - string, chamomile, and vitamin B5.
Volume – 200 ml.
Cost – 220 rubles.
Savonry “Cream-gel for intimate hygiene”
Advantages:
- There is protection against opening;
- Convenient pump dispenser;
- Economical consumption - the stated volume is enough for 3 months;
- Optimal creamy consistency;
- Pleasant, almost imperceptible smell;
- Free from SLS and parabens;
- Soft surfactants in the detergent base;
- Foams well and washes off;
- Suitable for daily use and does not cause dryness.
Flaws:
- Not all components declared by the manufacturer are of plant origin.
This soap is designed to cleanse the mucous membranes of intimate areas. Recommended for sensitive skin - it soothes and relieves irritation thanks to the action of sage extract in the composition. An ingredient such as allantoin moisturizes the delicate skin of the intimate area.
Volume – 370 ml.
Cost – 110 rubles.
Green pharmacy "Gentle intimate soap Sage"
Advantages:
- Large amount of product;
- Availability;
- Does not dry out the skin;
- Can be used daily.
Flaws:
- Smells a bit chemical;
- It is not used economically due to the inconvenient dispenser;
- There is no lactic acid in the composition.
This product from the Russian manufacturer “Compliment” is intended to restore the normal pH level of intimate areas. Relieves irritation, dryness, itching, burning and others unpleasant symptoms, accompanying pH disturbances. Does an excellent job of moisturizing the vaginal mucosa. There is lactic acid and plant extracts of calendula, chamomile, aloe vera in the composition.
Volume – 250 ml.
Price – 150 rubles.
Compliment “Cream soap for intimate hygiene”
Advantages:
- Availability;
- Economically consumed thanks to the dispenser;
- There are no harmful components in the composition - SLS and parabens;
- Delicate, pleasant creamy consistency;
- Floral aroma.
Flaws:
- May dry out skin if used daily;
- Excess of synthetic fragrances and fragrances.
A gel from a German manufacturer, which can be found both in pharmacies and in Fix-Price stores. Its pH is 3.8, since the gel is designed specifically for girls with a slightly acidic balance. The composition contains natural ingredients - D-panthenol, plant extracts, alpha-bisabolol. They effectively reduce inflammation and help normalize the balance of the intimate area.
Volume – 200 ml.
Cost – 50-350 rubles.
Sebamed "Gel for feminine intimate hygiene"
Advantages:
- Contains no soap or alkali;
- No dyes;
- Optimal consistency;
- Foams well and is economical to use;
- Light, unobtrusive aroma;
- Does not cause dryness or irritation;
- Can be found at an affordable price.
Flaws:
- The composition contains common surfactants;
- The price in pharmacies and supermarkets is greatly inflated.
The product from the famous cosmetics manufacturer Nivea is intended for delicate intimate areas. Thanks to aloe vera, it perfectly moisturizes the skin. Lactic acid in the composition maintains the level of acid-base balance and gives a feeling of cleanliness throughout the day. D-panthenol promotes healing of damaged areas.
Volume – 250 ml.
Cost – 210 rubles.
Nivea "Sensitive intimate hygiene gel"
Advantages:
- The manufacturer does not use alkali or dyes;
- Approved by gynecologists and tested by dermatologists;
- Does not cause dryness with frequent use;
Very gentle product; - Foams well and washes off the skin.
Flaws:
- The composition contains components that may contain toxic impurities, the manufacturer does not claim to remove them.
- Insufficiently concentrated, therefore not economically consumed;
- The bottle cap is difficult to close.
Designed for pregnant women, women who have recently given birth and even infants. The foam contains many plant components - green tea, string and yarrow. There are components necessary during this delicate period of a woman’s life - hyaluronic acid, silver ions, prebiotics, which provide an antibacterial effect and normalization of the acid-base balance of the vagina. The product soothes the mucous membranes, moisturizes well and eliminates discomfort typical during pregnancy.
Volume – 150 ml.
Cost – 250 rubles.
Mama Comfort “Aerated foam for intimate hygiene”
Advantages:
- Affordable price;
- Lots of positive reviews;
- Long lasting feeling of freshness;
- There are no harmful components, soap or dyes;
- Pleasant to use;
- Good bottle and economical consumption;
- Pleasant unobtrusive aroma;
- Can be used both during pregnancy and after childbirth;
- Suitable for children from the first days of life, does not cause irritation;
- Does an excellent job of cleaning.
Flaws:
- Were not found.
A gentle gel from the Japanese cosmetics manufacturer Shokubutsu is produced in Thailand. Distinctive feature the product is hypoallergenic. Suitable for very sensitive skin. 99% of the components in its composition are extracted from herbs growing in Japan. The product perfectly removes unpleasant odors and gives you a feeling of cleanliness and freshness for the whole day. Aloe vera extract fights irritation and saturates it with micronutrients.
Volume – 150 ml.
Cost – 300 rubles.
Shokubutsu “Intimate hygiene gel with curara and aloe vera”
Advantages:
- Suitable for everyday use;
- High quality and natural ingredients;
- Light, inexpressive aroma;
- There is a protective film against opening;
- Convenient to take on trips;
- Very economical to use.
Flaws:
- The composition contains SLS - sodium lauryl sulfate, which is a cheap surfactant used in industry for foaming.
A product from a Belgian manufacturer with a pH value of 5.2 is intended for women with particularly sensitive skin. Cotton extract in the composition makes care delicate and gentle. Lactic acid nourishes the mucous membranes and maintains the normal pH balance of the intimate area. The gel does not contain fragrances, which prevents skin irritation.
Volume – 200 ml.
Cost – 300 rubles.
Lactacyd "Sensitive Intimate Hygiene Product"
Advantages:
- Approved by obstetricians and gynecologists;
- No dyes;
- It washes off well and foams;
- Slowly consumed;
- Does not dry the skin;
- Maintains microflora balance.
Flaws:
- Were not found.
So, we got acquainted with the most popular intimate hygiene products. You can choose a product from those presented or any other, based on your preferences and individual characteristics.
The main thing is to remember that modern woman It is recommended to have a separate product for the intimate area in your arsenal of care products. Gynecologists especially emphasize that ordinary soap increases the acidity of the microflora of intimate areas and can cause a lot of negative sensations, such as itching, irritation, discomfort and dryness.
First of all, this is due to the fact that, as a rule, the intimate area has more low level PH – from 3.8 to 4.4 (while the skin average is 5.5). The environment in this zone is more acidic due to the lactobacilli that live there. In order not to disturb the acid-base balance (which is fraught with an increase in the population of pathogenic microbes), it is necessary to use detergents with low PH. That is, ordinary soap and shower gels with a pH of 5.5 and higher are not suitable. After all, if the environment in this area becomes too alkaline, the number of lactobacilli will drop, which can lead to dysbacteriosis with unpleasant consequences in the form of dryness, itching and irritation.
One of the most important components of intimate hygiene products is lactic acid. It has a mild antiseptic effect, while maintaining the same PH necessary for normal flora.
In addition to lactic acid, the composition of natural intimate means include plant extracts known for their soothing and antifungal (candida-preventing) effects, such as chamomile, thyme, St. John's wort, ylang-ylang.
Regular intimate hygiene procedures using cosmetic products help maintain health and appearance person. Therefore, they must be used.
The benefits and harms of intimate hygiene products
Without taking care of your body, a person experiences severe discomfort. But troubles can also arise if the means were chosen incorrectly.
All this improves a person’s mood and self-esteem.
How can they harm?
Violation of the storage regime of the product, features of the composition and even too frequent use - all this can lead to side effects:
- allergic reactions in the form of redness, swelling, rash, itching and pain;
- exacerbation of inflammatory processes;
- in women, the nature of the discharge may change;
- the appearance of physical discomfort during intimate relationships.
And if any of these symptoms appear, you must make sure that the intimate care product is of high quality and its use does not harm human health.
In what forms are intimate hygiene products produced?
Today, manufacturers offer a lot of design options for hygiene products. The distinction is based on convenience and frequency of use. Some products are convenient for home treatments, while others will help you out during a long journey and help you refresh yourself at any time you need.
Gel is the most common form of release. It is based on a soft emulsion that does not contain alkalis or traditional soap. The gel is placed in a convenient tube bottle, often equipped with a dispenser.
Intimate care soap, although similar in design and structure to regular alkaline soap, is not. The composition is largely identical to gels, but dyes are often added to such soaps, which can be harmful.
Therefore, when choosing intimate soap, it is better to give preference to products of very delicate and light shades.
Mousses and foams were created for sensitive skin. Light structure ensures gentle care. They are produced in bottles, which must be shaken before the procedure.
Wet wipes will help out in cases where it is impossible to carry out full hygiene of the intimate area. This is the optimal solution for those who go on the road or spend a lot of time outside the home.
Women during menstruation can quickly refresh themselves with napkins at any convenient time. When choosing these napkins, it is important that the impregnation contains no alcohol, and that the napkins themselves are woven from delicate and soft fabric.
Deodorant for intimate hygiene is most often produced in the form of an aerosol. As a rule, it is sprayed not on the organs themselves, but on the part of the underwear that comes into contact with them.
The deodorant prevents the appearance of an unpleasant odor, and in hot weather it prevents profuse sweating that can occur on the body. internal sides hips
An intimate cream provides the necessary hydration and nutrition to human skin in its most delicate areas.
In addition, it soothes skin disturbed by aggressive substances and hard water.
Therefore, it must be used after visiting public reservoirs. Some intimate care creams have a special structure and can be used as lubricants.
Rules for choosing intimate hygiene products
In order not to make mistakes when buying cosmetics for intimate hygiene, you need to follow a few simple rules: 
- You need to make a purchase only in a specialized store or pharmacy. A product purchased at a kiosk may be counterfeit, have an expired expiration date, or be stored at improper temperatures;
- The composition of the product is important. Ideally, it should consist of two components: lactic acid and a bactericide. The main thing is that there should be nothing alkaline in it. However, men's hygiene cosmetics may contain glycerin and some light fragrances;
- The shelf life of a good product cannot be more than a year, since it should not contain preservatives;
- Products with a strong odor contain fragrance. Strong and bright color talks about dyes. It is better to avoid using such cosmetics;
- Gels and soaps can contain various medicinal and herbal components as additives that help fight fungi and bacteria. Such supplements include essential oils and extracts of tea tree, calendula, chamomile and sage, as well as depanthenol (converted into a B vitamin) and vitamin D;
- The level of acidity that the product has is important. For the intimate area, this should be a limit of 3.5 to 5.2 pH.
Since the male intimate sphere is more alkaline than the female, products for male and female hygiene differ in composition. This must be taken into account when choosing a product.
Review of the best products for intimate hygiene for women
The choice of cosmetics for the care and hygiene of the intimate area for women is huge. But several gels of different brands enjoy special trust among customers.
This product from the French brand is sold only in pharmacies and large hypermarkets.
This approach to product sales allows the manufacturer to guarantee that the buyer will always receive a product that has been well stored and has not been tampered with or diluted.
The gel contains real lactic acid and a special unique Glyco-Gin complex.
The product is suitable for daily use, but since its composition is aimed not so much at hygiene as at providing a therapeutic effect, it should not be used for more than 10 days every few months.
Lactacyd Gel
Another remedy from French manufacturers is Lactacid. This product is suitable for daily use without restrictions.
In addition, the line of gels of this brand has several directions: basic care, anti-irritation, moisturizing, for sensitive skin and many others. Therefore, every woman can choose an intimate Lactacyd Gel.
The gel formula contains essential lactic acid and special regenerating whey.
Available in two types: balance and gel deodorant. The first option is designed for daily use by women with special problems or those who have a violation of the vaginal microflora due to taking antibiotics or nervous shock.
Gel deodorant is designed for use in more critical situations, when, among other things, a woman often faces unpleasant smell. Both products are suitable for sensitive skin.
Gel Intimate SENSITIVE from Nivea
The well-known brand offers its customers an affordable and easy-to-use gel for intimate hygiene. The product has one drawback - it contains a light fragrance. However, its effect is as gentle as possible, and to improve the therapeutic effect, in addition to lactic acid, the emulsion contains aloe vera and chamomile extract.
List of intimate hygiene products for men
Since the male intimate area has an excellent acidity environment, every man needs his own care products.
Although there are products that are suitable for use by both men and women. Today, manufacturers offer several options for men.
Gel Saugella
The global brand SAUGELLA offers many products for intimate hygiene. Their product, made specifically for men, is perfect for daily use.
In addition to cleansing, it also has a deodorizing and antibacterial effect.
Intimate Natural Gel from Nivea
This is a universal gel that is perfect for both male and female hygiene.
The gel contains fragrance and chamomile extract.
In addition, many men's shower gels have the same or similar composition as intimate hygiene gels for men.
Therefore, a man can use them for any refreshing procedures without fear for his health.
How to use intimate hygiene products correctly
What is needed for a procedure to care for the intimate organs of the body to bring only benefits? Not only select quality products, but also use them wisely:
- Hygiene procedures should be daily. Women on menstrual days should perform them more often;
- Wash intimate area Only needed on the outside to prevent detergents or dirt from getting inside the body. The movements should be from front to back, not vice versa. This is especially true for feminine hygiene, since with the reverse action there is a risk of introducing bacteria from the intestines into the vaginal microflora;
- During the procedure, do not use hard washcloths or sponges. Unless these are special washcloths for intimate male hygiene. The product should be applied to the palm of your hand or to a special washcloth;
- Water should not be directed in a stream. It should flow from top to bottom. The water temperature should be warm, but not hot. The cosmetic product must be washed off completely.
After the procedure, you can apply an intimate moisturizing cream or deodorant to the organs.
One day, on a closed-over-closed doctor’s portal, a young pediatrician asked: “How to properly care for the genitals of a 4-year-old girl?” A simple and seemingly harmless question became the cause of a real holivar. Practicing pediatric gynecologists in the post-Soviet space crossed spears in an irreconcilable struggle. Everyone defended their point of view, denigrating and stigmatizing those who disagreed. Periodically, one of the doctors, terribly far from pediatric gynecology, but having their own experience of motherhood, “threw on the fan”: “But I washed it with laundry soap!”, “But I only used chamomile and a string”...
Without fanaticism!
I threw my hands over the keyboard in indignation to finally open the eyes of all those who had gone astray and... I stopped. Intimate hygiene is, you know, such an intimate matter... In the end, in the historical aspect, a certain part of humanity did not wash at all and nothing, our biological species survived and is actively reproducing, threatening the planet with an overpopulation crisis.
The only advice worth giving is: without fanaticism. Gynecologists most often see problems associated with overly aggressive hygiene measures. Mothers bring girls to the children's reception for whom they “bake”. Moms are worried, moms are worried. They have already tried everything - they bought baby soap, and laundry soap, and bought “Lactacid”, and rinsed it with potassium permanganate, but everything “bakes” for the baby and it even “pains” to pee.
Perfectionism is not necessary, although there are some national differences. Let's take it for granted that in India, Brazil, and Chile, mothers wash their daughters so vigorously that they destroy the hymen. The surviving hymen is considered here a sign of bad education and uncleanliness.
Harmonious organism
Before the onset of puberty, the vaginal mucosa in girls is thin, and the poor microbial landscape can hardly survive on it. Active mothers diligently make life difficult for the microbes that inhabit the vagina. Dryness and burning are common complaints of an over-washed child.
A woman's vagina is a self-cleaning system. The epithelium is sloughed off, the secretion of numerous glands is collected - all this is safely evacuated outside in the form of leucorrhoea without our active participation. Millions of microbes live in the vagina of a healthy woman, and this is completely normal - that’s where their home is.
Normally, lactobacilli dominate in the vaginal biotope. They peacefully “graze” on epithelial cells, eating up glycogen reserves. As it breaks down, hydrogen peroxide and lactic acid are released into the vagina. Thanks to this protective mechanism, the pH is maintained in the range of 3.7–4.5.
Cleanliness is harmful to health
An acidic environment is destructive for many pathogens, but comfortable for lactobacilli. Every time we try to “clean” the vagina with soap, potassium permanganate, herbal decoctions and antiseptics, we grossly destroy the balanced existence of the microbial world.
Various inhabitants of the vagina, taking advantage of the momentary weakness of lactobacilli, are trying to grab a “place in the sun” for themselves, the pool of lactobacilli decreases, profuse leucorrhoea, itching and discomfort appear. “We need to douche better,” the woman decides and buys something “stronger” at the pharmacy.
Douching for pathological discharge is a great way to drive the infection deeper. Douching is not treatment, not contraception, not hygiene, but a kind of atavism. If you have a douche in your bathroom, throw it away now.
Of course, there are completely deviant options. One of my patients used a special brush to thoroughly clean her vagina:
– Doctor, you can’t even imagine how much I scrape out of there!
- Why, I can imagine. Quite clearly.
For intimate hygiene of children and adults, you should use regular warm water. You can boil it, then cool it, then strain it and read the plot three times, but still this is too much. It is important to understand: intimate hygiene ends at the gate. Only the external genitalia should be washed. Vaginal douches, irrigation, and douching are undesirable.
We recommend teaching your child to use both hands when performing hygiene procedures. We soap one hand to wash the perianal area, and do not soap the other hand to wash the genitals with just warm water.
It is advisable to perform the ritual of intimate ablution daily. On “critical” days 2–4 times, ideally with every pad change. Do not use washcloths or sponges. Only clean hands are gentle enough for gentle cleansing. You will need a clean, soft, individual towel, exclusively for intimate use.
Modern means: useful and not
Now the market offers a dozen excellent gels for intimate hygiene - “Epigen”, “Lactacid”, “Saugella”, “Vagilak”, “Ecofemin” and others. Special gels maintain the correct pH, are hypoallergenic, gently cleanse, and have a slight calming effect.
But no matter how good “Lactacid” and other intimate cleansers are, they should be put off until puberty. Gels for intimate hygiene intended for adult women have a too acidic pH. This is, of course, correct and physiological, but the pH in the vagina of a healthy girl is slightly alkaline, so let it remain that way.
Panty liners should be considered a hygienic heresy. It’s time for the one who came up with the idea of calling them “daily” to erect a monument made of pure gold! We have already raised several generations of women who believe that “daily” pads should be used every day. Pads are protection for laundry. They have nothing to do with hygiene. Moreover, by continuously absorbing the secretion of the large glands of the vestibule, the pads leave the entrance to the vagina without a protective mucous membrane. Constant use“daily” can provoke the development of thrush and bacterial vaginosis.
Exceptions to the rules that prove the rules
Of course, there are absolutely healthy women in the world who wash with baby, tar, laundry, dust (underline as appropriate) soap, douche twice a day, wear panty liners and are at the same time blatantly healthy. It happens!.. intimate hygiene is so intimate.
Oksana Bogdashevskaya
Photo thinkstockphotos.com
Everyone knows that a woman’s health depends on many factors. Compliance with the rules of intimate hygiene is one of the conditions that a woman must comply with to maintain health.
For many women, pregnancy is a problem. Alas, negative influence environment on women's health often leads to infertility, as well as the proliferation of various diseases that have a significant impact on conceiving a baby.
It is worth noting that the intimate organs of any woman have a rather delicate structure and are also very vulnerable. The uterine cavity is rightfully considered sterile, and any woman knows what its role is during conception.
In the event of infection and microbes entering the uterine cavity, the process of diseases involuntarily begins to develop, which is quite difficult to get rid of. It is necessary to observe hygiene rules to prevent the formation of various types of diseases.
Hygiene rules
There are several rules of intimate hygiene that a woman should know about:
What is PH balance?
PH balance is a measure of the ratio of acid and alkali.
The proportion is significantly influenced by charged ions, which can be both positive and negative.
The role of ions is to form an acidic and alkaline environment. Acid-base balance is the balance of acid and alkali.
Why do you need intimate hygiene gel?
Doctors insist that any woman needs to wash herself regularly twice a day - in the morning and in the evening, respectively, without using any cosmetics, much less soap.
Cosmetic products are allowed for use, but you can wash yourself with various gels and other products no more than twice a week. At other times, it is better to choose clean running water.
We must remember that microorganisms easily penetrate into the mucous membrane of the vagina itself, as well as the adjacent labia. Such components are important for the vaginal environment. They influence the level of acid-base balance, the preservation of which is extremely necessary for a woman’s health.
Moreover, microorganisms help block the proliferation of opportunistic microflora, from which women suffer in the future. In other words, microorganisms are, so to speak, gates that prevent infection from entering and spreading into the vagina.
By washing ourselves with soap every day, we harm ourselves and remove the necessary protective shell. The risk of infection increases significantly and the woman subsequently does not notice how the diseases begin their active development directly in the vagina.
Due to the removal of bacteria playing important role for a woman’s health, diseases arise that are not so easy to get rid of. The most common diseases are vaginal dysbiosis and. The diseases are accompanied by itching and burning in the intimate areas.
Gel for intimate hygiene will be an excellent solution for ensuring the necessary hygiene of intimate places. One cannot help but pay attention to the composition of the gels available for sale today.
The composition is based on the following components:
What is better soap or gel?
Of course, soap can cleanse the vagina of all secretions that accumulate in this area, and also helps eliminate odor.
When assessing the benefits of gel and soap, it is still worth choosing a gel designed specifically for intimate hygiene. Why? It is better to leave soap for washing underwear and for other purposes.
After all, the use of such a product contributes not only to the formation of dry skin in intimate places, but also to the destruction of the acid-base balance necessary to protect the vagina from germs and infections. It is better to choose a gel for intimate hygiene.
It is recommended to wash yourself with intimate hygiene gels twice a week, no more. The cause of the development of many diseases in a woman’s body is neglect of use. laundry soap, destroying the necessary environment for protection against infections and bacteria.
What's good about the gel?
Gel for intimate hygiene has a number of advantages:
Using the gel twice a week will be sufficient for healthy condition women and the ability to maintain a favorable environment in the vagina in order to protect against unfavorable microbes and bacteria.
Features of the composition
What are the compositional features of the gel?
- Firstly, the gel does not dry out the skin in an intimate area. This is one of the main advantages.
- Secondly, the gel does not wash away the acid-base environment, which protects the vagina from infection and microbes.
- Thirdly, the gel contains herbs, relieving a woman of itching, if any.
How to choose a gel for intimate hygiene?
How to choose the right intimate hygiene gel that is suitable for a woman and does not cause irritation after use?
Types of gel for intimate hygiene
Conventionally, gels for intimate hygiene are divided into moisturizing and cleansing. What is the difference and which one is best to choose?
Moisturizing
This usually happens with frequent washing with soap. As you know, soap helps dry out the skin.
This type of gel is chosen by women who need to moisturize their skin. Of course, the formula and composition of such a product will be aimed at obtaining hydration.
During application, you can soon notice that the mucous membrane has disappeared.
This is exactly what a woman with such a problem needs to achieve. This type of gel contains primarily lactic acid. You need to pay utmost attention to this when choosing a product. The composition must contain lactic acid if the goal is to purchase an intimate hygiene gel to moisturize the mucous membrane.
Cleaning
Cleansing gels for intimate hygiene are designed to remove from the vagina, as well as secretions produced daily by any woman.
Of course, the purpose of such a product, as well as other gels intended for intimate hygiene, is to maintain the acid-base balance during cleansing.
Cleansing the intimate area of secretions, possibly getting rid of the acid-base environment, is necessary for a woman’s health.
When choosing a hygiene product, it is important to choose something that truly cleanses the intimate area, without getting rid of beneficial microbes that perform a protective function against the development of various diseases.
There are as many cleansing gels as there are moisturizing ones. In most cases, there are gels that simultaneously promote cleansing and moisturizing.
How to understand that the gel is not suitable for you?
Often, of course, there are disappointments after using gels for intimate hygiene.
Contraindications for use
Like any other cosmetic product, gels intended for intimate hygiene have a number of contraindications, which it is better to inquire about in advance.
Cases in which the use of the gel is contraindicated:
The best gels for intimate hygiene
In the cosmetics market, women have already identified their favorites and know exactly which gels are allowed to be used without causing any harm to health:
- Intimate Natural intimate hygiene gel from Nivea. This gel is designed specifically for caring for the intimate areas of women. The product contains chamomile, which has a calming function, as well as Bisabolol, whose role is to slow down the development of bacteria. The absence of alcohol in the composition is one of the biggest advantages. The purpose of the gel is to maintain the acid-base balance, as well as moisturize the skin of the intimate area. Gel cost from 230 rub.
- Gel for intimate hygiene Lactacyd Femina. Lactic acid and whey are the basis of the composition of the Lactacid intimate hygiene gel. The main task of the product, like many other similar ones, is to restore the acid-base balance. The gel helps restore internal microflora, and this is precisely the problem for many girls. Price for these products from 240 to 300 rub.
- Sesderma Intimate Hygiene Gel. This product is classified as a cosmetic product with a delicate texture. The product not only helps to gently cleanse the vagina, but also moisturizes and restores the skin in case of irritation and itching. The cost of the product, of course, differs significantly from other similar cosmetic products, but the price-quality ratio really justifies itself. Gel price from 2350 rub. for 200 ml.
- Gel for intimate hygiene Carefree Sensitive. This gel belongs to the category of gentle gels, the composition of which is not similar to many other cosmetic products. We are talking about the fact that the product contains sandalwood oil. Agree that not every intimate hygiene gel can contain such a component in the product. In terms of pricing policy, such a product is quite affordable and, moreover, economical in consumption. This is important for women - quality and savings. The product is suitable for particularly sensitive skin. By choosing it, you don’t have to worry that the gel won’t fit or will cause discomfort after its use. Price from 149 rub.
- Gel for feminine hygiene "Epigen Intim". The product is used for preventive purposes against thrush and various diseases of this kind. Of course, the function of the product is not only to use it as a cosmetic product, but also to prevent diseases that are common today. This gel is prescribed according to the instructions for HPV disease. The advantage is that such products not only perform the function of cleansing and moisturizing, but also prevent diseases. The price of the product is 790 rub.
- Emulsion for intimate hygiene Cleanic Intimate. An easy-to-use product with a dispenser containing chamomile helps cleanse, moisturize and normalize the acid-base balance. The price is affordable from 70 rub.
Epigen Intim
Doctors' opinion
According to doctors, it is best to choose gels intended for intimate hygiene rather than soap, which dries out the skin and displaces the acid-base environment. Before using any cosmetic product, it is necessary to study the composition in order to avoid allergic reaction to components.
To maintain a healthy state of the body as a whole and maintain the required PH level in a woman’s body, it is necessary to use exclusively high-quality intimate hygiene products, as well as follow other rules. Special attention You need to pay attention to the frequency of washing during critical days.