Vaginal dysbiosis: causes of development
Bacterial vaginosis, or vaginal dysbiosis, is a gynecological ailment that occurs quite often in women. In a healthy woman, more than 95% of lactobacilli are present in the intimate area. They prevent the proliferation of pathogenic microorganisms and maintain the correct acid balance.
Vaginal dysbiosis is caused by hormonal disorders, improper hygiene, frequent changes of sexual partners, long-term antibiotic therapy, and incorrectly selected contraceptives.
To prevent irritation and dryness in the intimate area, you should definitely use soap or gel for intimate hygiene. Reviews from experts indicate that such products contain only “soft” surfactants that help maintain and restore microflora.
Ideal acid-base balance
We've all heard that the ideal cleansers for the skin are those with a pH level of 5.5. However, this rule applies only to the skin of the body, and not to the mucous membrane of the genital organs, the pH of which normally should not exceed 3.3. Intimate soap must have the appropriate pH and create an acidic environment, not an alkaline one, as regular soap does.
What are the consequences of failure to comply with such a rule? The fact is that a violation of the acid-base balance is not just an invention of chemists, which means nothing to us, ordinary people. Behind these words lies a tangible threat to health.
Thus, a change in pH level leads to a weakening of the protective function of the genital mucosa as a result of the death of beneficial microorganisms (lactobacteria). This can result in the appearance of diseases such as thrush.
Soap for intimate hygiene maintains the acid-base balance in the intimate area, and thereby protects against possible diseases and discomfort.
Hygiene rules
There are several rules of intimate hygiene that a woman should know about:
- Taking a shower on time. You should not focus on the fact that any woman, girl, girl should wash regularly in the shower twice a day - morning and evening. Of course, it is necessary to allocate a separate towel for intimate hygiene and change it regularly. It is necessary to wash with clean running water without using soap. Many women are confident that laundry soap can be an excellent solution for ensuring the necessary intimate hygiene. This is a very deep misconception of the fair sex. Why? We must start with the fact that any soap, including laundry soap, helps to wash out the alkaline environment, the need for which is very important for the normal functioning of the female reproductive system. Soap promotes dryness of the skin, including in the intimate area. This should not happen, so soap must be excluded from household chemicals for intimate hygiene.
- High-quality products for intimate hygiene. Choosing intimate hygiene products is very important. After all, there are many different personal hygiene products, which contain different components that do not always have a beneficial effect on the microflora of women. Before choosing any product, it is necessary to analyze the composition.
- Comfortable underwear. Many women have already heard about the dangers of thongs and synthetic underwear. There really is some truth in this and you should not ignore such information. Indeed, in most cases, with various diseases (candidiasis, vaginal dysbiosis), underwear plays an important role. It is important to wear cotton underwear to receive the required amount of oxygen to the skin. In other words, every woman needs breathable underwear. When wearing synthetics, infectious diseases are formed, the development of which is facilitated by the fabric of the underwear.
- Eliminate panty liners and tampons. Of course, no one would argue that pads play a significant role for underwear, but not for a woman’s intimate hygiene. After all, the pad performs the function of keeping the laundry clean, but at the same time blocks the flow of air into the intimate area. Tampons also help block the flow of air and oxygen, which has a negative impact on women's health.
- Increased control of intimate hygiene during menstruation. During menstrual periods, a woman first of all needs to take care of more frequent washing and changing pads. Pads, as we know, do not allow oxygen to enter the intimate area, and the accumulated volume of bloody discharge contributes to skin breakdown. This should be avoided if possible and the pads should be changed every 3-4 hours.
Tips for choosing intimate hygiene products
When choosing one or another hygiene product to care for the intimate area, many men are guided by intuition, advertising, a recognizable brand, beautiful bottle design, advice from a consultant, or personal preferences. However, if a man wants to choose a truly useful product, he should consult a cosmetologist or urologist. You can make a choice yourself, but to do this you need to know the characteristics of your own skin.
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When choosing cosmetics, carefully study the composition of the products offered, purchasing only products that are made on the basis of natural ingredients. And for people prone to allergic reactions, it is also important to avoid purchasing products containing alkalis.
It is best to buy the cosmetics in question in pharmacies or specialized departments of the store to avoid purchasing low-quality products, or even counterfeits. Ideally, choose places to purchase cosmetics where you can get advice from a pharmacist or an experienced consultant who knows the features of such a product.
Finally, you should not be embarrassed or worried when purchasing a cosmetic product for this type of use.
Once upon a time, ordinary shampoos and gels came into use, which were also initially perceived as a novelty. Today's society is gradually coming to understand that caring for one's body, including intimate areas, does not in any way affect the qualities of a man. This is necessary hygiene, which means taking care of your health and the health of your partner! Subscribe to our newsletter
Why do you need a separate intimate hygiene product?
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 product for intimate hygiene, which 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 the unpleasant odor that they generate during their life processes. But such drugs have no therapeutic effect.
The best products for intimate hygiene for men
The culture of intimate hygiene in our country is not as widely developed as in Western countries. However, Russian manufacturers are already actively developing a line of hygiene products for the care of men’s intimate areas. That is why every man in our country has the opportunity to choose both domestic and foreign cosmetic products. The main thing is to know the purpose of a particular product.
Soap for intimate areas
Regular body soap is not suitable for caring for intimate areas. Moreover, the most unsuitable in this regard is antibacterial soap, since under its influence both pathogenic and beneficial microbes die, disturbing the microflora of intimate areas. Even baby soap that is considered neutral is not suitable for this purpose, as it dries out the penile mucosa.
Another thing is soap for intimate areas. Its delicate structure and special composition, which does not contain alkalis, but is based on lactic acid, maintains the acid-base balance of the skin, preventing irritation and redness. In addition, such products do not contain perfume additives or fragrances, but may contain antifungal components. However, according to reviews, even these products sometimes cause dry skin in the groin area and cause irritation. True, this applies to men with sensitive skin.
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Gel, mousse and foam
In second place in the ranking of intimate cosmetics for men is gel for intimate areas. Unlike soap, it is much gentler on the skin and smells more aromatic. Moreover, the moisturizing and toning properties of this cosmetic product are much higher than those of soap.
The composition of such gels deserves special attention. As a rule, they contain natural ingredients, in particular extracts of aloe vera, thyme, tea tree, olive or almond oil. In addition, the pleasant consistency of the gel is easy to use and completely safe, as it does not destroy the protective hydrolipidic film of the skin.
However, if we want to care for intimate areas with maximum tenderness and care, we should turn our attention to foams and mousses. Their formula is very similar to a gel, but their surfactants (surfactants) are much gentler, and therefore do not irritate even the most delicate skin at all. In addition, mousses and foams have one important feature - they preserve the natural properties of herbal extracts and natural oils better than other products, which means they are the most useful cosmetic products.
Finally, among all cosmetic products for the care of intimate areas, mousses and foams contain the smallest percentage of “chemicals,” which means that such products are ideal for men whose skin is prone to allergic reactions.
Wet wipes
It is generally accepted that wet wipes are produced exclusively for women and young children. However, today you can find sanitary napkins for men on sale, the need for which is especially noticeable on the road, during travel and outdoor recreation. These wipes are very convenient for wiping the skin in the penis area, eliminating sweat and unpleasant odors.
Interestingly, sanitary napkins contain no alcohol components or substances that can cause allergic reactions or unpleasantly surprise with their aroma. As a rule, they are impregnated with herbal ingredients and lactic acid-based lotions.
However, it is worth clarifying that the use of napkins is only a temporary solution that provides disinfection, moisturizing and cleansing of the intimate area for a short time. Comparing napkins with soap, gels or foams is not entirely correct, because sanitary napkins cannot replace high-quality water treatments.
Deodorants
Many men, even recognizing the need to use special soap and gel, refuse to use deodorant for intimate areas, considering such a cosmetic product unsuitable for real men. In fact, these are prejudices, because deodorant does not scent the intimate parts of the body, but only eliminates unpleasant odors.
It is worth agreeing that the groin area of a man, especially one who spends a long time in a sitting position, is not sufficiently ventilated, as a result of which the air in it becomes musty. Sweat simply does not have time to dissipate or evaporate, leaving behind an unpleasant odor that spreads, among other things, to clothes.
The use of intimate deodorant prevents these unpleasant consequences. In addition, such cosmetics are made on a water basis, which means that its spraying does not irritate the skin and mucous membranes of the genital organ. And considering that using deodorant not only copes with unpleasant odors, but also cleanses the skin, having such products on the go is simply priceless.
Intimate cream
There is another interesting cosmetic product that cannot be ignored. Intimate creams appeared on the cosmetic market relatively recently, but have already gained wide popularity. They have a dual purpose - they moisturize the skin and also improve microcirculation in the tissues of the penis, increasing its sensitivity. In this sense, the herbal extracts included in the cream not only delicately moisturize the delicate epidermis, but also improve erection in the stronger sex. And taking into account the peculiarities of using this product, manufacturers have added components to it that allow it to be combined with the use of a condom.
Miramistin for intimate hygiene
If cosmetics for the care of intimate areas seem too expensive to you, or you are simply embarrassed to purchase such cosmetics, keep a bottle of Miramistin on hand. This medical product, known for its antibacterial effect, perfectly disinfects the skin, removing pathogenic bacteria and relieving a man of an unpleasant odor. To do this, just apply a little Miramistin to a damp cloth and wipe the genitals with it. This product is ideal for hiking and traveling.
But Miramistin also has one more valuable property. The powerful antibacterial effect of this product can protect a man from sexually transmitted infections even during unprotected sex.
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To do this, immediately after unprotected sexual intercourse, you should urinate, mechanically removing some of the microbes that have penetrated inside. After this, you need to rinse the genital organ with warm running water and treat the genitals with Miramistin. Moreover, using a special nozzle, 2-3 ml of the drug should be injected into the urethra and, squeezing the urethra, wait 1-2 minutes. All that remains is to let the medicinal liquid flow out on its own and the treatment can be considered complete. By getting tested for STDs two weeks later, you can make sure that you are absolutely healthy.
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 the neglect to use laundry soap, which destroys the necessary environment for protection against infections and bacteria.
What's good about the gel?
Gel for intimate hygiene has a number of advantages:
- It is worth noting the composition, the effect of which on the female body is extremely positive. Intimate hygiene gels contain components such as herbs, antiseptics and lactic acid content.
- All these three components play an important role in maintaining the necessary environment in the vagina that can protect the genitals from infections and bacteria.
- Herbal extracts contained in intimate hygiene gels help, first of all, to normalize the skin during irritation and itching.
- Antiseptic components have an antibacterial effect, which is important for a woman, but it is not recommended to overdo it with such cosmetics.
- The content of lactic acid is necessary in the composition, first of all, to restore and maintain the required level of lactic acid in the vagina.
Using the gel twice a week will be quite enough for a woman’s healthy condition 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 that relieve a woman of itching, if any.
The lactic acid content also plays an extremely positive role. Indeed, if necessary, replenishment of lactic acid can be achieved through the use of a cosmetic product.
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?
- First of all, it must be said that it is necessary to purchase funds directly in specialized places, namely: in pharmacies and specialized stores.
- Before choosing a gel for intimate hygiene, it is imperative to familiarize yourself with the composition. The most important thing is to study the composition and find lactic acid in the list of ingredients. It is necessary to prevent the development of bad microbes and infections.
- Two more components, the presence of which in the gel will be an advantage, are chamomile and aloe. Such components help relieve tension on the skin.
- Antiseptics are often added to gels, and women may have different reactions to them. If you have already had negative experience in using antiseptics and the use resulted in negative consequences, then it is better to exclude such gels.
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 that 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.
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
Moisturizing gels for intimate hygiene are necessary when a woman has dry skin around the vagina.
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 use, you will soon notice that the dry 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 unpleasant odor 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.
Women's intimate hygiene
Daily care
The first thing I want to talk about is the daily procedures for washing the intimate area. Many people think that this is a no-brainer. I took the soap, turned on the water, once or twice, and came out of the bath clean and fresh. In terms of the sequence of actions, everything is correct, but in terms of the attitude towards these actions - not quite. Let's try to explain why. Let's start with soap. It is not recommended for use for intimate hygiene, since it is incompatible with the vaginal microflora. Using soap will dry out the mucous membrane of the genital organs, which, you see, does not bode well. Moreover, it is not recommended that a woman’s intimate hygiene be carried out using antibacterial soap. It will not only lead to dryness, but will also destroy, along with harmful bacteria, the beneficial ones existing in the vaginal microflora. To perform this hygiene, you should use special products, which we will discuss below. You can buy them at a cosmetics store or at a pharmacy. By the way, a woman should wash herself at least twice a day (in the morning and before bed), as well as before and after intimacy. You can use the special product once a day, and perform all other ablutions with plain water. This is due to the fact that the mucous membrane of the intimate organs is very delicate and even special products can harm it if used frequently. If for some reason a woman cannot use a special product for intimate hygiene, then it is better for her to use baby soap. It can be called a universal remedy that is suitable for any skin. It will not harm the mucous membrane of the female intimate area. As for the refusal of intimate cosmetics, it is often associated with the occurrence of an allergy to it. Now let's talk about water. It must be warm (no higher than 30 degrees). Cold or hot water cannot be used. It is best to perform the ablution procedure under running water. The stream of water (do not make it too strong) should be directed from the pubis down. The hand should also move while washing. The reverse movement promotes the movement of harmful bacteria from the anal area to the vaginal area, which is fraught with inflammatory processes. It is not recommended to direct a stream of water directly into the vagina, as this can cause leaching of beneficial lactobacilli and dryness of the mucous membrane. As a result, the vaginal pH will be disrupted and favorable conditions will be created for the development of inflammation and bacterial vaginosis. Also, experts in the field of gynecology do not recommend using washcloths for intimate hygiene, explaining that they can injure the delicate mucous membrane. Such feminine intimate hygiene should end with wiping. But here too there are some peculiarities. Don't rub your genitals too hard. Simply blot them with a soft napkin or towel. It goes without saying that the wiping product (whether it is a towel or napkin) should be intended only for these purposes. It must be changed every three days to exclude the possibility of the occurrence and development of bacteria.
Intimate hygiene products
Now it’s time for hygiene cosmetics for the intimate area. Today, various products are produced for these purposes, including gels, milks, creams, mousses and the like. All of them can be divided into two types: sexual and hygienic. We will not dwell in detail on the first type, since these products are generally used only to impart a pleasant smell. Let's talk in more detail about the second one, since this intimate cosmetics is intended for what is described in this article. The main difference between these products and soap is that their acidity is as close as possible to the natural acidity of the vaginal microflora. This means that cosmetics for intimate purposes act gently and gently on the female genital organs, moisturizing them and relieving existing irritation. Unlike other cosmetics, intimate hygiene products should not contain too many dyes and fragrances, which often cause allergic reactions. Information about its composition can be found on the label. Also make sure that lactobacilli are mentioned there. They help maintain normal vaginal microflora. Many types of intimate cosmetics also contain special natural ingredients that help get rid of minor troubles. For example, the presence of tea tree oil in a hygiene product indicates that it not only helps to thoroughly wash the intimate area, but will also increase the protective function of the genitals. And the presence of chamomile, calendula or aloe extract suggests that this intimate hygiene product helps soothe the skin and heal small wounds and cracks.
A little about pads and napkins
Panty liners make a woman's life easier in many ways. With their help, you can maintain hygiene in the intimate area and prevent secretions from getting on your underwear. Agree, wet underwear doesn’t feel very pleasant, but everyone will like to feel “dry and comfortable.” But you should use panty liners according to the rules. Otherwise, instead of feeling comfortable, you can get into a lot of trouble. So it is not recommended to wear one pad all day. Absorbing moisture, it at the same time turns into an ideal breeding ground for pathogenic bacteria. To protect yourself from getting them into the genital area, you need to change this hygiene product every three to four hours. It should also be noted that female intimate hygiene is not complete isolation of the genital organs. The skin must breathe, and panty liners prevent this. As a result, irritation, hives and allergic reactions may occur. The only way to avoid this is to take periodic breaks from using pads. Another achievement of our time is wipes for intimate hygiene. They are very convenient for use in those moments when, due to inappropriate conditions, a woman cannot perform the necessary procedures. When choosing this hygiene product, it is better to give preference to those types that contain extracts of medicinal herbs or antimicrobial compounds. However, you shouldn’t get carried away with napkins, much less replace washing with them. Using them too frequently can affect the vaginal microflora and cause irritation.
Hygiene on critical days
During menstruation, a woman’s intimate hygiene should be carried out more carefully, because discharge occurs constantly, and, as a result, excellent conditions are created for the appearance and proliferation of bacteria. And the wrong choice of underwear, humidity and constant wearing of pads increase the risk of infection and development. On critical days, in addition to the obligatory washing twice, it is advisable to find time for an additional water procedure (or several, depending on the intensity of the discharge). If this is not possible, the above-mentioned napkins will come to the rescue.
As for underwear, during this period it is best to choose things made from natural fabrics, since synthetics are airtight. The presence of a gasket also prevents normal air circulation, which can cause infection. Cotton underwear allows the skin to breathe, so on days like this it is indispensable. For hygiene products during menstruation, women use pads or tampons. You need to choose them based on the intensity of the discharge and, of course, personal preferences. Tampons, for example, are suitable for those who love an active lifestyle and when you want to wear tight-fitting trousers or a short skirt. Regardless of the choice of hygiene product, intimate hygiene will not be complete if you do not follow the rules for its use. It is recommended to change pads every three hours, as they can cause bacteria, and tampons even more often (two hours after insertion). The latter reside directly in the vagina, so it is very important to prevent the creation of a favorable environment for the development of bacteria. In addition to the mentioned hygiene products used during menstrual periods, today there is also a special bowl (another name is a mouth guard), which is just beginning to gain popularity in the post-Soviet space. A menstrual cup is a small funnel made of flexible plastic or silicone, into which the secreted blood is collected. You need to choose this hygienic “device” based on the size of the vagina, since the method of its use is similar to the use of tampons. The cup should be emptied several times a day (the number of “drains” depends on the intensity of menstrual bleeding). This bowl can last for more than one year, and once a woman gets used to wearing it, she will not feel discomfort either during work duties or in everyday life. Not everyone is allowed to use the cup. For those who are prone to allergies to silicone, inflammation and other problems of the intimate area, this hygiene product is strictly prohibited. To find out for sure whether it is right for you or not, it is better to consult a gynecologist.
Hygiene during pregnancy
Note that a woman’s intimate hygiene during pregnancy is not much different from hygiene in other periods of life. True, there are some peculiarities here that must be remembered. One of them is a more careful choice of intimate cosmetics for care. It should not contain dyes or fragrances. It is better to choose products that contain herbal extracts (calendula, chamomile, etc.). The second important point is the frequency of hygiene procedures. Since the amount of discharge increases during pregnancy, you will have to perform ablution procedures more often. How often depends on the intensity of the discharge and the health of the expectant mother. A doctor who advises a woman during pregnancy can help with the routine of water procedures. As for sanitary napkins and panty liners, pregnant women can use them. The main thing is that these hygiene products do not contain fragrances or alcohol.
Proper underwear is the key to genital health
Proper intimate hygiene for a woman also includes the correct choice of underwear. The best in this regard is cotton underwear. Choose it for everyday wear, but give preference to panties and thongs made of synthetic fabric only in exceptional cases, for example, if you are going to a romantic meeting. Please note that where the panties touch the crotch there must be an insert made of cotton fabric. If there is none, and you really like this underwear, then panty liners will help make up for its absence. Another important point regarding proper intimate hygiene for a woman: panties must be changed daily. At the same time, try to wash them separately from other things (clothes, bedding, etc.). As follows from the above, intimate hygiene is practically an entire science, knowing the basics of which you can always radiate freshness and cleanliness. However, following all the rules recommended by specialists in the field of gynecology is not so difficult, because they do not require special skills. The main thing is to strictly follow them.
Information from the resource: https://club-mam.com
Which brand of intimate hygiene gel is better to choose?
Careful body care helps to avoid unpleasant diseases, and proper intimate hygiene will create comfort and a favorable environment for the acid-base balance. It is not difficult to choose a suitable gel for the intimate area; the main thing is to know what effect the product should have, cosmetic or therapeutic.
It is also important to study the composition and choose a line from a manufacturer you can trust. When figuring out which company is better to buy gels for intimate hygiene, the leading favorites in terms of product quality were the following nominees:
- Carefree is an American brand founded in 1976. The name belongs to the famous Johnson & Johnson holding.
- Ya Samaya is a Russian brand of products. It was founded in 2013, so it is relatively young, but has already earned the trust of users.
- Green Pharmacy is a line of Belarusian cosmetics. Developed to pharmaceutical standards.
- Kora is a Russian cosmetic line created in 1997. It creates cosmetics for the face, body, and hair.
- Ivomed is a Russian company that produces exclusively gels for special areas. Despite the small scale of the company, the quality of cosmetics is confirmed by international standards.
- Dove is an American brand founded in 1956. It stands out because Dove specialists have developed a unique cream soap formula.
- Lactacyd is a French brand created in 1950. It is exclusively engaged in the development of intimate products.
- Nivea is a German line of popular cosmetics. It was founded back in 1882 and is considered one of the most popular and high-quality brands.
- Ginocomfort is another Russian pharmacy company developing products for intimate hygiene.
- Epigen is a pharmacy product line from Cheminova Internacional. Produced in Spain and of good quality.
Epigen "Gel for daily intimate hygiene"
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.
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 the Belarusian manufacturer contains aphrodisiacs, aloe extract, and essential oils - patchouli, rosemary, ylang-ylang, as well as moisturizing and soothing components. Volume – 30 ml.
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.
Green Mama “Gel-cream for intimate hygiene”
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. Volume - 300 ml.
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.
Composition of intimate hygiene products for men
This seems surprising, but in the ancient world, men widely used myrtle and olive oil, as well as various herbal decoctions to care for intimate parts of the body. However, with the extinction of ancient civilization, this knowledge was lost for a long time. And only in our age of developed cosmetology and pharmaceuticals, men again began to pay attention to the hygiene of their body.
Regular soap or shampoo is not able to satisfy the needs of men in caring for intimate areas. The aggressiveness of such products dries out the delicate skin of the genital organs and leads to disruption of the microflora of the mucous membrane of the penis. In addition, such drugs often provoke allergies, causing irritation in the groin and creating conditions for the development of an infectious disease.
Cosmetic products for the care of intimate areas do not contain alcohol, and besides, they contain a minimum of perfume fragrances. All these products are created in such a way as to disinfect and soften the skin, maintaining natural moisture and maintaining the pH of the skin in intimate areas.
Ideally, a cosmetic product for intimate hygiene should contain:
- soap made from lactic acid. This component maintains the required pH level of the skin;
- vitamin B3, glycerin, as well as natural vegetable oils. They perfectly nourish and soften the skin, and also ensure its normal moisture;
- herbal extracts. They increase blood circulation in the pelvic organs and increase local immunity, preventing inflammatory diseases and having a calming effect on the epidermis.
Now let's move on to studying the best means for caring for the genitals of the stronger sex. Let’s just say that not only a man’s health, but also his psychological state will depend on the right product, because if unpleasant odors in the perineum undermine self-confidence, then fresh, pleasant aromas only increase a man’s sexual attractiveness.
Properties of creams, ointments
Almost all creams and ointments for intimate hygiene contain lactic acid and antibacterial substances. They are added to maintain normal pH in the intimate area. Creams are not intended to cleanse the genitals; they solve many other problems.
There are creams to relieve irritation, relieve itching, and moisturize intimate areas. Many of them protect against bacteria, so they can be used before visiting the pool.
Itching in the vagina often spoils the mood of many. Before using the cream, it is necessary to determine the cause of the itching. It could be:
- uncomfortable clothing made from synthetic fabrics;
- allergic rashes;
- venereal diseases;
- dysbacteriosis or other disorders of the vaginal microflora;
- diabetes or other diseases.
If you start using anti-itch creams on your own without finding out the reasons for its occurrence, you can start the disease. Therefore, it is advisable to use the products after consulting a doctor . If there are no alarming signs of the disease, then a properly selected drug will help get rid of itching. Some creams eliminate irritation after sexual intercourse.
Soothing and stimulating gels
After removing unwanted hair in the vaginal area, many women face the problem of irritation and redness of the skin. Products with a calming effect will help stimulate the regeneration process of the skin and have an antiseptic effect.
Such cosmetics usually contain sea buckthorn oil, rosemary oil, aloe vera extract, and allantoin. These creams have a delicate structure, are quickly absorbed into the skin, and do not leave marks on the laundry. You can use such soothing and moisturizing products daily.
Among products for the intimate area, there are creams that increase sexual tone. They contain substances such as sandalwood, ylang-ylang, rosemary, ginger, patchouli, which increase sensitivity and sexual desire. They also have antibacterial properties and help prevent inflammatory processes.
Vaginal moisturizers
One of the causes of vaginal dryness is dyshormonal disorders of the genital organs. This is observed with a reduction in the amount of hormones, dysbiosis, inflammatory processes, and the use of certain contraceptive drugs. A dry vagina and discomfort during sexual intercourse cause anxiety not only for the woman, but also for her partner.
There are moisturizers for moderate to severe vaginal dryness.
If the cause is dishormonal disorders, then the doctor should select the cream, supplementing it with hormonal drugs. For normal dryness not caused by disorders in the body, you can choose the cream yourself. It is best to use a lubricant for these purposes. It helps restore thinned vaginal walls and eliminate microcracks. Lubricants have a balanced composition, which includes vegetable oils and fats.
Many remedies can also be used by a woman’s sexual partner. Moisturizing and lubricating with antibacterial drugs will help avoid unpleasant consequences. You need to know that many creams and gels destroy latex, and this reduces the contraceptive effect.
Caring for the tender area during menopause
The most difficult period in a woman's life is menopause. Hormonal changes in the body create many inconveniences. One of them is vaginal dryness. Many women put up with this, but this is not worth doing. Intimacy products for dry vagina can solve this problem.
Some creams and gels help relieve itching that occurs with vaginal dryness and prevent mild urinary incontinence. They can be used not only before sexual intercourse, they will also protect before visiting the pool or swimming in the sea.
When purchasing a product, you should pay attention to the composition of the drug. It should contain:
- lactic acid;
- medicinal plants;
- fats;
- vitamins E, antibacterial substances;
- panthenol.
For women who are highly sensitive to plant components, it is better to choose a cream with aloe vera extract. Fragrances and dyes should be excluded from the composition of the drug. The acid-base balance should be neutral.
In addition to creams, there are moisturizing gels designed for the same purposes. Gel is a liquid emulsion that is easy to use; it moisturizes the entire surface of the intimate area well and efficiently.
Almost all gels, as well as creams, contain lactic acid and herbal ingredients. They can be applied not only to the surface of the genital organs, but also inside. A special applicator is usually included for this purpose. Some products have hormonal additives. Special gel lubricants are also produced. With their help, natural lubrication is imitated during sexual intercourse, which makes it much easier.
Please note that all creams and gels that do not contain hormonal drugs do not eliminate the cause of dryness. They are intended only to provide comfortable conditions. Gels with hormone preparations should only be prescribed by a gynecologist.
Various gels, oils, and creams for intimate hygiene help protect against harmful microorganisms and maintain cleanliness and health in the genitals. Which one is better, this is all tested in practice.
Vagilak product
Vagilak gel can be used as part of complex therapy for gynecological pathologies and to eliminate vaginal dryness. The product contains lactic acid, potassium sorbate, propylene glycol, hydroxyethylcellulose and purified water.
In the package you can find a special applicator for introducing the gel into the vagina. In addition, the product can simply be applied to the external genitalia.
Vagilak gel is often recommended for use by women during menopause, when various unpleasant sensations occur in the intimate area due to hormonal changes. According to reviews, the product can quickly eliminate dryness, irritation, and itching. For such symptoms, the gel can be used daily. Thanks to the presence of lactic acid, the product maintains healthy microflora in the vagina.
Oil for feminine intimate hygiene
Currently, not many women know this product. It is worth paying attention to if you are prone to irritation and dryness in the intimate area. Oil for intimate hygiene can be used daily. The product helps cleanse and moisturize the delicate area.
An obligatory component in the composition is the same lactic acid, which helps form a protective barrier and prevent the development of dysbiosis. Healthy vaginal microflora is the key to a woman’s well-being.
About acid balance
A feeling of discomfort in the intimate area indicates that the hygiene product has been selected incorrectly; ideally, an intimate hygiene product should have the following properties:
- the composition should contain only natural ingredients;
- the gel should support natural microflora.
Its pH should be acidic. The acidic environment in the delicate area is maintained by lactic acid, which should be part of the gel. When using regular soap, the balance shifts to the alkaline side (soap is inherently alkaline), and this can lead to thrush.
MiKo oil "Lavender"
The intimate hygiene oil “Lavender” from the MiKo company has earned many positive recommendations. The manufacturer claims that it does not use harmful substances in the process of creating products. Natural ingredients are selected by specialists very carefully.
One of the popular products of this brand is intimate oil. The product contains hydrophilic oil, lavender, olive, tamanu and tea tree oil. The effect of these components is enhanced by extracts of chamomile, oak bark, sage, calendula and walnut.
The cosmetic product allows you to carefully clean the intimate areas of the body, maintain the correct level of acidity and eliminate unpleasant sensations in the form of itching and burning. The product has a bactericidal and anti-inflammatory effect.
The best inexpensive gels for intimate hygiene
The most affordable include budget intimate hygiene products. This section includes three nominees who have earned the right to be called the best due to their high quality at a low price.
All of them are universal, suitable for everyday use. The composition of intimate hygiene gel is varied, plus each product has its own advantages and disadvantages, which are recommended to be taken into account when purchasing.
Carefree Aloe
The discreet bottle looks quite simple, without attracting attention. However, this product has its own characteristics - matte plastic does not allow the sun to pass through, but the small print will not allow you to read the purpose of the product. The consistency of the gel is quite thick, thanks to which consumption is minimal, so a volume of 200 ml is enough for about a year. Considering the price, this is a very economical product suitable for almost any skin.
Advantages
- High pH;
- Neutral odor;
- Foams profusely;
- Does not contain soap;
- Low price.
Flaws
- Inconvenient dispenser;
- Not recommended for dry skin.
Carefree gel leaves a feeling of cleanliness, is easy to rinse off and, most importantly, does not disturb the natural pH level. However, it is better not to use it for dry skin, as it has an alkaline composition.
I'm the Most Intimate
This is a gel with a creamy texture for intimate use. Suitable for absolutely any skin, gently cares, does not contain potent components. Stylish, feminine packaging, a convenient dispenser, and a light, unobtrusive floral aroma are very popular with users.
Reviews of the intimate hygiene gel I Am the Most are quite varied, but all women note that the product is able to relieve irritation. Intimate foams well and is easily washed off without leaving a film or causing a sticky feeling.
Advantages
- Moisturizes;
- Suitable for women with sensitive skin;
- Can be used during pregnancy;
- D-Panthenol in the composition;
- Large volume.
Flaws
- Not economical consumption;
- Contains sulfates.
The consistency of the product is not gel-like. It is very liquid, so to get enough gel you need to press the dispenser several times.
The best gels for intimate hygiene with lactic acid
Lactic acid helps remove and eliminate dead, keratinized skin flakes, as a result, renewing epidermal cells. Gels with lactic acid not only cleanse, but also moisturize the dermis, eliminating the feeling of dryness and itching. It is contained in extremely small quantities in the product, but a small dosage is enough for the composition, together with other components, to have the correct effect.
Lactacyd Oxygen Fresh
The product does not contain soap, but foams very well, which is positively noted by users. The packaging is designed quite aesthetically, the aroma is unobtrusive, there are marine notes. The gel is enriched with oxygen and gives a feeling of freshness for the whole day - Lactacid is not in vain confirmed by quality standards, it is approved by dermatologists. Suitable for use during the postpartum, climatic, and menstrual periods; women highly rated the product at these stages.
Advantages:
- Economical consumption;
- Natural ingredients in the composition;
- Does not cause dryness;
- Gives a feeling of coolness;
- Convenient to take with you on the road.
Flaws:
- Requires thorough rinsing;
- Contains sulfates.
Reviews of Lactacid intimate hygiene gel are positive, it has an anti-inflammatory effect, eliminates unpleasant odors for a long time, relieving swelling and irritation.
The best dental floss
Levrana
The product maintains the optimal acidity level for a woman - pH4. Suitable for pregnant and lactating women, it has a fairly pleasant aroma and eliminates bacteria that cause unpleasant diseases. Improves the condition of the mucous membrane; it contains oils and natural herbal ingredients. The consistency is semi-liquid, the gel is packaged in a matte, white bottle of 250 ml. Suitable for daily, permanent use.
Advantages:
- Easily washed off;
- Natural composition;
- Suitable for children;
- Protects microflora;
- Convenient bottle.
Flaws:
- Does not foam;
- The dispenser does not allow you to use the product economically.
A small amount of gel is enough for one-time use, but users do not like the dispenser, which does not regulate the flow and practically splashes out the excess.
Nivea Intimate Natural
Nivea has rightfully earned its leadership position - the gel has quite good characteristics and many positive qualities. Moisturizes, does not cause irritation, and gives a comfortable feeling after use. The product contains useful components - chamomile extract and jojoba oil, there are no alkaline components. A convenient bottle, the absence of dyes and economical consumption, all this can also be attributed to the advantages of the product. Intimate Natural is sold in cosmetics stores.
Advantages:
- Thick;
- Foams well;
- Does not create a film;
- Gently cleanses;
- Maintains natural pH;
- Can be used at any time.
Flaws:
- No dispenser;
- High price.