Your health care provider has probably told you that douching is a big “don’ts” because “a healthy vagina self-cleans itself,” says Stacy Henigsman, DO and obstetrician / gynecologist in Allara. But the vulva, aka the area just outside of your vagina (which includes the clitoris and labia) won’t not have a self-cleaning mechanism, Dr. Henigsman points out, so that you can cleanse that area, especially after sex. You may also feel the need to cool off after a particularly vigorous workout, a hot day, or if you are on your period.

While some of us may experience musty or sweaty smells, be aware that it is totally normal and does not make us “dirty”. Whatever you do with your vulva is entirely your prerogative, but if or when you give your lower areas a little freshness, you’ll want to make sure you’re using products that are safe and non-irritating.

What types of washes are safe to use for your vulva?

When it comes to what you wash with, it’s usually wise to think twice before lathering your vulva area with whatever bar soap or shower gel you have in the shower. In fact, many wash their vulva with lukewarm water, which is normal and acceptable, you don’t have to use soap to clean the area. However, if you choose to use a soap, be aware that most regular soaps that can be used for your body may not be suitable for your vulva. “A [person with a vulva] Would choose a feminine cleanser over regular soap because standard soap or shower gels are usually too harsh on the vulva, ”says Dr. Henigsman. One thing to note is that bar soap is alkaline, and since your vagina and vulva are slightly acidic, the soap can throw things off balance and can even kill good bacteria.

“Lactobacilli are helpful bacteria that make the vaginal environment acidic and help prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, says Dr. Henigsman.“ The alkaline nature of regular soap can strip the skin of the vulva and leave it irritated, but it does can also kill helpful lactobacilli. the woman most prone to bacterial and yeast infections, ”says Dr. Henigsman. With this, not all female washes are equally good, so Dr. Henigsman recommends looking at the ingredient list below and avoiding using them on your V.

8 ingredients to skip in your feminine wash, according to an OBGYN

Soaps: “Regular soaps are not suitable for the pH of the vulva area and can cause dryness and irritation. Avoid regular soap altogether if you can, ”says Dr. Henigsman.

Sulfates (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate): “Sulfates are compounds that act as detergents and foaming agents. They are the main ingredients in shampoos, body washes and intimate cleansers. These sulfates have been shown to irritate the skin, especially the vulvar skin. delicate, ”she said.

Parabens: “Parabens are a group of chemicals widely used as artificial preservatives in cosmetics and body care products. They are known to cause skin irritation and contact dermatitis in people with sensitive skin, ”says Dr. Henigsman.

Perfumes or Synthetic Fragrances: “Synthetic fragrances and fragrances can contain hundreds of chemicals. These chemicals can cause severe skin irritation and can change the pH of the vulvar and vaginal area, which can make a woman more prone to vaginal infections,” explains the Dr Henigsman.

Preservatives like formaldehyde: “These preservatives can irritate the delicate vulvar area.”

Glycerine: “Glycerin is a sweet product that can increase yeast production and make you prone to yeast infections.”

Mineral oil: “This can change the vaginal pH and infections can occur,” says Dr. Henigsman.

Colorants: “Dyes can irritate the delicate skin of the vulva. “

If you’ve found more ingredients on this list in your shower than you’d like to admit, keep scrolling for some doc-approved feminine washes that you can rest assured they won’t bother your lower areas. (And just for the record: these soaps are only intended for your vulva – for use on the outside – not for your vagina).

Editor’s Note: We use the term “feminine wash” a few times in this article, as it’s the most searched term, but we realize it’s a bit of a outdated word. Whichever way you call it (feminine wash, personal wash, vulva / vaginal wash), we’re here to give you the most accurate and reliable information!

Oh hi! You look like someone who loves free workouts, discounts for top wellness brands, and exclusive Well + Good content. Sign up for Well +, our online community of wellness insiders, and unlock your rewards instantly.