Vaginal dryness is a typical result of menopause, which might cause pain and irritation during sexual activities. This is where vaginal moisturizers come in. They improve the moisture content in the vagina and enhance the quality of the vaginal tissues. Therefore, a vaginal moisturizer should be used in anticipation of intercourse and not at the time of intercourse. It provides adequate nourishment to your vaginal tissues and prepares them for intimate moments. So, scroll down to know more about vaginal moisturizers – their uses, types, and the best products you can buy online.
Types Of Vaginal Moisturizers
Vaginal moisturizers are of two kinds – hydrating and soothing moisturizers. Hydrating moisturizers come in two forms. One that can be inserted into your vagina with the help of a disposable applicator. These are usually cream or gel-based moisturizers. The other is a suppository that dissolves when you apply it to your vagina. If you are suffering from a dry vagina prone to severe irritation, hydrating vaginal moisturizers are best for you. On the other hand, soothing moisturizers are rich in coconut oil, argan oil, and vitamin E that can be used inside or outside your vagina. These moisturizers usually come in capsule form. There are plenty of vaginal moisturizers in the market that are manufactured with the common aim of reducing the pain and anal dryness. But, every product comes with its benefits and limitations. Let us look at the 8 best intimate area moisturizers that you can consider buying.
8 Best Vaginal Moisturizers: How To Use & Buying Guide
1. Best Non-GMO Moisturizer: Pretty Private Vaginal Moistuizer
The Pretty Private Vaginal Moisturizer addresses issues caused by menopause, BV, and vulvodynia. It is infused with coconut, butter, vitamins, and beeswax oil, that provide soothing hydration to your vaginal tissues. This non-GMO moisturizer relieves pain caused due to redness, irritation, shaving, and chaffing. It prevents the development of yeast infections in your intimate area and boosts its natural health. This product contains natural ingredients and is free of parabens, estrogens, and hormones, making it suitable for all skin types. Pros
Long-lasting Suitable for all skin types Relieves razor burns Contains natural ingredients Paraben-free Estrogen-free Hormone-free No synthetic preservatives
Cons
Watery consistency
2. Best Capsule:K-Y Liquibeads Vaginal Moisturizer
The K-Y Liquibeads Vaginal Moisturizer elevates your vaginal health and lasts up to 48 hours. It comes in capsules that dissolve quickly and heal your dry tissues. This silicone-based moisturizer is specially designed to enhance your sexual moments and is compatible with condoms made of natural rubber latex, polyisoprene, and polyurethane. Also, it comes with six applicators that help avoid messy ovule insertions. Use the capsules twice a week to get the best lubricating effect. This non-irritating product is devoid of fragrance, paraben, or alcohol. Pros
Long-Lasting No clumping Easy to insert Fragrance-free Alcohol-free Paraben-free
Cons
Expensive Might feel sticky
3. Best Easy Application:Vagisil Long-Lasting Moisturizing Lubricant
The Vagisil Long-Lasting Moisturizing Lubricant is specially designed to ensure less mess. The fast-acting formula makes it fit to be used on the spot. This vaginal moisturizer does not interrupt the sexual moment with irritationa. It supplements the right amount of hydration to your dry vagina and reinstates natural lubrication. This product contains hyaluronic acid that holds 1000x its weight in water and boosts hydration. The product is discreet and allows no one except you to realize its presence. Pros
Easy application Long-lasting Enhance tissue elasticity No added preservatives Estrogen-free Fragrance-free
Cons
Expensive Might leave a white residue
4. Best pH Balanced Formula:Luvena Vaginal Moisturizer & Lubricant
Are you looking for an all-natural vaginal moisturizer that works for all skin types? The Luvena Vaginal Moisturizer & Lubricant is the best pick. Its unique formula is enriched with jojoba seed oil, cranberry extracts, aloe vera, and Vitamin E, specially designed for feminine wellness. This water-based moisturizer is made with low osmolality and natural enzymes. It heals the dry vaginal tissues and provides them with a boost of hydration. The pH-balanced solution soothes, refreshes, and cleanses the intimate areas. This product comes with a gentle cranberry flavor which makes it more appealing. The gel-like consistency is easy to apply. Pros
Long-Lasting pH balanced Contains natural ingredients Toxin-free Suitable for sensitive skin SLS-free Paraben-free
Cons
Strong smell
5. Best Natural Ingredient:Vanibiss Organic Vulva Balm
The Vanibliss Organic Vulva Balm serves multiple intimate care purposes. It is specially formulated to relieve dryness, irritation, and general discomfort of your dry vagina caused by menopause or hormonal changes. This organic cream balances the pH level to prevent any foul vaginal odor. It eases your menopause period and helps you have effortless, intimate moments with your partner. Also, this product helps reduce vaginal inflammation and ingrown hair. Pros
Controls vaginal odor Relives chaffing Reduces ingrown hair Regains pH balance Non-greasy 100% organic ingredients Cruelty-free Estrogen-free No added chemicals Paraben-free No added preservative Petroleum-free
Cons
Might leave stains Unpleasant smell
6. Best Fast Acting Formula:Gynatrof Vaginal Moisturizer & Lubricant
If you are looking for a fast-acting and long-lasting vaginal moisturizer, check out the Gynatrof Vaginal Moisturizer & Lubricant. This gel-like moisturizer adds natural lubrication to your vagina and heals the dry tissues. It contains hyaluronic acid, liposomes, hop plant extracts, and vitamin E that help manage the symptoms of vaginal atrophy. This estrogen-free product supplies hydration to your intimate area throughout the day. It provides instant relief to chaffing, burning sensation, and irritation in your intimate part. This product comes with a reusable applicator that leaves no messy discharge. Also, it recedes your vaginal pH level to its normal acidic state. Pros
Provides pH balance Leaves no messy discharge Relieves burning and itching sensation Reduces symptoms of vaginal atrophy Vegan Gluten-free Non-hormonal Glycerin-free Fragrance-free Comes with reusable applicator
Cons
Might clump after sometime
7. Best Fast Acting:Terramed Hydro GYN Vaginal Moisturizer
The Terramed Just Think Comfort Hydro GYN Vaginal Moisturizer is a moisturizing vaginal gel that supports vaginal health. The moisturizer has 10 pre-filled applicators for vaginal insertion that provides long-lasting moisture to your vagina keeping it protected from dryness. It also combats vaginal discomfort, unnatural odor, and vaginal atrophy. The formula is infused with rose boric acid that is scientifically proven to freshen you up in an instant. The water-based moisturizer also acts as a natural lubricant for pain-free and comfortable intimacy. The vaginal moisturizer is formulated with a balanced pH content that hydrates, soothe, cleanses, and refreshes intimate areas. Pros
Estrogen-free No dyes Fragrance-free Hydration lasts up to 3 days
Cons None
8. Best Suppositories:Mother’s Dose Stay Balanced Vaginal Suppositories
The Mother’s Dose Vaginal Suppositories regulate hormone levels during menopause and rejuvenate dry vaginal tissues. The perfect blend of organic cocoa butter and coconut oil restores the natural lubrication of your vagina. The active Dhea ingredients reduce the risk of pain during sex and promote active elasticity and tightening of the vaginal tissues. This lubricant is free of parabens, fragrance, and glycerin. For better results, preserve these suppositories in the refrigerator 15 minutes before use. Pros
Reduces pain during sex Paraben-free Fragrance-free Glycerin-free Tightens the vagina
Cons None Many women experience vaginal dryness due to various reasons apart from menopause. However, knowing the exact cause is crucial to find a proper treatment. So, let us get a brief idea about the common causes of vaginal dryness.
Causes Of Vaginal Dryness
Vaginal dryness is a common symptom, especially in people who have experienced menopause. Menopause decreases the estrogen level (estrogen is a female hormone that keeps your vagina lubricated and hydrated) and leaves your vaginal tissues thin and less elastic. This condition is known as vaginal atrophy. Therefore, a serious estrogen level drop can dry out your vagina. Some other factors that can significantly reduce your estrogen levels are:
Childbirth Breastfeeding Removal of ovaries Smoking Chemotherapy Radiation in the pelvic area. Anti-estrogen medications and anti-depressants. Sjogren’s syndrome can make your body entirely dry.
Vaginal moisturizers are health care products and should be used only when required. So, consult a doctor before purchasing one. Also, you must consider several factors things before selecting the best vaginal moisturizer for yourself. Scroll down to find out what they are.
How To Choose The Best Vaginal Moisturizer
Ingredients: You must check the ingredients and only select those that have the least irritants. Try to avoid moisturizers that contain artificial fragrances, parabens, and phthalates. Form: Vaginal moisturizers are available in three states, i.e., gel, suppositories, and capsules. Capsule moisturizers dissolve quickly and act faster than the other two. So, select a product according to your need and convenience of use. Compatibility: Check the compatibility with other sexual health care products before buying a vaginal moisturizer. Petroleum-based moisturizers usually damage the latex condoms and cause severe irritation. Therefore, opt for water- or silicone-based moisturizers that are condom-friendly and do not interfere with sex toys.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions while applying the vaginal moisturizers to avoid any side effects. The next section will introduce the common steps of using a vaginal moisturizer. Read on for more information.
How To Use Vaginal Moisturizers
Although there are several ways to use vaginal moisturizers., always try to follow the instructions from the product manual. Some vaginal moisturizers come with single-use or reusable applicators. Using an applicator can be convenient and less messy. Also, apply the product to your inner and outer labia for the most effective results. This will ensure overall hydration and increase the elasticity of the vaginal tissues. For suppositories, it is preferable to store them in the refrigerator before use. If you are wondering how often you should use a vaginal moisturizer? We suggest you start using it regularly and regulate its usage later. Also, people going through the menopause phase and experiencing extremely dry and painful vaginas must use it 3-5 times a week.
When Should You Consult A Doctor?
While we know that not everyone is comfortable opening up about their sexual health, it is crucial to speak to a doctor if you experience intractable pain, irritation, and dryness in your vagina. Consult your health advisor as soon as it affects your lifestyle and causes difficulty in your sex life. On the other hand, you must see your doctor when you face any persistent issue related to infection, pain, or redness after using a vaginal moisturizer. If left untreated, these issues can cause serious illnesses such as urinary tract infections(UTI) and vaginal inflammation. Since caring for your intimate body part is imperative, the best vaginal moisturizers will do the job for you. These moisturizers provide a natural cure for female dryness. A fall in estrogen level in the body can lead to an itchy, dry, and dehydrated vagina. This is where the vaginal dryness products can come in handy as they add the necessary moisture and revitalize the health of your vaginal tissues. With these vaginal suppositories, you can improve your sex life and gain confidence. So, select a product that works best for you and consult your doctor before purchasing one.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Vaishnavi Kothuri, the writer of this article, is a certified skin care specialist. She has conducted thorough research on the products mentioned above and laid down their pros and cons. In addition, she has given a brief idea to help you select the moisturizers that will work best for you and explained the safest way of using them on the vagina. Does vaginal moisturizer contain estrogen or other hormones? No. Vaginal moisturizers do not contain estrogen or other hormones. Since hormonal ingredients may cause extreme redness, itching, and irritation, vaginal moisturizers are primarily estrogen-free. How common is vaginal atrophy? Vaginal atrophy is very common among women over the age of 50. People in the pre-menopausal or post-menopausal stage are most likely to experience severe vaginal dryness and irritation. However, only 20 to 25% of people report their signs of vaginal dryness, pain, and irritation to doctors. What other options do I have if OTC moisturizers are not working? In case OTC moisturizers are not working for your vaginal dryness, you can opt for vaginal creams like Premarin, vaginal rings like Femring, or you can shift to vaginal tablets and suppositories like Vagifem and IMVEXXY. Is the moisturizer safe for UTI-susceptible women? No. Although lubricants, moisturizers, and pH balancers are recommended to treat vaginal atrophy, they may have adverse effects and increase a woman’s risk for UTI. Therefore, UTI-susceptible women must consult their doctor before using vaginal moisturizers. Will the moisturizer cause bacterial vaginosis or prevent BV? Yes, a vaginal moisturizer might help prevent BV. Some moisturizers promote the pH balance in your vagina and change it to the normal acidic level. The acidic pH prevents bacteria from infecting your genitals, thus preventing BV. So, you must select those products that help regain the pH balance of your vagina. Does the moisturizer contain water and glycerin? Yes. Usually, vaginal moisturizers contain glycerin, which adds a slippery effect to your vagina and enhances lubricity. Water-based vaginal moisturizers contain water, but certain brands manufacture silicone-based moisturizers that are easy on the skin.
