Are You Guilty of These Intimate Hygiene Mistakes?

You may not realize it, but some of the things you do in taking care of and cleaning your intimate area can do more harm than good. This is especially true if you’ve been experiencing itchiness, darkening, or irritation down there. 

Below are the Intimate Hygiene Mistakes that can compromise your vaginal health.

1. Wearing non-breathable underwear

While satin and silk undies may look and feel fancy, they trap heat and reta in moisture. This promotes yeast or bacterial growth, skin irritation, and other possible infections. The same is also true for nylon, Lycra, and other synthetic fibers. They reduce airflow and can contribute to rashes and irritation.

It is best to stick with breathable fabrics like cotton, which helps keep the area cool and dry throughout the day. You can also look for undies with a cotton crotch panel. When it comes to exercising, you can choose to skip cotton and switch to a moisture-wicking fabric. Just be sure to change your wet clothes immediately post-workout. 

2. Wearing your pad/tampon for a lengthy period

Leaving your pad and tampon for too long provides a breeding ground for both bacteria and fungus. It may then encourage bacterial growth and bad odor, and make you more prone to infection. Changing them regularly can keep the area down there refreshed and prevent accidental leaks. 

If you’re using sanitary pads, it is recommended to change them before they’re full (about 4 to 6 hours). If you’re wearing tampons, don’t leave them for more than 8 hours. Change them every 4 to 8 hours. You should also consider switching to pads when your menstrual flow is light.

3. Wearing tight underwear and clothing

The skin on your intimate area is not the same as the rest of your body; it is actually more sensitive. Extremely tight undies (or smaller ones) can leave marks on your skin and increase your likelihood of having rashes and vaginal infections. They can also cause more friction in the groin area, which may then result in vaginal darkening. 

The same can also be said for tight-fitting or constrictive clothes. This is because they can increase chafing and friction that can lead to intimate area darkening. Uncomfortable clothing like pants, furthermore, also promote a warm and moist environment that can increase your risk of bacterial infections.  

4. Wiping the area roughly or too hard

As previously mentioned, the skin/tissue in your intimate area is more sensitive and delicate. Wiping too hard or using coarse toilet paper can cause small cuts that can lead to irritation, swelling, and infection. This can also happen with excessive wiping, especially if your toilet paper contains dyes, fragrances, and other chemicals. 

Experts recommend being as gentle as you can when wiping the area down there. Make sure to use soft, unscented toilet paper. You can also consider dabbing instead of wiping whenever possible. 

5. Douching or using scented soaps

One important thing you should know about your vagina is that it is a self-cleaning organ. It doesn’t need to be washed thoroughly and you don’t need douches or deodorant sprays to do so. Your vulva (the outer part of your genital area) is actually the one that needs gentle care, but this doesn’t mean using harsh or perfumed soaps.

In cleaning the vulva, it is best to use mild or unscented soap and warm water. Avoid douches, even those that are labeled natural, as they can disrupt the natural pH balance of your vagina. They can also get rid of the good bacteria in the area and cause irritation. 

6. Shaving with an old, dull razor

If you shave your pubic hair, be sure to use a sharp razor. Avoid using old and worn-out blades, as they are ineffective and will only increase your risk of rash or razor burns. It is also likely for dull and old razors to harbor bacteria, especially if you’ve been using them for quite a long time. 

Make sure to change your blades regularly and use an unscented shaving cream or gel. You can also consider other hair removal methods like trimming or laser hair removal. The latter is a more permanent option, as it works by damaging the hair follicles under the skin, which inhibits future hair growth. 

Are there aesthetic treatments for the intimate area?

Yes, there are. At Cutis Medical Laser Clinics, we have two non-invasive treatments that can treat or improve your intimate area. You may consider these procedures if you have issues related to vaginal laxity, urinary stress incontinence, or intimate area darkening. 

Ultra Femme 360 – is a US FDA-cleared non-invasive procedure for intimate area rejuvenation. It helps promote the female’s wellbeing by improving laxity, urinary stress incontinence, and sexual satisfaction. Ultra Femme 360 can provide vaginal rejuvenation, which includes labia remodeling and vaginal tightening.

The procedure treats the vaginal tissues, resulting in immediate contraction and improved blood flow. It triggers neocollagenesis or the process of building new collagen. This takes over time, normally within 60 to 90 days after the procedure.

The Pink Intimate System – is a painless skin lightening system for the intimate area. It uses a specially formulated topical and non-invasive solution with a delicate mixture of safe lightening ingredients. It can lift, lighten, and rejuvenate the intimate areas to help you feel more confident about your own skin and body.

The Pink Intimate System can also be used in other areas such as the areola (skin around the nipples), inner thighs, and underarms. It can safely lighten unsightly blemishes and improve the appearance of darkened sensitive areas with no side effects or downtime.

Learn how to properly take care of your lady parts for a happy, healthy intimate area. Contact Cutis Medical Laser Clinics Singapore today and schedule a consultation with our aesthetic doctor to find out if you’re a good candidate for our vaginal rejuvenation treatments.