The intimate area consists partly of skin and partly of mucous membrane. The entrance to the vagina marks the transition between the two types of tissue. There is a lot of muscle in the area, and the tissue is designed to be able to give, e.g. in connection with intercourse and childbirth. But even though our muscles are strong and elastic, and our skin and mucous membrane are made to keep themselves in balance, the muscles require exercise, and the mucous membranes and skin require moisture to stay supple and yielding throughout life.
Hormonal fluctuations in connection with puberty, menstruation, breastfeeding and menopause mean that much of the natural moisture in the mucous membrane disappears. Periodically or more permanently. In the same way, ordinary soap products with a high pH value, e.g. shower gel, dry out both our mucous membranes and skin in the intimate area. And the moisture that disappears must be replenished. Externally as well as internally.
Cleanliness, moisture and fat
If your skin and mucous membrane do not get moisture, they can easily develop small cracks and tears, which can sting, itch, burn and cause discharge. And in the worst case become infected with harmful bacteria or viruses from e.g. visits to the toilet or sexual contact. It is therefore important to keep yourself clean. You can do this, among other things, by using a mild and pH-adapted intimate soap, which is specially developed for the intimate area. And by using wet wipes after visits to the toilet.
But you must also add moisture and fat to the skin with a good intimate cream after you have washed and possibly shaved. In this way you help the tissue restore its natural barrier against foreign and harmful bacteria.
For the intimate area, it can be an advantage to choose a cream with a high fat percentage (over 70%). The high fat content causes the skin's cells to bind more tightly to each other, so that foreign bodies cannot penetrate as easily.
When you choose intimate care products, you can benefit from choosing ones that:
- contain moisturizing ingredients that soften your skin and restore its elasticity
- reduce redness and irritation - especially if you shave
- are not greasy, but quickly penetrate the skin
- are based on natural content. That is, they contain ingredients that either originate from nature or are found in your own body
- are allergy-friendly, because the skin in the intimate area is particularly delicate and sensitive
