If you are anything like me, it may be your worst nightmare to feel like you smell anything less than delicious — especially when it comes to “down there.” Keeping your pH balanced is always super important, not just for your mental health (aka, self-esteem) but for your vaginal health as well.
But first, a disclaimer! Remember that the vagina is self-cleansing (we love that for her) and these products are only meant for the vulva or pubic area. Meaning: Never use these products internally — you’ll be doing more harm than good.
The vagina is meant to have an acid pH, and lots of traditional soaps have a basic pH, which can easily throw off your natural chemistry. A messed up pH can mean yeast infectious or bacterial overgrowths, leading to Bacterial Vaginosis, according to The National Institutes Of Health. Contrary to what you might think, your pH can be messed up by simple, everyday things, like sex or your period. However, there are tons of products out there that are made to keep your coochie in mind— and they’re vulva-safe! There are tons of unscented, pH-balancing products you can add to your routine. Oh, and a bonus? They’re made by women.
- The Honey Pot Wipes
-
These wipes from The Honey Pot ($10) are a great on-the-go option to keep you feeling fresh. They are formulated for sensitive areas and are chemical, paraben, carcinogen, and sulfate-free. (P.S.: They come in a sensitive skin option, too) Pro tip? Throw them in your gym bag to freshen up after a sweaty spin class.
- Queen V Intimate Wash
-
This wash from Queen V ($4) is meant to protect the healthy microbiome down there and balance your pH. Plus, it’s from a female-owned company. Iconic, IMHO.
- Queen V Cleansing Bar
-
Want an option that’s perfect for traveling? The bar version of Queen V’s cleanser ($4) is perfect for travel, and making sure your microbiome stays normal even as you swim and shower in different water.
- SweetSpot Labs pH Balancing Full Body Cleanser
-
SweetSpot Labs is a cruelty-free brand that features a vulva-safe cleanser ($15) that comes in yummy scents like vanilla and coconut, as well as an unscented option, if that’s more your vibe. Plus, this versatile product is a full-body cleanser, so you can use it from head to toe. Hand me a loofah!
- Dove Unscented Soap
-
As a girl with sensitive skin, this is my holy grail! And yes, it’s definitely an OG, but you can’t fix perfection. This bar soap ($7) is always in my shower because Dove’s unscented formula is safe for sensitive skin, especially down there.
- Maude Wipes
-
These wipes from maude ($12) are completely compostable and unscented. They even expand when you add water, so you’re able to cleanse the whole body. Their compact and dry formula makes them perfect for leaving in your car, bag, or suitcase for whatever adventures you might find yourself in.
- Rael Feminine Wipes
-
These wipes from Rael ($10 ) feature soothing ingredients like aloe for sensitive skin and grapefruit scents to help with odors. Plus, they are alcohol, paraben, and artificial fragrance-free — literally couldn’t be any better.
- Love Wellness pH Balancing Cleanser
-
Love Wellness created a winner with this cleanser ($15). This vegan formula is paraben, sulfate, and fragrance-free. But, unlike other cleansers, this wash is designed to match the vagina’s acid pH.
- The Honey Pot Refreshing Panty Spray
-
Still not feeling fresh after wipes or washes? Try adding a spritz of this spray from The Honey Pot ($9) to your panties to minimize odor. It comes in scents like lavender, bergamot rose, cucumber aloe, and jasmine, or unscented for fragrance-sensitive skin. You can also use it on your armpits or feet to stay fresh there too!
- The Honey Pot Soothe Ritual
-
Not sure where to start with vulva care? Turn to The Honey Pot’s Soothe Ritual Bundle ($33) with vulva cream, sensitive skin wash, and pH-safe bath bombs. Give your V the love it deserves.
