Does your vulval skin need exfoliation? Here’s everything you need to know

Contrary to what advertisements for vaginal washes would have you believe, the vagina is a self-cleansing organ. In fact, it doesn’t require much effort at all. Hence, most experts suggest avoiding the usage of any fancy products down there.

When it comes to cleaning your vagina, Dr Nupur Gupta, Director, Department of Obstetrics And Gynaecology, Fortis, Gurugram suggests using a normal soap which doesn’t contain too many chemicals or a strong fragrance. She said, “You can clean your vulva using regular soap and warm water every day.”

So, should you try out exfoliation?

Soap works pretty well when it comes to maintaining vaginal hygiene. Hence, it isn’t necessary to exfoliate your vulva. From the method to the resultant inflammation, multiple things can go wrong while exfoliating your vulva. So, it is best to avoid it.

If you think that your vulva needs to be exfoliated in order to get rid of the dead skin cells, you’re quite mistaken. Your vulva does not require exfoliation. The skin down there is extremely thin and sensitive. Exfoliation will only lead to irritation and discomfort.

In addition, exfoliating the vulva can make you more susceptible to infection, inflammation, allergic reactions and an increased risk of rashes. 

Also, read: These are absolute worst feminine hygiene products, according to a gynaecologist

The only time you should be exfoliating is if…

Been regularly waxing your lady bits? If the answer to that question is ‘yes’, then you definitely need to exfoliate before you begin waxing. Properly exfoliated skin reduces the chances of ingrown hair and thus, it also reduces the discomfort.

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Apart from ingrown hair, exfoliation before waxing is also suggested to help clear out the clogged pores and hair follicles to reduce the risk of rashes, redness and infection. 

But, remember that…

Make sure you are only exfoliating your bikini line and the area right above it. Even when you are going for a Brazilian wax, never exfoliate the areas in and around the opening of the vagina or the side of it. In addition, be gentle because the pubic skin is extremely delicate.

So, we hope you now know that exfoliating the vulva isn’t the best idea and that the vagina should be left alone!