Your Vulva Called - It's Sweating! Your Ultimate Summer Care Guide
Summer’s still here, and while we’re all about squeezing in one more beach day or pool party, let’s be honest—things can get a little bit uncomfortable down there. During these hot summer months, feminine care is as essential as sunscreen or hydration! Between sweat, chafing, and those high-cut bikini bottoms, your vulva might be feeling less than lovely. But don’t sweat it (literally, try not to!), because we’ve got four key tips to keeping cool, calm, and collected all summer long.
Too Harsh to Handle: Over-Cleansing and the Wrong Soaps
You might be thinking: Staying fresh equals scrubbing away after a sweaty day. Surprise! Overwashing and strong soaps aren’t doing your vulva any favors. It’s not a kitchen floor and doesn’t need that kind of harsh treatment. (Quick PSA: Your vagina is internal and self-cleaning, while your vulva is the outer bits that do appreciate some quality skin care.) Overwashing can lead to itchy, dry skin and even wash away your body’s good bacteria. Instead of scratchy washcloths or loofahs, focus on gentle washing methods (hands work fine!) and products that are not overly stripping or powerfully scented. Instead, use a moisturizing cleanser that helps balance your pH and microbiome, like the say la V.® nourishing Veauty® wash, which is specifically designed to help maintain your sensitive skin. Summertime feminine care equals feeling completely confident down there.
Sweaty Situation: Ditch the Damp Clothes
Picture this: you’ve emerged from a relaxing afternoon in the pool, and now you’re sitting in a lounge chair, sipping a drink, still wearing your damp swimsuit. Sounds relaxing, right? Not quite. Bad bacteria love a warm, wet place to set up shop—including sweat-soaked gym clothes, tight swimwear, your tank top and jean shorts in 90° degree weather. It’s best to change out of sweaty or wet clothing ASAP to avoid bacteria from growing and to keep infections at bay. Your vulva is happiest when dry and free of irritants, which, yes, also includes chlorine. If you’re on the go after a workout or swim, the say la V. refreshing Veauty mist quickly hydrates, dries, and odor neutralizes down there, so you can feel better and worry less. So, enjoy that drink by the beach, but don’t leave your vulva hanging!
Tight and Trapped: The Underwear Dilemma
Think of your vulva as a tiny tropical island on a summer’s day—it needs a nice breeze to stay cool and comfortable. So, let’s not trap it in tight, non-breathable fabrics. Many of our summer favorites like swimwear and activewear (hello, bike shorts) are made with polyester, nylon, and other synthetic materials. With their close knit, these fabrics more easily trap excess moisture and heat, both no-nos for your vulva. Choose breezy natural fibers like cotton or linen, which have a looser weave, allowing for better air circulation to help keep you dry and fresh. Comfy, cotton underwear is an all-around summer clothing win to avoid irritation! Remember: a gentle fit + fabric that easily breathes = a shady retreat for your vulva.
Pre and Post Fun: Hygiene Before and After Intercourse
Summer lovin’ is in the air! But, wait, before you dive into a passionate embrace, let's talk about staying healthy down there. Whether it's a romantic beach moment or a steamy night indoors, practicing good feminine care before and after sex is essential for preventing infections and irritations. We love cuddles, but don’t get too comfy post-coitus. Always, always pee after sex in order to clear the urinary tract of bacteria and other germs. (Yup, the opening of the urinary tract, aka the urethra, is a part of your vulva!) Not peeing after intercourse can lead to a painful urinary tract infection (UTI). While in the bathroom, remember to wipe front to back. Let’s not bring any bacteria from the back door to the front, okay? This advice of “front to back” is also applicable when being intimate, whether flying solo or with a partner. By keeping our hygiene advice in mind, you can reduce the likelihood of infection and irritation, which means more summer fun for you and your body.
Everyone’s summer Vagenda® will be different, but we can agree that your vulva deserves a little extra TLC during these hot months. Following these simple tips can help keep your bits healthy, happy, and ready for whatever the summer brings (skinny dipping, anyone?). So, go ahead and soak up the sun! You now know how to treat your vulva to its own little vacation.
