Should the delicate zone be washed daily?

It is recommended to gently wash the vulva daily, but there is no need to wash inside the vagina. Use a mild, weakly acidic cleanser and avoid scrubbing.

Is dedicated delicate zone soap necessary?

While not essential, weakly acidic types formulated with pH balance in mind are recommended as they are less likely to cause irritation. Avoid strong body soaps.

What should I do if I'm concerned about odor?

While stuffiness or over-washing can be causes, if you have a strong odor or changes in discharge, it could be an infection, so please consult a medical institution.

Should the delicate zone be moisturized?

If you experience dryness or discomfort, using mild moisturizing products can improve comfort. The delicate zone tends to be particularly dry during menopause and postpartum periods.

Basic intimate care

― Knowing the facts is the best self-care ―

The delicate zone is not a "special place."

However, in Japan, for a long time,
it was rarely discussed and opportunities to learn about it were scarce.

As a result, many people "don't know the correct care methods" or "just do things their own way."

In this article, we will explain the basics of delicate zone care in an easy-to-understand way, from both a scientific and everyday perspective.

What exactly is the delicate zone?

Generally, it refers to the vulva (the area around the vaginal opening).

This area has:

●Thin skin
●A structure similar to mucous membranes
●A unique pH balance
●Protection by resident bacteria

In other words, it is a completely different environment from your face.

What is the pH of the delicate zone?

A healthy vagina maintains a slightly acidic pH (around 3.8 to 4.5).

This is because resident bacteria, such as lactic acid bacteria, prevent the invasion of external bacteria.

Over-washing with strong body soap can disrupt this balance, leading to itching and odor.

Basic ①: Don't over-wash

The most common mistake is "over-washing."

●Scrubbing vigorously
●Washing inside the vagina
●Using soap with strong cleansing power

The delicate zone should be "gently washed" as a basic rule.

Choose a dedicated soap or a mild, weakly acidic type, and wash by applying foam with your hands.

*There is generally no need to wash inside the vagina.

Basic ②: Moisturize

Surprisingly, the delicate zone can also become dry.

●Menopause
●Postpartum
●Stress
●Hormonal changes

These can cause dryness, leading to itching and discomfort.

Just like your face, moisturizing care is also important.

Basic ③: Underwear selection is part of the care

Poorly ventilated materials and tight underwear can cause stuffiness and friction.

●Cotton material
●Breathable design
●Correctly sized

Even when using absorbent underwear, check the absorbency and how quickly it dries.

What to do if you are concerned about odor?

Odor can have various causes.

●Stuffiness
●Over-washing
●Imbalance of bacteria
●Infection

If you experience a strong odor, changes in discharge, or itching, do not self-diagnose and consult a medical institution.

Delicate zone care is about "health," not "beauty."

It's not just about improving appearance.

●Being comfortable
●Knowing your own body
●Noticing discomfort early

Don't compartmentalize women's health as "something special." Rather, incorporate it into daily life so you can address it with peace of mind.

That is the foundation of delicate zone care.

Summary

●Don't over-wash
●Maintain a mildly acidic pH
●Moisturize
●Be mindful of ventilation
●Consult a doctor if you notice any abnormalities

Knowing the facts is the best self-care.