Genital skin care

Almost all genital skin conditions benefit from simple changes to routine washing. Sometimes it’s not possible to identify what caused the initial skin condition.

Once skin is irritated, many other things can make the situation worse and keep it from resolving. Sometimes products or practices you used in the past without any problems may make the condition worse.

• Avoid soap, shampoo, body washes, bubble bath and other detergents, as they interfere with the skin’s protective layer.
• Keep to short, cooler showers: long hot showers increase itch and dry the skin. One shower per day is recommended, with a maximum of two.
• Avoid hot or tight nightwear, bedding, clothes and underwear.
• Avoid wool directly against genital skin. Also avoid synthetic garments and underwear such as lycra, nylon and polyester blends. Limit the time spent in active wear/ gym gear/ swimwear.
• Avoid scratching and cut fingernails so they can’t damage your skin.
• Avoid waxing, shaving and hair removal creams.
• Avoid perfumed products, particularly ‘hygiene’ products marketed for genitals. Also avoid using tea tree oil or any other disinfectant products.
• Avoid flavoured or perfumed lubricants or moisturisers for sexual activity. Water-based lubricants are recommended.
• Don’t use any creams that have not been prescribed for the condition including creams from the chemist or naturopath.
• Use laundry liquid detergents instead of laundry powder. Laundry powder may leave a residue in clothing/ underwear which may cause irritation. Also avoid fabric softeners as some ingredients will also cause skin irritation.

Saltwater baths: One small handful of salt in a shallow bath, soak for 10-15 minutes, two-three times per day. Stop saltwater bathing/soaking after three four days as excessive soaks can over dry the skin.

Cold packs: Cold packs are very good for relieving itch and burning pain, as cold can block pain and itch sensations. Use a small ice pack or frozen peas wrapped in a soft towel and apply to skin until itch or pain resolves. Reapply if symptoms return.

Soap substitutes: can be used for dry or irritated skin, although washing just with warm water is enough.

There are a wide range of brands including:

QV®, Hamilton®, Dermaveen®, Cetaphil®, Aveeno®.

Some people also find Aqueous cream to be a good substitute for soap.

Aqueous cream or sorbolene cream may be used as an effective moisturiser. Ensure that moisturising products are hypoallergenic and perfume free.

• Toilet paper: use non-coloured, unbleached, and unperfumed. Gentle washing may be preferable to rubbing with toilet paper.
• Increase fluids to produce diluted, less irritating urine. Limit caffeine, cola and chocolate which can act as diuretics. Excess chilli can cause peri-anal irritation.
• Avoid clothing with thick seams or tight-fitting crotch area such as jeans and g-strings. Cotton underwear is best.
• Natural and organic skin products may also cause irritation. Check with your clinician prior to use.
• Oil-based products may damage latex condoms and lead to breakage.