In a world of 7-step skincare routines for your face, treating your vulva to the same TLC shouldn't be taboo. We asked GP, Dr Clare Ashley how to go about daily intimate care.

Why your vulva needs attention, too

You might not think you have intimate dryness or need specialised care down there, but if you chafe or feel dry after exercise, get easily irritated after the shower, or feel like you're constantly on the brink of thrush or a UTI, you might want to revise your daily routine. 

A good intimate care routine isn't just about sex and intimacy, it's about feeling your best in your skin. 

Step 1: Washing intimate skin

We know that washing inside the vagina is a no-no. It simply doesn't need it as it's self-cleaning, and applying washes or douches internally can disrupt your delicate microbiome.

You can, however, wash the external skin, if you choose. This is a preference. You can also just use water, but we know that there are occasions when water alone may not feel sufficient. After sweating, exercise, intimacy or periods, it's perfectly fine to want to use something else to feel fresh. In fact, it's fine any time. You do you.

You just need to pick the right product for your body (enter the GP).

Dr Claire: It's important to maintain the delicate balance of your intimate area. I would generally recommend a balanced, pH-neutral cleanser for daily hygiene. It's ideal for supporting skin's comfort when showering or after exercise. 

Victory Cleanse is great because it's ultra gentle on skin and formulated with organic oils.

Step 2: Moisturising your vulva

Skin is skin. Sometimes it gets dry.

Daily activities wreak havoc on our intimate comfort levels, with tight clothing, exercise and intimacy taking their toll on our delicate skin. But at certain times of life, this impact can feel even greater.

Intimate skin is impacted by our hormones, so when our hormones change, such as after pregnancy, during menopause, or even at certain stages of our cycle, intimate dryness rears its head. Medication such as hormonal contraceptives and antidepressants can impact vulval and vaginal hydration, too.

The answer - some women will opt for HRT or vaginal oestrogen, especially during menopause. But if you're looking for a natural, hormone-free solution, a great intimate moisturiser can be life-saving.

Dr Claire: After cleansing, if the skin is sensitive or irritated, a hydrating solution like the Victory Oil can be applied. 

Step 3: Supporting intimacy

While intimate care is about your overall daily comfort and not just sex, of course, comfort during intimacy is important, too. Friction isn't fun.

Most lubricants on the market aren't made with women's bodies in mind. From hyper-masculine marketing to formulas with fragrance that are sure to give you a UTI.

We've developed a marketing-leading lubricant that put women first, with hyaluronic acid and prebiotics to support your delicate vaginal microbiome.

Dr Claire: If you want to add in a lubricant during intimacy, Victory Glide is great because the prebiotics help to support your vulval microbiome.

About the expert

Dr Claire Ashley is a GP with a neuroscience background, and a special interest in burnout and the way it impacts our lives.