Although the vulva (the external genital skin) and the vagina (the internal canal) are different parts of the body, they are closely connected — and what happens on the outside can absolutely affect what happens on the inside.
Here’s how:
1. The vulva is the first line of defense for the vaginal microbiome
The vaginal microbiome is a delicate ecosystem dominated by lactobacilli, which keep the vagina slightly acidic and naturally protected.
The vulva sits right at the entrance to this ecosystem.
If the vulvar skin barrier is healthy, hydrated, and balanced, it helps maintain that protective environment.
When the vulva is irritated or stripped of moisture, it weakens this defense — making it easier for unwanted bacteria to overgrow and disrupt the vaginal microbiome.
2. Foaming soaps can disrupt both the vulva AND the vaginal microbiome
Common foaming cleansers often contain:
- Harsh surfactants (like SLS/SLES)
- Synthetic fragrances
- Preservatives
- High or unbalanced pH
These ingredients can:
- Strip the vulvar skin of moisture
- Disrupt its natural pH
- Damage the skin barrier
- Kill or disturb beneficial bacteria that live near the vaginal opening
This creates conditions that make it easier for harmful bacteria to multiply — potentially contributing to odor, irritation, and even issues like bacterial vaginosis.
3. A disrupted vulva microbiome = a disrupted vaginal microbiome
The microbiome on the vulva and the microbiome inside the vagina interact constantly.
If the skin on the outside becomes dry, irritated, or imbalanced:
- It changes the local pH around the vaginal entrance
- It reduces the presence of protective bacteria
- It creates micro-tears where unwanted microbes can thrive
This can influence the internal environment and contribute to microbiome imbalance.
4. Gentle oil-based cleansers support the microbiome
Unlike foaming washes, oil-based intimate cleansers:
- Don’t strip the skin
- Help maintain natural hydration
- Support the vulvar barrier function
- Are naturally pH-friendly
- Help preserve the beneficial microbiota
- Reduce irritation that could affect the vaginal environment
A healthy vulva supports a healthy vagina — it’s that simple.
5. Why this reduces unwanted odor
Most “bad odor” comes from microbiome imbalance, not lack of hygiene.
When the vulva is cleansed gently:
- The microbiome stays balanced
- Lactobacilli thrive
- pH remains stable
- Odor-causing bacteria struggle to grow
Proper washing doesn’t just clean — it helps maintain the natural, healthy ecosystem that prevents odor in the first place.
⭐ In short:
How you wash the vulva directly influences the health of the vaginal microbiome.
Gentle cleansing = balanced microbiome
Balanced microbiome = less irritation, better comfort, healthier pH, less odor
