Common Genital Skin Disruptors

Common Genital Skin Disruptors

We are taking a deep dive into everyday things that can disrupt genital skin.

Every day all of us come in contact with unsuspecting genital skin disruptors that can disrupt the pH balance and microbiome causing dryness and irritation of genital skin.

Why does PH matter?

Balance in life and balance with your genital skin go hand in hand.

The genital skin’s pH ranges from 3.8-5.5 which is a different pH than other skin surfaces of the body.

Anything that disrupts this delicate balance can lead to dryness, irritation, itching, burning or infection.

Certain products, like soaps and creams, can change the skin’s local pH that can make symptoms more likely.

Common Skin Disruptors

The list is long, and some of the most common pH balance offenders may surprise you.

  1. Urine
  2. Feces
  3. Genital Skin Care Products
    • Fragrant soaps, bubble bath liquids, bath salts, and talcum powder
    • Sanitary wipes and pads
    • Genderless hygiene sprays, tampons or deodorant pads
    • Overwashing or excessive Hygiene
  4. Laundry Products
    • Detergents, fabric softeners and dryer sheets
  5. Exercise
    • Excessive Sweating
    • Clothing - Nylon underwear or wet bathing suits
  6. Sexual Activity
    • Warming gels and scented lubricants
    • Rubber products such as diaphragms and condoms
    • Latex allergy
    • Saliva or semen
    • Spermicides (foams, creams, jellies)
  7. Genital Esthetic Care
    • Creams or ointments applied to the genitals
    • Shaving, lasering and waxing hair removal
  8. Medications
    • Birth Control Pill
    • Accutane
    • Antihistamines
    • Diuretics
    • Statins
    • Cold medications
    • Certain Antidepressants
  9. Nutrition
    • Alcohol Consumption
    • Vitamin or mineral deficiency - Low Vit D, Vit A, Niacin, Zinc, Iron
    • Caffeine
    • Eating Disorders - Anorexia, Bulimia
  10. Health/Medical Issues
    • Diabetes, Thyroid, Kidney Disease
    • Itchy skin conditions - atopic dermatitis, perioral dermatitis, psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis
    • Cancer survivors
    • Tobacco use
    • HIV+
  11. Skin Type and Aging
    • Fair skin, black and brown skin people
    • Aging, especially over 40y
  12. Cold Weather
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