How often do you practice self-care down there? Yes, we’re talking about your lady parts. Intimate care is a form of self-love. Here are six ways to give your vagina the TLC it deserves
The importance of self-care has been drilled into us in recent years, and with good reason: self-care is essential for our overall well-being. That said, self-care rituals like skincare, sleep, and exercise tend to get all the attention, but vaginas, too, deserve some TLC. That’s why Rael’s theme this month is: “Self-Care Down There,” which aligns perfectly with our Every Day brand anthem. We’re all about celebrating feminine care every single day of the month, not just the days you’re on your period.
To help you step up your intimate self-care, below we outlined some fun, practical, and sassy ways to take better care of your lady business.
Switch to natural period products
Traditional period products are often chock-full of toxic chemicals. You and your vagina deserve better than that. Luckily, there are so many options for natural period products to choose from. There are organic cotton tampons, pads, and pantyliners if you want to stick to OG-style period products. Or, opt for something more eco-friendly like no-fuss menstrual cups that’ll last you 10 years (yes, really!) or Rael’s new Reusable Period Underwear that are leakproof, comfy, and oh so cool. Periods have never been better thanks to all these natural period product options.
Wear comfortable underwear
Speaking of underwear, what you wear on the days that you’re not bleeding also matters. Wearing sexy underwear may be just the boost you need to feel like your best self every day. Our advice: match your undies to your mood. Feeling sassy? Go for a thong style. Feeling cheeky? Bikini bottoms it is. Above all else, comfort is key when it comes to underwear. You don’t want anything digging into your skin or giving you wedgies. Also, remember to stick to cotton panties. Cotton is the most vagina-friendly fabric as it allows the area to breathe.
Grab a mirror
Seriously, grab your fave handheld mirror and take a good look at your vulva (Quick health class refresher: “Vagina” is often used to describe a woman’s entire pelvic region, but the outer part that you see is actually the vulva. The vagina is the muscular canal inside.). Getting up close and personal with your vulva is a very empowering self-love practice. And, it’ll also help you familiarize yourself with how things look down there, so you’re able to spot potential problems in the future.
Soothe your vulva
While we’re on the vulva topic, although it’s not often discussed, the skin around the vulva area can be sensitive and can have specific issues (think chafing, skin thinning, inflammation, and pH problems). Regular skincare products just won’t do the trick in this scenario. Enter: Rael’s new Soothing Vulva Care Line. Just like our Rael Beauty skincare line, these products are clean, effective, and feature cutting-edge K-Beauty science and formulas. There’s a Soothing Gel to Foam Feminine Wash that gently cleanses your vulva and leaves it moisturized and feeling fresh. There’s also Soothing Feminine Wipes to freshen up throughout the day, pH-balancing Soothing Feminine Mist, and Soothing Vulva Relief Gel for calming dry, irritated skin. The result: a soothed, happier, and healthier vulva. Now, that’s what we call self-care down there.
Start a pleasure practice
Yes, we’re talking about masturbation. Whether you prefer manual masturbation techniques or sex toys and vibrators are more your vibe, masturbation is a great way to show your vagina some love—literally. Make it a priority to carve out some alone time regularly and don’t be afraid to try different things until you find what feels good. And of course, you can also include a partner in the fun if you choose.
Book your gyno appointment
Real talk: When was your last pap smear? If you can’t remember, it’s probably time to book an appointment with your doctor or gynecologist. Preventative care is super important. So even if everything feels peachy down there, make some space in your Google Cal and give your gyno a ring, stat. You can also use this time for other vagina-friendly self-care such as discussing birth control, fertility, and STIs.