The feminine hygiene aisle can be overwhelming! With a variety of brands and wide range or personal care products, how do you know what is best for you and your intimate areas? With over $2 billion in sales annual in the United States alone products such as tampons, pads, feminine washes, sprays, powders and personal wipes are never going out of style! However, we are seeing a positive movement in brands and their selection of chemical and toxic free products, it’s about time!
Certain chemicals used in feminine care products can affect women’s health. How do you know which brands and products to shop for? Here’s a list of what to avoid and what to look for in your feminine care products.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)- Most commonly the key ingredient in shampoos, body washes, intimate washes, toothpaste, facial cleansers and much more. SLS can potentially cause irritation to skin, especially “down there”! Play it safe by sticking to feminine washes that use natural surfactants derived from ingredients such as coconut oil, sugar or vegetables.
Soap- Feminine washes can contain soap instead of synthetic surfactants mentioned above. With a low acidic pH, your vagina’s balance can be easily disrupted by the soaps alkaline pH and have a negative effect on the vaginal flora. Soap can also cause the mucosal lining to become dry!
Parabens (the enemy!)- Often found in many beauty products, parabens are preservatives that can cause skin irritations. A general rule of thumb, stay away from parabens!
Phthalates- Also known as Phthalate Esters, is commonly used in as plasticizers during the production of polyvinyl chloride and other plastics.
Perfumes or Synthetic Fragrances- A major irritant in beauty and personal care products! Perfumes or synthetic fragrances can contain hundreds of chemicals, unknown to consumers as it is not required to include details on product packaging and labels. Shop for products that are made with natural fragrances such as florals or citrus.
Keep in mind when you shop for personal care products that is important to do your research and read the labels. Stay away from the standout ingredients mentioned above and opt for buzz words such as organic, natural and clean.
If you are looking for a healthy and pH balancing feminine wash, look no further! You are in the right place. Our Honestly pHresh gentle Foaming Feminine Wash is packed with pre + probiotics and lactic acid to maintain the perfect pH level of your delicate area and to combat odor before it starts. Standout ingredients include Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Polymnia Sonchifolia Root Juice, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel, and Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract.
Available in Bergamot Rose, Sage & Chamomile or Fragrance Free!