The Fast Facts
- Vaginal dryness, often caused by menopause or low estrogen, can be relieved with a vaginal moisturizer.
- The best vaginal moisturizers are pH-balanced, gentle, affordable, and provide lasting hydration inside the vagina.
- Bonafide Revaree Plus is our favourite suppository, while AH! YES Vaginal Moisturizing Gel stands out as the best natural vaginal moisturizer thanks to its organic ingredients.
Here, we compare the best vaginal moisturizers by their type, main ingredients, and price.
| Best | Type | Main ingredients | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Bonafide | suppository | vaginal insert/suppository | • hyaluronic acid • sweet almond oil | $65 |
AH! YES | natural ingredients | gel applicator | • flaxseed • aloe vera | $28.99 |
Replens | long-lasting | glycerine applicator | • glycerin • mineral oil • sorbic acid | $16.28 |
K-Y | value | liquibead suppository | • glycerin • gelatin • water | $14.97 |
Vaginal moisturizers are available over the counter (OTC) and provide moisture around and inside the vagina.
There are three main types of vaginal moisturizers:
- Creams and gels: These are usually applied with an applicator or a finger directly into the vagina.
- Suppositories or inserts: These are pills and capsules placed inside the vagina. Moisturizing suppositories can be convenient and easy to use.
- Lubricants: Some vaginal moisturizers also double up as lubricants. It’s important to note that vaginal moisturizers are designed for ongoing dryness relief, while lubricants are meant primarily for reducing friction during sex. However, some products can overlap in effect.
Some factors that people should consider when buying a vaginal moisturizer include:
- Ingredients: Products should contain nonirritating ingredients and ideally without fragrance, phthalates, or parabens.
- Form: Vaginal products come in different forms, such as gels, capsules, and suppositories. People should choose their preferred form and check how they should apply the moisturizer before committing to a purchase.
- pH balance: Products that are pH-balanced (typically around 3.8–4.5) help maintain the natural acidity of the vagina, supporting healthy bacteria, and reducing the risk of irritation or infections.
- Compatibility: Some products are compatible with condoms. However, Breastcancer.org advises against the use of oil and petroleum-based moisturizers with this type of barrier method, as they can damage latex condoms, and some people may also develop irritation.
- Cost: Vaginal moisturizers are available at different prices.
A person should always read the manufacturer’s instructions before using a vaginal moisturizer. These instructions will indicate whether the product should be applied internally, externally, or both, and how often it should be used.
For products that include an applicator, individuals should use it as directed to insert the moisturizer into the vagina safely and comfortably.
Causes of vaginal dryness
Vaginal dryness is often related to low estrogen levels, which can cause pain and irritation during sexual activities. It may also result from:
- menopause
- pregnancy
- breastfeeding
- taking certain hormonal contraceptives or antidepressants
- following a hysterectomy, especially if this involved removal of the ovaries
- following cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy
- having an underlying condition, such as diabetes or Sjögren’s syndrome
- reduced sexual arousal
- using perfumed soaps, washes, or douches in and around the vagina
When to consult a doctor
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, women who experience irritation and pain during sex after 2 months of using a moisturizer or lubricant should consult a doctor. It is also worth seeking medical advice if other symptoms are present, such as pain during urination or abnormal vaginal discharge.
The best way to moisturize the vagina is to use creams, gels, or suppositories formulated specifically for that area. These products are pH-balanced and help relieve dryness without disrupting vaginal health.
Using products that are not specifically for vaginas can cause problems such as yeast infections.
It is always important to follow the packet instructions. Many products are not suitable for daily use.
The best cream for the vagina depends on the specific concern:
- Dryness or irritation: A person should use a vaginal moisturizer made for intimate use (pH-balanced, fragrance-free).
- Yeast infection: An antifungal cream, like clotrimazole, may be effective.
- Bacterial infections: These usually need prescription treatment.
A person should avoid scented or regular body creams inside the vagina. If symptoms persist, they should see a healthcare professional.
Generally speaking, most gynecologists recommend vaginal moisturizers that are:
- fragrance-free and glycerin-free, to reduce irritation
- long-acting
- nonhormonal, unless estrogen therapy is recommended separately
Many companies state that gynecologists recommend their products. For example, both AH! YES and Replens states that doctors recommend their vaginal moisturizers.
A person should talk with their gynecologist to determine the most suitable option for their needs.
If over-the-counter (OTC) moisturizers are not effective, a healthcare professional may recommend prescription treatments for vaginal dryness, particularly when symptoms are related to low estrogen levels:
- Vaginal tablets (Vagifem): This is a tablet that a person inserts into their vagina using a disposable applicator.
- Vaginal cream (Estrace or Premarin): People can also use an applicator to apply the cream inside their vagina.
- Vaginal ring (Estring): Doctors insert the ring into a person’s vagina, and it starts releasing estrogen.
- Ospenifene (Osphena): This is a pill to treat painful sexual intercourse that develops when a person has vaginal atrophy.
A healthcare professional can help determine the underlying cause of symptoms and recommend the most appropriate treatment.
Yes, a person can use vaginal moisturizers if they are sexually active. They are designed to improve ongoing vaginal moisture and comfort and are typically used regularly, not just during sex.
Vaginal moisturizers are not the same as lubricants and may not reduce friction during sex, so many people still need a separate lubricant for comfort.
If a person is using condoms, they should check the product label to ensure the moisturizer is compatible with the type of condom being used.
Vaginal dryness affects many people, especially those experiencing menopause. Irritation and pain during sexual intercourse can also develop.
Many companies offer moisturizers to help provide moisture and reduce discomfort. They are available as pills, suppositories, ovules, and creams. People do not need a prescription to buy them.
However, individuals who experience pain during sexual intercourse or bleed between periods should consult a doctor to discuss their symptoms and treatment options.