Vulva Balms Are Going Viral ― And Doctors Have Thoughts

There are new products on the market that are once again aimed at women’s bodies. They’re “vulva balms” with names like VMagic , Revive-A Balm and Comfy Cream , and they’re popping up in the health and beauty space with increasing regularity. But even with the fun packaging and empowering marketing messages, are products to moisturize the vulva really necessary?

We talked to several doctors, who fell into two clear camps: “Never, ever, ever” and “Sometimes, maybe, but be careful.”

The “predatory” nature of this type of feminine hygiene product.

“Honestly, I worry that vulva balms and similar products are predatory,” said obstetrician and gynecologist (OB-GYN) Dr. Kristyn Brandi . “They’re trying to target people who may be insecure about the appearance or smell of the vulva. Most vulvas are totally normal, but women are getting so many messages that their bodies are gross and they need to alter them to meet a beauty standard. When it comes to the vulva and vagina, a lot of those beauty products and techniques leave people with problems they didn’t have before.”

“I think it’s important for people to know that there is a huge range of ‘healthy’ in terms of vulvar appearance,” said OB-GYN Dr. Amie Leaverton. “You don’t need to use fragrance to make vulvas smell a certain way. In fact, products with fragrance will likely cause burning, itching and discomfort from vulvar dermatitis.”

“I would not recommend these products at all.”

Leaverton’s concern is shared by many of her colleagues. “I wouldn’t recommend using any vulva balm product at all,” said Dr. David Matlock , a cosmetic surgeon and gynecologist. “Using them could result in infections and allergic reactions. And they could potentially mask more serious