Dry vulva: what cream to use, and can you use Vaseline? What UK dermatologists recommend

Is your vulva dry, itchy, tight or sore? UK skin specialists have simple, cheap advice. Wash less. Avoid fragrance. Use an emollient. An emollient is a plain, unscented moisturiser. You can also use it instead of soap. This advice works whatever is behind the dryness. That could be hormones, a skin condition or a product that irritates. Not sure of the cause? See Why is my vulva dry, itchy or sore?

What should I wash my vulva with?

The British Association of Dermatologists says wash your vulva once a day at most. Washing more often can make dryness and irritation worse. Use your hand, not a flannel. Use an emollient instead of soap. Then pat dry with a soft towel. Avoid soap, shower gel and bubble bath. Also avoid perfumed intimate washes, wet wipes, feminine sprays, talc and antiseptics.

Keep fragrance away from anything that touches your vulva. That includes pads, liners, toilet paper and lubricants. It also includes the washing powder and fabric conditioner you use for your underwear.

What is the best cream or moisturiser for a dry vulva and intimate area?

For dry skin around the vulva, dermatologists usually prefer an ointment to a cream. Ointments are greasier. They hold moisture in better. They also tend to have fewer preservatives. Creams and lotions are more likely to irritate. Choose something unscented with a short ingredient list. Use it as often as you need. A thin layer before you pee can also act as a barrier.

Can I use Vaseline on my vulva?

Yes, on the outside. Vaseline is petroleum jelly, also called white soft paraffin. UK skin specialists name it as a suitable ointment for vulval skin. The British Association of Dermatologists suggests it as a barrier for women with lichen sclerosus. The Primary Care Dermatology Society lists it with other plain ointments for everyday vulval care. It's cheap, unscented and unlikely to irritate. Two things to know. It's very greasy. And like all oil-based products, it can weaken latex condoms and diaphragms.

Are there natural remedies for a dry vulva?

Plant oils and botanical balms work as emollients too. Some people prefer how they feel. There's no evidence they work better than a plain ointment. And natural doesn't always mean gentle. The Primary Care Dermatology Society warns that "natural and organic products can cause problems too". If you try one, choose an unscented, water-free formula. Patch test it on your inner arm first. Stop if it stings. If dryness keeps coming back, Why is my vulva dry, itchy or sore? covers the common causes.

What else helps?

Loose cotton underwear helps. So does avoiding tight jeans, leggings and tights where you can. Sleeping without underwear gives the skin a break. Unperfumed pads, liners and toilet paper are kinder. Trimming pubic hair irritates less than shaving.

What about dryness inside the vagina?

Vulval moisturisers are for the outside. Dryness inside the vagina is usually down to low oestrogen. A vaginal moisturiser used regularly helps more, with a lubricant for sex. See Vaginal dryness treatment: menopause, perimenopause and after giving birth.

When should I see a GP?

See a GP if dryness doesn't get better within a few weeks. Also see a GP if it comes with itching that won't settle, pain during sex, bleeding, unusual discharge, sores or skin changes such as white patches.

References

British Association of Dermatologists, "Care of vulval skin," Patient Information Leaflet (updated May 2023) https://www.skinhealthinfo.org.uk/condition/care-of-vulval-skin/

British Association of Dermatologists, "Lichen sclerosus in females," Patient Information Leaflet (updated September 2026) https://www.skinhealthinfo.org.uk/condition/lichen-sclerosus-in-females/

Primary Care Dermatology Society, "Vulval care," Patient Information Leaflet (May 2024) https://www.pcds.org.uk/files/pils/Vulval-care-PIL-for-download-May-24_2025-01-31-124050_hrov.pdf

NHS, "Vaginal dryness," (reviewed July 2025) https://www.nhs.uk/symptoms/vaginal-dryness/