In summer, contact with pool water, salt, sand, and a damp swimsuit can be uncomfortable for the skin of the vulva. Changing when you can, rinsing the external area with fresh water, and drying without rubbing are simple ways to keep it comfortable. At La Maleta Roja, we talk about this every summer in our talks, because this part of the body also deserves attention.
The vulva is the external part of the genitals; the vagina is the internal canal and does not need to be washed inside. Knowing the difference helps you care for the skin without resorting to vaginal douching or applying products where they don't belong.
Why summer can irritate the intimate area
Chlorinated water can irritate sensitive skin. At the beach, salt and sand residue can also cause discomfort, especially if there is friction. Staying in damp clothes for too long can increase discomfort.
That doesn't mean that swimming necessarily causes an infection. Itching, stinging, or changes in discharge can have different causes, and they shouldn't automatically be attributed to chlorine or a wet swimsuit.
Signs to pay attention to
- Itching or stinging after swimming.
- Redness on the vulva or groin.
- A feeling of dryness or tightness.
- Discomfort or pain during intercourse.
- Changes in discharge or odor.
- Stinging when urinating or needing to urinate more frequently.
If the discomfort persists, recurs, or worsens, consult a healthcare professional. If you develop a fever, severe pain, sores, or pain when urinating, don't ignore it or self-medicate for suspected thrush.
Practical tips
- Change out of your wet swimsuit when you can, especially if it feels uncomfortable.
- Rinse the vulva with fresh water after the sea or pool to remove salt, sand, or chlorine residue. Only on the outside.
- Pat dry with a clean, soft towel, without rubbing.
- Choose breathable clothing and avoid very tight garments if you notice irritation.
- Maintain gentle hygiene, without excessive washing, perfumes, or vaginal douching. You don't need a specific intimate gel just because it's summer.
- Do not apply after-sun products or body cosmetics to the genital mucosa. If you use an intimate care product, follow its instructions and stop using it if it causes irritation.
Just between us
When we ask in our talks who puts on after-sun after the beach, almost every hand goes up. When we ask who cares for their vulva, of course not everyone does, and many hadn't even considered that it might need special care. And it does: it's delicate skin, rarely exposed to the air and almost always enclosed between tight pants and nylon panties. All of that affects its health, even if we don't see it.
You don't just have to care for what's visible, but also what's not. Because you can feel it.
Frequently asked questions
Can chlorine in the pool cause vaginal infections?
It can irritate sensitive skin, but irritation is not the same as an infection. If you have persistent itching, changes in discharge, or recurring discomfort, consult a professional to identify the cause.
Is seawater good for the intimate area?
It is not a treatment for dryness or infections. If salt or sand residue bothers you, rinse the vulva with fresh water and pat dry gently.
Why does my vulva itch after the pool?
It could be due to irritation from chlorinated water, moisture, or friction, but there are other possible causes. If the itching persists, worsens, or is accompanied by changes in discharge, consult a professional.
Is it bad to keep on a wet swimsuit?
Prolonged moisture and friction can increase discomfort on sensitive skin. Changing can improve comfort, but wearing a wet swimsuit doesn't mean you're going to develop thrush.
How should I wash my intimate area in summer?
Wash the vulva gently, only on the outside, with warm water. Avoid rubbing, excessive washing, scented products, and vaginal douching.
Can I have sex after the beach?
Yes, if you feel like it and have no discomfort. Remove any sand and salt residue from the external area. If you need lubrication, use a product compatible with the condoms and accessories you use. If it hurts, stop.
How to care for intimate dryness in summer?
Not all areas need the same product: the skin of the vulva and the inside of the vagina are different. If dryness persists, consult about the proper care and use each product only in the area indicated by its manufacturer.
Care without rushing
If you want to learn about an option from our collection, you can view the Intim Oil product page and its directions for use. A cosmetic intimate care product is not a substitute for a healthcare assessment if you have itching, pain, or suspect an infection.
