Editor’s Picks: 9 Vaginal Moisturizers and Lubricants That Ease Vaginal Dryness

Vaginal dryness can affect women at different stages throughout their lives. This common condition is sometimes accompanied by a burning or itching, vaginal bleeding, recurrent vaginal infections, UTIs, urgent or painful urination, and/or pain during sex. "The most common causes include lack of estrogen from perimenopause or menopause," said Erica Montes, MD, a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist in Scottsdale, Arizona. Dryness can also occur when women nurse during the period immediately following childbirth, she added. Other triggers include "long-term antihistamine use, certain medical conditions such as Sjögren's Syndrome, and even some hormonal birth control pills.”

Thankfully there are remedies available. For some women, hormonal treatments prescribed by a healthcare provider can offer relief. Over-the-counter products, like vaginal lubricants and moisturizers, can further help to hydrate the vagina. "Being evaluated by your gynecologist or women's healthcare provider is key,” said Dr. Montes. They will likely have you undergo a physical and review your medical and gynecological history, along with your age and medications, ruling out infections or causes for the dryness. This will help determine your best treatment options.

If you choose a vaginal moisturizer or lubricant, there are a number of types available,  including suppositories, creams, lotions, and gels. Dr. Montes said that  over-the-counter moisturizers are typically recommended for use twice a week, while lubricants can be used as often as needed.

Whatever product you choose, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions. If you experience any irritation, stop using it and check in with your healthcare provider. 

Here are our editor's picks for vaginal moisturizers and lubricant.

Replens Long-Lasting Vaginal Moisturizer

Replens Long-Lasting Vaginal Moisturizer comes with prefilled applicators and can be used around twice a week to help maintain vaginal moisture. If you follow the recommended dosage that should negate the need to apply it before intimacy. But if you want to do so anyway, the brand recommends applying at least two hours before intercourse. 

The Honey Pot Company Organic Moisturizing Lubricant

If you prefer a plant-derived option, consider the Honey Pot Company Organic Moisturizing Lubricant. This glycerin-free water-based lube isn’t sticky, and the brand states that it can be used with condoms. Try it in two flavors: strawberry and agave.

Revaree

Made with hyaluronic acid— the key molecule involved in skin moisture—Revaree is a suppository that Dr. Montes often suggests "for patients who are considering non-hormonal options." It’s applicator-free, which makes it easier for those with existing dryness to use, as it reduces the odds of further vaginal irritation.

Stripes Vag of Honor

The importance of sexual wellness has been making the news recently, and actor Naomi Watts is among those highlighting  the need for conversations around perimenopause and menopause. Watts experienced early menopause (along with night sweats and dry, itchy skin), and founded the Stripes product line to help support some of the transitions women experience from hormonal changes. The brand’s Vag of Honor contains ingredients that preserve vaginal moisture while being fragrance-free.

PH-D Feminine Health Boric Acid Vaginal Suppositories

 Another product on Dr. Montes’ list is pH-D Feminine Health Boric Acid Vaginal Suppositories, which she said ”provide moisturizing benefits with vitamin E and coconut oil.” The brand touts the fact that it is women-owned, and that its products are made “for women, by women.” Its suppositories contain 600 milligrams of boric acid, a compound that Health.com has previously reported to have antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties.

CVS Health Vaginal Moisturizing Suppositories

The great thing about a drugstore-brand product is that it frequently offers excellent value for the price. CVS Health Vaginal Moisturizing Suppositories boast a prolonged-release hyaluronic acid derivative that helps lubricate your intimate tissue area.

Womaness Daily V Soothe

When Sally Mueller and Michelle Jacobs founded Womaness in 2021, they wanted to  create more positivity around menopause, which often brings with it hot and cold flashes, brain fog, vaginal dryness, low libido, and interrupted sleep. Their water-based Daily V Soothe is made with hyaluronic acid, and doesn’t contain silicone or soy. It can be used to prep for intimacy or as an external daily moisturizer.

Ina Nourishing Oil Elixir

Avoid undesirable ingredients such as parabens, phthalates, sulfates, mineral oil, lanolin, paraffin, and petroleum by using Ina Nourishing Oil Elixir, a plant-based formula that moisturizes your intimate external skin. The vegan formulation keeps it supple and helps prevent ingrown hairs caused by shaving or waxing.

Lola Personal Lubricant

Water-based with a silky feel, Lola Personal Lubricant is unscented and formulated without parabens, glycerin, synthetic colorants, or petrochemicals. The bottle’s one-click pump makes using lubricant easy and mess-free.

This article was fact checked by Melinda Dodd.