Gynecologist explains the main types of intimate whitening

The darkening of the genital region is common, happens for several reasons and does not harm intimate health. However, for aesthetic reasons, many women are turning to intimate whitening methods. Gynecologist and obstetrician Dr. Nádia Pavarini (CRM 132077), from the Pantheon clinic, explained the main techniques and potential contraindications of the procedure. Follow the article!

What is intimate whitening

According to Dr. Nádia Pavarini, intimate whitening is performed for aesthetic reasons. Some factors, “such as shaving, friction with underwear, riding or cycling sports, constant use of jeans or tight pants, etc.”, irritate the inner thigh region, groin and vulva. In this way, “the organism responds with pigmentation, that is, the darkening” of the skin.

Darkening does not hurt and much less affects intimate health. In some women, it happens mildly and doesn’t bother. In others, however, the accentuated pigmentation “can generate shyness, fear of wearing a bathing suit or bikini, among other discomforts”.

How is intimate whitening done?

According to the gynecologist, intimate whitening “consists of the application of various techniques to reverse hyperpigmentation of the vulva, groin and inner thigh”. It is important to clarify that the purpose of the procedure is to improve pigmentation – “which does not necessarily mean returning to natural skin tone. In addition, the factors that trigger hyperpigmentation will not cease to exist”, that is, over time, maintenance or retreatment is necessary.

Types of intimate whitening

The gynecologist explains that “there are several techniques for intimate whitening, ranging from whitening creams to lasers. The indication is made by the doctor depending on the skin type (phototype) and the degree of hyperpigmentation”. The professional listed the main methods and explained how each one works. See below:

whitening creams

According to Dr. Nádia Pavarini, whitening creams can be manipulated according to medical prescription or bought ready-made in pharmacies. “The application is daily, once or twice a day, according to the compound used. They are usually indicated for initial cases or as maintenance after other treatments”.

It is valid to inform that the effects of the creams vary according to each case. Therefore, despite being sold in pharmacies, it is necessary to use them under medical supervision. Also, some substances present in these products can cause adverse reactions.

chemical peels

Peelings respond well to whitening the intimate region, especially on fair skin, and cost an average of R$500 per session. According to the specialist, “they are chemical agents applied directly to the skin of the vulva and other regions, promoting the destruction of the most superficial (and darkest) layer of the skin”. After the procedure, “scaling is expected to occur within 7 days, as with facial peels”.

The gynecologist informs that “more than one application is usually necessary and the sessions should be performed with an interval of 30 days on average”. In addition, she warns that peelings “should be used with great care on darker skin tones (phototypes 3, 4 and 5), as they are more subject to the rebound effect (initial improvement, followed by a more intense darkening).

As no two people are the same, some women can get great results with “one peeling session while others need 3 laser sessions. The result is individual”. Regarding care, “if there is a burning sensation after the peeling, wait for the process to cool down before having sexual intercourse”. In addition, “moisturizers or soothing lotions can be prescribed to help with a faster repair”, explains the professional.

Laser

The laser acts mechanically for cell renewal and has a more controlled effect than peeling. “The depth it reaches can be adjusted according to the parameters of the machine”, explains the specialist. After the procedure, “the most superficial layer of the skin peels off (the so-called “peeling effect”) to be replaced by a newer layer closer to the usual skin tone”.

The doctor adds that “this technology has a greater whitening potential than peeling, bringing faster results. The number of sessions depends on how pigmented the skin is and the result after the first application.” The interval between them is monthly and the value varies from R$ 1,800 to R$ 2,500 per session.

It is also common to associate techniques to enhance results. “For example, laser with peeling in the same application or microneedling with peeling to improve drug penetration”. About after-laser care, “sexual abstinence for 7 days is recommended”. As with the peeling procedure, the practitioner may prescribe soothing moisturizers or lotions to aid in the healing process.

homemade intimate whitening

As for the at-home intimate whitening, the specialist comments that “exfoliants suitable for the intimate region can be used. They will act on the proposal to mechanically remove the most superficial and darkest layer of the skin”. However, “care must be taken with the intensity of the application so as not to cause lesions and injuries, as inflammation is a factor that causes the skin to darken”.

As for contraindications, in general, Dr. Nádia Pavarini warns that bleaching should not be performed “in the presence of infection or genital injury, active cancer or during pregnancy”. In addition, “women who have herpes need to use preventive medication before and after the procedures. Therefore, it is important to notify the professional who will undergo treatment”.

The woman constantly suffers from aesthetic pressures, but it is essential to emphasize that there is no standard of beauty even for the vulva. The female genital organ can have different sizes, shapes and skin and tone variations. The most important thing is to always be mindful of your health. So, inform yourself about the importance of performing gynecological exams and take care of yourself!