Can I Use Hyaluronic Acid for Vaginal Dryness?

You may have heard of the benefits of using hyaluronic acid in your skincare, but did you know you can also use hyaluronic acid for vaginal dryness? Not only can it keep the skin on your face plump and hydrated, but it can also do wonders for vaginal tissues.

Vaginal dryness can affect women at any age, but it’s most common in perimenopause and menopause. As you approach menopause, your body starts producing less and less estrogen. Estrogen is vital for vaginal health because it keeps the vaginal mucosa thick, elastic, and lubricated. 

Reduced estrogen levels can cause many uncomfortable symptoms, including vaginal atrophy, burning, irritation, and pain during sex — collectively called genitourinary syndrome in menopause (GSM). Research shows that around 65-84% of women going through menopause experience GSM. Women can experience estrogen deficiency at other points in their life as well, for example when breastfeeding or undergoing cancer therapy.

So, how can hyaluronic acid help? Keep reading to learn more. 

What is hyaluronic acid? 

Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance produced by the body. It’s found in your joints, eyes, and more importantly, skin. It’s gooey and slippery and acts like a natural lubricant. It’s also a humectant, which means it binds to water to help your skin retain moisture — that’s why it’s so common in hydrating skincare products. 

When applied internally to the vagina, hyaluronic acid works by sticking to the vaginal epithelial cells and retaining water, which both hydrates and protects the vaginal epithelial cells. 

Treatments for vaginal dryness

Topical treatments for genitourinary syndrome of menopause include vaginal estrogen and hormone-free vaginal moisturizers — including ones containing hyaluronic acid. 

Vaginal estrogen and vaginal moisturizers work differently to treat vaginal dryness. Vaginal estrogen is designed to release a low dose of estrogen directly into the vaginal blood supply, while a vaginal moisturizer (many of which contain hyaluronic acid) rehydrates the vaginal tissues and protects them from friction and inflammation. 

Vaginal moisturizers come in the form of a suppository or a gel that you can insert with an applicator. These moisturizers are specially designed to stick to your vaginal tissue for several days, providing long-lasting dryness relief. You can use a vaginal moisturizer regularly, whether you're planning to have sex or not. They're not to be confused with lube, which you use during sex and only provide temporary relief — although everyone, including non-menopausal women, would benefit from using lube!

Should I use hyaluronic acid for vaginal dryness?

Research has shown that hyaluronic acid can be a great alternative to vaginal estrogen therapy. While admittedly there aren't a ton of studies on hyaluronic acid for vaginal dryness, recent evidence has found that applying it directly to the vagina can provide relief from dryness and irritation and performs well compared to low-dose vaginal estrogen. It’s also a great alternative for women who don’t want to take vaginal estrogen or hormones. 

According to a systematic review of nine studies, hyaluronic acid was found to be beneficial for postmenopausal women suffering from vaginal dryness, and all nine studies reported an improvement in vaginal dryness, itching, and sexual function. In addition, six studies showed an improvement in vaginal burning.

Hyaluronic acid has also been shown to improve vaginal dryness and pain during sex in women undergoing cancer treatment who can't take estrogen therapy. 

There hasn't been any research conducted yet on the effects of hyaluronic acid on the vaginal microbiome. So, we can't say for sure whether it can help replenish the levels of Lactobacilli in the vagina, which tend to decrease in menopause. Additionally, we can't be certain that hyaluronic acid can reduce the risk of urinary tract infections or vaginal infections, unlike estrogen. 

That said, vaginal moisturizers containing hyaluronic acid are specifically formulated to go inside the vagina, so it’s unlikely that they’ll alter your vaginal pH. 

Evvy's Hyaluronic Acid Suppositories have been designed to hydrate and restore the vaginal lining. They provide long-lasting, hormone-free relief from dryness, itching, and painful intimacy. 

We’ve put together a simple yet effective formulation that features prescription-grade hyaluronic acid, with no harsh irritants or additives. So they boost hydration and elasticity, without harming your vaginal microbiome or natural pH levels. 

Whether you're navigating hormonal changes like menopause or experiencing dryness from medications like certain birth controls, our suppositories are perfect for every stage of life. 

If you’re dealing with vaginal dryness, speak to your healthcare provider about the best course of action, and whether hyaluronic acid might be a good solution for you.

FAQ

Can you use hyaluronic acid on private parts?

Yes, hyaluronic acid can be used in the vaginal area. Hyaluronic acid is known for its hydrating and soothing properties, making it a common ingredient in vaginal moisturizers designed to alleviate dryness, especially for women experiencing menopause or hormonal changes. However, it's important to use products specifically formulated for vaginal use — like Evvy’s Hyaluronic Acid Suppositories and Soothing Vulva Cream. Avoid using general skincare products containing hyaluronic acid on your private parts, as they may include additional ingredients that could cause irritation. If you’re considering using a new product, it’s always a good idea to consult a healthcare provider for guidance.

Is hyaluronic acid a safe lubricant?

That depends on what you mean by “lubricant”. Hyaluronic acid can be a safe and effective added ingredient in lubricants, particularly for those dealing with vaginal dryness. Its hydrating properties help retain moisture and enhance comfort during intercourse. That said, hyaluronic acid alone isn’t the best thing to use during sex. Water-based or silicone-based lubricants that don't contain glycerin will do a much better job of preventing friction and increasing pleasurable sensation during penetrative sex. A combination of vaginal hyaluronic acid (before and after sex) and lube (during sex) is the best option. 

What is the best way to moisturize your private area?

The best way to moisturize your private area is to use products specifically designed for intimate use. Opt for gentle, fragrance-free, and pH-balanced vaginal moisturizers or creams — such as Evvy’s Soothing Vulva Cream, which contains ingredients clinically studied for their efficacy, such as hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and aloe vera. Before applying any moisturizer, clean your vulva with warm water and a mild, unscented soap. Pat the area dry gently with a clean towel, avoiding harsh rubbing. Apply the moisturizer externally to the vulva, not inside the vagina (unless the product is explicitly designed for internal use, such as Evvy’s Hyaluronic Acid Suppositories). You should avoid using lotions or creams intended for other parts of the body, as they may contain fragrances, preservatives, or other ingredients that can irritate sensitive skin. If you experience chronic dryness or discomfort, consult a healthcare provider, as they may recommend specific treatments like prescription estrogen creams or other tailored solutions.