There’s nothing more relaxing after a long day than a soak in the tub (glass of wine optional!) and if it makes us feel clean and smell great too, then it’s a bonus. Bath bombs have, over the years, become increasingly popular, but despite being a treat to watch as they fizz in the water, as well as smelling wonderful, this bath-time favourite might actually be bad for your body. Oh no!
We’re sorry to have to be the ones to break it to you, but because bath bombs often contain concentrated amounts of perfumes and other chemicals, this can wreak havoc on the good bacteria in your vagina that keep our pH levels balanced. When these levels are upset, it can lead to all sorts of uncomfortable conditions, including yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis, and can also irritate the vulva and skin in that very sensitive area.
Is there a solution? Making your own from scratch is not only easy and economical, but also allows you to control how much perfume you add to the mix, essential oils being preferable. Alternatively, if you do use the occasional shop-bought bath bomb, proceed with caution and make sure you use clean, running tap water to rinse your nether regions afterwards so that the harsh chemicals are washed away and not left behind, as they could cause irritation. Opt for ones that contain natural ingredients, even if they cost a little more. Your body is, after all, your temple, so it deserves to be treated that way.
Photo: iStock/Roxana_ro
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