The Worst Advices We’ve Seen on TikTok About Intimate Hygiene

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While social media platforms like TikTok are great for starting conversations about health, they are also a breeding ground for misinformation. Intimate hygiene is a delicate balance, and using harmful DIY hacks can do more harm than good.

If you want safe, expert-backed intimate care, choose pH-balanced, microbiome-friendly products like Undecimber’s Advanced Intimate Wash, designed to keep you fresh and confident without disrupting your natural balance.

Introduction

TikTok has become a hotspot for health and wellness trends, but not all advice shared on the platform is safe—especially when it comes to intimate hygiene. While some influencers promote sound hygiene tips, others spread misinformation that can be harmful to your health.

In this article, we’ll debunk some of the worst intimate hygiene advice we’ve seen on TikTok and explain what science-backed experts actually recommend.

1. Using Vinegar or Lemon Juice to “Balance pH”

Some TikTok users claim that applying vinegar or lemon juice can help restore vaginal pH or eliminate odor:

• Both vinegar (pH ~2.5) and lemon juice (pH ~2.0) are highly acidic and can irritate sensitive skin.
• They can kill beneficial Lactobacilli bacteria, which help protect against infections.
• Disrupting the natural pH can lead to bacterial vaginosis (BV) and yeast infections.

What to Do Instead:

• Use pH-balanced intimate washes (pH 3.5-4.5 for women, 5.5-6.5 for men) to support the natural microbiome.
• Avoid DIY acidic solutions, as they can cause burning, irritation, and imbalances.

(Source: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists)

2. Steaming Your Intimate Area

Vaginal steaming, promoted as a detox treatment, involves sitting over hot herbal steam. While this trend has gained traction, it has no scientific backing and can be harmful:

• Steam does not “cleanse” the vagina—it is self-cleaning.
• Exposure to high temperatures can cause burns, dryness, and irritation.
• Herbal ingredients used in steaming may trigger allergic reactions.

What to Do Instead:

• Let your body’s natural cleansing system work—the vagina produces discharge to keep itself clean.
• If you experience unusual odor or irritation, consult a gynecologist instead of using steaming methods.

(Source: Mayo Clinic)

3. Applying Perfume or Scented Products “Down There”

Many TikTok influencers recommend using fragrance sprays, essential oils, or scented wipes to “stay fresh,” but these can be disastrous for intimate health:

• Fragrances contain alcohol and chemicals that cause irritation and dryness.
• Can disrupt the natural microbiome, increasing the risk of infections and allergic reactions.
• Strong scents can mask underlying health issues (like BV or infections), delaying proper treatment.

What to Do Instead:

• Use fragrance-free, dermatologist-approved intimate cleansers.
• Wear breathable cotton underwear to minimize sweat and odor buildup.
• If there’s an unusual or strong odor, consult a healthcare professional.

(Source: International Journal of Women’s Dermatology)

4. Using Baking Soda to “Neutralize Odor”

Some users promote baking soda baths as a way to control odor or infections: 

• Baking soda (pH ~9) is alkaline and can disrupt the natural acidic balance, making infections more likely.
• It removes protective bacteria, leading to irritation and dryness.
• There is no medical evidence that baking soda is beneficial for intimate hygiene.

What to Do Instead:

• Maintain good hygiene with mild, pH-balanced washes.
• Address odor concerns with diet, breathable clothing, and proper hydration.
• Seek professional medical advice if odor persists.

(Source: Journal of Clinical Microbiology)

5. Using Household Items as DIY Lubricants

TikTok has recommended various dangerous alternatives to store-bought lubricants, such as:

• Coconut oil (can disrupt microbiome and encourage yeast overgrowth)
• Aloe vera gel (often contains additives and preservatives that cause irritation)
• Baby oil or petroleum jelly (can increase risk of infections and condom breakage)

What to Do Instead:

• Use water-based or silicone-based lubricants that are gynecologist-approved.
• Avoid oily or sugar-based substances, which can alter pH and promote bacterial growth.

(Source: American Sexual Health Association)