Patient information: Vulval skin is sensitive, and may react to irritants such as soaps. You should avoid all contact of the vulva skin with soap, shampoo, bath salts, bubble bath, perfumes and personal deodorants, wet wipes, textile dyes, sanitary wear, detergents and fabric softeners. Wash the vulva every day, but avoid washing excessively. Aqueous cream BP or emulsifying ointment BP are examples of bland emollients that can be used both as a soap substitute and moisturiser. Either formulation can also be used when bathing. Avoid tight-fitting clothes and materials that irritate, for example, nylon. Wear cotton underwear. Avoid the use of spermicidally-lubricated condoms. Try not to scratch, keep fingernails short, and consider wearing cotton gloves at night to stop scratching in your sleep.