Lichen Sclerosus & Vulvar Dryness: What Moisturizers Can Help?
If you have lichen sclerosus (LS), you know how uncomfortable vulvar dryness, itching and irritation can be. Finding something gentle that helps keep the vulvar skin moisturized can make a real difference in everyday comfort.
At NewLife Naturals, we hear from women with lichen sclerosus who use our vulva balms like JButter and tell us how much it has helped with their dryness and comfort.
Moisturizing and protecting sensitive vulvar skin can be an important part of everyday care for women with LS. So, what should you look for in a moisturizer for lichen sclerosus, what should you avoid, and where can a vulvar balm fit into your routine?
Why Does Lichen Sclerosus Cause Vulvar Dryness and Discomfort?
Lichen sclerosus is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that most commonly affects the genital area. It can cause vulvar itching, soreness, burning, sensitive or fragile skin, and discomfort during intimacy.
Because the vulvar skin can become especially sensitive, everyday friction from clothing, exercise, sexual activity and even certain personal-care products may add to the discomfort.
That’s why gentle everyday vulvar care can be so important.
Can You Use a Moisturizer for Lichen Sclerosus?
Yes. Emollients—products that moisturize, soften and protect the skin, are commonly recommended as part of vulvar skin care for women with lichen sclerosus.
Keeping the vulvar area moisturized can help support dry, sensitive skin while providing a protective barrier against everyday dryness and friction.
For many women, the challenge is simply finding a vulvar moisturizer that is gentle enough to use regularly.
What Should You Look for in a Vulvar Moisturizer?
When you’re dealing with sensitive vulvar skin, simple is often better.
Look for a vulvar moisturizer or balm that is:
- Made specifically for external vulvar skin
- Made with simple, naturally derived moisturizing ingredients
- Free from added fragrance
- Free from essential oils
- Free from parabens
- Free from unnecessary dyes and irritating additives
- Gentle enough for regular use
- Designed to moisturize, soften and protect delicate skin
It’s also a good idea to avoid heavily fragranced soaps, scented wipes, feminine sprays and other products that may irritate already-sensitive vulvar skin.
Why Women With Lichen Sclerosus Use JButter
JButter was created specifically for dry, sensitive external vulvar skin.
Its simple, hormone-free formula combines jojoba, moringa, tamanu and other key ingredients to moisturize, soften and protect delicate vulvar skin—without added fragrance, essential oils, parabens or unnecessary additives.
Women with lichen sclerosus are among the customers who use our vulvar balms, and we’ve heard from many who tell us the added moisture has helped them feel significantly more comfortable.
JButter can be used as part of an everyday vulvar care routine—after showering, before bed or whenever the external vulvar skin needs additional moisture and comfort.
What Else Can Help With Lichen Sclerosus Discomfort?
Small changes can make a difference when vulvar skin is particularly sensitive.
Avoid fragranced cleansers and other potential irritants, be gentle when washing and drying the area, and try to minimize unnecessary friction from tight clothing.
If intimacy is uncomfortable, a personal lubricant can also help reduce friction during sexual activity. If you experience persistent pain, tearing, worsening symptoms or noticeable changes in the vulvar skin, talk with your healthcare professional.
The Bottom Line
Lichen sclerosus can leave vulvar skin feeling dry, sensitive and uncomfortable. Keeping the skin moisturized and protected can be an important part of everyday vulvar care.
If you’re looking for a simple, hormone-free vulvar balm made with naturally derived oils and without added fragrance or essential oils, JButter is an easy addition to your everyday vulvar care routine.
And for many women with lichen sclerosus who already use our balms, that extra moisture and comfort has made a meaningful difference.
References
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Kirtschig G, et al. EuroGuiDerm Guideline on Lichen Sclerosus — Treatment of Lichen Sclerosus. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology. 2024.
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Kirtschig G, et al. Evidence- and Consensus-Based Guideline on Lichen Sclerosus. Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft. 2026.
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National Health Service (NHS). Lichen Sclerosus: Overview, Treatment and Self-Care Guidance.