In recent years, the focus on the microbiome and its crucial role in overall health has permeated various sectors, including intimate care. This shift has brought about a revolutionary approach to vaginal health by emphasising the importance of microbiome-friendly products specifically designed for the delicate vaginal environment. At the forefront of this movement is KIND TO BIOME, dedicated to certifying microbiome-friendly cosmetics and raw materials, and equipping companies with the knowledge to understand the impact of their formulations. With its unique In Vitro + Ex Vivo testing and tailored protocols, KIND TO BIOME is setting new standards in the intimate care industry.
Industry Response and Progress
Recognising the increasing demand for microbiome-friendly intimate care, many brands are making significant strides in this direction. KIND TO BIOME’s certification is becoming a mark of quality in the intimate care industry. The Honey Pot Company is the latest brand to joining the community of certified brands, having earned the certification on a number of their products including four of the brands foaming washes, their collection of body cleansers, and four of their wipe variations.
The Honey Pot’s existing and ongoing dedication to high-quality products and access to vaginal wellness education aligns with KIND TO BIOME’s commitment to the highest standards of microbiome care for safe and effective intimacy products.
“Making sure our products are safe, gentle and microbiome friendly has always been our priority at The Honey Pot; now as the first intimate care brand to achieve Kind to Biome certification we can pave the way for greater understanding of the importance of maintaining a healthy, balanced microbiome. We are starting with 18 products in our portfolio having the certification and hope to add more in the future,” said Beatrice Dixon, CEO + Co-Founder of The Honey Pot Company.
Understanding the Need for Microbiome-Friendly Intimate Care
“The vaginal microbiome is a complex ecosystem of microorganisms that plays a vital role in maintaining physiological functions, immunity, and overall health,” explains Leo Salvi, Head of Science at KIND TO BIOME. “This ecosystem can be influenced by hormonal changes, hygiene practices, and even the use of intimate care products. The delicate balance of the vaginal microbiota can be disrupted by harsh ingredients, preservatives, and other common ingredients found in many intimate care products. The disruption of this ecosystem, called dysbiosis, is linked with a variety of issues, from irritation to more severe conditions” further explains Leo Salvi, Head of Science at KIND TO BIOME.
Given the sensitivity and importance of vaginal health, it’s critical that intimate care products are formulated to maintain a healthy microbiome. This is where KIND TO BIOME's certification comes into play. Through world-class In Vitro + Ex Vivo testing and specific protocols designed for intimate care, KIND TO BIOME ensures that products meet a stringent standard of microbiome-friendliness, considering the unique needs of different areas.
Aligning with Intimate Care Formulation Philosophy
Unlike most conventional brands, The Honey Pot has led the vaginal care industry with a formulation philosophy that centres around gentleness and minimalism. They aim to create products that are as mild as possible, often minimising the use of harsh, stringent preservatives and avoiding functionally unnecessary ingredients like perfumes. By selecting gentle, effective alternatives for every ingredient from emollients and surfactants to preservatives, the goal is to ensure safety and efficacy. Achieving microbiome-friendliness aligns seamlessly with this philosophy but sets an even higher standard.
KIND TO BIOME's certification provides a clear pathway for brands to meet these elevated standards, ensuring that their products are not only gentle but also respect the vaginal microbiome. Brands knowledgeable in this field are well-prepared to undertake the process.
The KIND TO BIOME certification highlights a broader trend in the wellness industry, where leading brands increasingly prioritise microbiome-focused formulations. This shift is driven by a combination of consumer demand, scientific advancements, and a growing understanding of the microbiome’s importance. As more brands follow suit, the availability of microbiome-friendly intimate care products is set to expand, providing consumers with better options for their health.
