INTIMASCORE ™
THE FIRST EUROPEAN SYSTEM OF INTIMATE TRANSPARENCY FOR LUBRICANTS AND SEXUAL PRODUCTS
IntimaScore was born as an initiative for formulation transparency: so that consumers, professionals, and media can interpret intimate composition with clear, comparable, and auditable criteria.
Why IntimaScore exists
Many users choose a lubricant based on sensation or duration without knowing if their formulation might be harsh on sensitive mucous membranes. IntimaScore aims to fill that gap with a more technical, informative and careful approach, separating intimate safety and duration into two independent scales.
How the system works
IntimaScore™ (1-100) assess the microbiological and tissue safety. Emphasis is placed on osmotic balance, support of physiological pH, and the absence of irritants.
DuraScore™ (1-100) evaluate the persistence of glide. Silicones and oils often score high on longevity; water-based ones depend on their moisturising architecture.
Important: Both grades are independent and not averaged.
IntimaScore™
- Osmotic charge: excess glycerin/glycols may increase the risk of discomfort in sensitive mucous membranes.
- pH: The presence of lactic/citric acid can support vaginal compatibility.
- Irritants: the presence of perfumes, drying alcohols, and preservatives with higher irritating potential is penalised.
- Scale: 1 to 100, where a higher score implies a better expected tolerance profile.
DuraScore™
- Stamina: Measure how long it keeps real lubrication in use.
- Silicone/Oil-Based: they tend to keep their glide for longer.
- Water-based: Variable performance depending on moisturisers, viscosity, and volatility.
- Scale: 1 to 100, where a higher score means longer-lasting glide.
IntimaScore Calculator
Paste the list of ingredients (separated by commas or one per line) and instantly calculate the IntimaScore.
Here you'll see the calculated result, along with the INCI analysis notes.
What does IntimaScore analyze?
| {EJEMPLO} | That evaluates |
|---|---|
| pH fisiologico | Potential compatibility with natural intimate balance, especially in a vaginal environment. |
| Osmolalidad | Potential risk of dryness or irritation when osmotic humectants are high up in the list. |
| Ingredientes potencialmente irritantes | Presence of perfumes, colourings, coolants, vasodilators or other components with potentially higher sensitivity. |
| Conservantes | Type and potential aggressiveness of the preservative system. |
| Activos calmantes y botanicos | Ingredients with a gentler profile like aloe vera, chamomile, or soothing agents. |
| Transparencia formulativa | Quality of information available on composition and technical features. |
| Compatibilidad intima | Overall balance evaluation for frequent use or sensitive mucosa. |
| DuraScore | Estimated glide persistence during use. |
| Complejidad de formulacion | If the formula is effective or incorporates multiple sensory additives. |
| Tipo de base | Potential impact of water-based, silicone, oil or other technologies on comfort and compatibility. |
INCI Analysis Rules
- IntimaScore™ and DuraScore™ are analysed separately.
- They are not averaged or offset against each other.
- A product can be excellent in one way and discreet in another.
- The final recommendation depends on the context of use and individual sensitivity.
Cross interpretation
| Setting | Quick read | Indicative usage profile |
|---|---|---|
| High IntimaScore™ + High DuraScore™ | Good balance between endurance and duration. | General use, longer sessions or less need for reapplication |
| High IntimaScore™ + Low DuraScore™ | Smooth profile but less enduring | Sensitive folks who prioritise comfort over longevity |
| IntimaScore™ low + DuraScore™ high | Robust glide with enhanced tolerance monitoring | Occasional use with individual response tracking |
| IntimaScore™ low + DuraScore™ low | Globally limited performance | It's worth considering better-formulated alternatives |
This section is informative and does not replace individual clinical assessment. In cases of recurrent irritation, pain or dysbiosis, consult with gynaecology or clinical sexology.
Lubricants with the best intimate safety profile
A selection of products with the highest scores on IntimaScore™. The score is visible on each card and each product links directly to its detailed page.
Long-lasting glide lubricants
These products stand out on DuraScore™ for their staying power. The card clearly shows the score, and clicking takes you to the full product description.
Compare two IntimaScore™ products
Select two products to see a side-by-side comparison of intimate safety, duration, and relative risk level.
| STRAWBERRIES POCKET Pocket-sized strawberry delight lubricant | SHUNGA DRAGON Orgasm Intensifying Cream with Natural Extracts | |
|---|---|---|
| IntimateScore | 3/100 | 50/100 |
| HardScore | 86/100 | 86/100 |
| IntimateScore Rating | Questionable | Questionable |
| HardScore Rating | Alright | Alright |
| Physiological compatibility | 0/100 | 28/100 |
| Mucosal safety | 0/100 | 29/100 |
| Duration | 86/100 | 86/100 |
| Formulation transparency | 56/100 | 73/100 |
| Critical alerts | 2 | 0 |
| Precautions | 3 | 3 |
| Sensitive domains | Preservatives, Osmolality, Irritation | Osmolality, General reading, Irritation |
| Alert evidence | High 5 | High 2, Medium 1 |
| Balance of evidence | solid evidence | intermediate evidence |
| Price | 0.4 € | 21.95 € |
Detailed alerts · STRAWBERRIES POCKET Pocket-sized strawberry delight lubricant
We detected Imidazolidinyl Urea and classify it as a high-risk preservative for sensitive intimate use.
This factor can influence comfort, tolerance, and user experience in sensitive mucosa depending on use profile.Generated from IntimaScore rule mapping with i18n adaptation by key.IntimaScore is an informational comparative system and does not replace medical diagnosis or individual clinical evaluation.There are 2 osmotic humectants in the INCI top 5 (Glycerin, Propylene Glycol).
This factor can influence comfort, tolerance, and user experience in sensitive mucosa depending on use profile.Generated from IntimaScore rule mapping with i18n adaptation by key.IntimaScore is an informational comparative system and does not replace medical diagnosis or individual clinical evaluation.The formula includes Methylparaben and is penalized versus more modern preservative systems.
This factor can influence comfort, tolerance, and user experience in sensitive mucosa depending on use profile.Generated from IntimaScore rule mapping with i18n adaptation by key.IntimaScore is an informational comparative system and does not replace medical diagnosis or individual clinical evaluation.Propylene Glycol appears high in the INCI list and may increase sensitivity in some users.
This factor can influence comfort, tolerance, and user experience in sensitive mucosa depending on use profile.Generated from IntimaScore rule mapping with i18n adaptation by key.IntimaScore is an informational comparative system and does not replace medical diagnosis or individual clinical evaluation.We detected 2 parabens and reinforce penalty for cumulative risk.
This factor can influence comfort, tolerance, and user experience in sensitive mucosa depending on use profile.Generated from IntimaScore rule mapping with i18n adaptation by key.IntimaScore is an informational comparative system and does not replace medical diagnosis or individual clinical evaluation.Detailed alerts · SHUNGA DRAGON Orgasm Intensifying Cream with Natural Extracts
Osmotic humectants are present in high INCI positions (Glycerin).
This factor can influence comfort, tolerance, and user experience in sensitive mucosa depending on use profile.Generated from IntimaScore rule mapping with i18n adaptation by key.IntimaScore is an informational comparative system and does not replace medical diagnosis or individual clinical evaluation.The formula contains Sucralose, a non-essential additive for functional lubrication.
This factor can influence comfort, tolerance, and user experience in sensitive mucosa depending on use profile.Generated from IntimaScore rule mapping with i18n adaptation by key.IntimaScore is an informational comparative system and does not replace medical diagnosis or individual clinical evaluation.A potentially irritating sensory cocktail was detected: Aroma, Arginine, Benzyl Alcohol.
This factor can influence comfort, tolerance, and user experience in sensitive mucosa depending on use profile.Generated from IntimaScore rule mapping with i18n adaptation by key.IntimaScore is an informational comparative system and does not replace medical diagnosis or individual clinical evaluation.How to interpret the scores
| Rating | Level | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| >= 90 | Unbeatable | Especially gentle formulas for sensitive intimate use. |
| 75-89 | Okay | Good overall balance between intimate safety and functionality. |
| 60-74 | Acceptable | No major alerts, but room for improvement in composition or balance. |
| < 60 | Questionable | Potential not-so-ideal factors for sensitive mucous membranes or frequent use. |
The final interpretation always depends on the context of use, individual sensitivity, and personal response to the product.
Key concepts
Que es la osmolalidad?
La osmolalidad mide la concentracion de particulas disueltas en una formula. En productos intimos, una osmolalidad elevada puede asociarse a sequedad o irritacion en mucosas sensibles. IntimaScore realiza una estimacion indirecta cuando no existe dato oficial de laboratorio.
Por que importa el pH?
El equilibrio fisiologico vaginal depende en parte del pH. Por eso IntimaScore valora de forma positiva las formulas que muestran senales de ajuste con ingredientes reguladores como acido lactico o citrico.
Por que algunos ingredientes penalizan?
Algunos componentes pueden asociarse a mayor sensibilidad en determinadas personas: perfumes, ciertos conservantes, agentes refrescantes, colorantes o humectantes osmoticos en altas concentraciones. No implica que un producto sea malo, pero si puede afectar compatibilidad en perfiles sensibles.
Que son los activos calmantes?
Son ingredientes orientados a una experiencia mas suave, como aloe vera, manzanilla o acido hialuronico. IntimaScore los valora dentro del equilibrio global de la formulacion.
Que significa compatibilidad intima?
Es la lectura global de una formula respecto a mucosa sensible, hidratacion, pH fisiologico, agresividad potencial y complejidad formulativa. IntimaScore ayuda a interpretar ese equilibrio, no a dar un diagnostico clinico.
Que es DuraScore?
DuraScore estima la persistencia de deslizamiento durante el uso. Un producto puede tener alta duracion y menor compatibilidad intima, o al reves. Por eso se muestran dos escalas separadas.
Por que IntimaScore no sustituye consejo medico?
IntimaScore es un sistema informativo y comparativo. No sustituye diagnostico, consejo medico ni evaluacion profesional individual, especialmente ante irritacion persistente, alergias, infecciones o sensibilidad extrema.
Sources and criteria used by IntimaScore
IntimaScore combines INCI analysis, declared composition, scientific literature, and physiological compatibility criteria to generate an indicative comparative reading.
- World Health Organization (WHO): recommendations on mucosa-compatible lubricants and use with condoms.
- Literature on osmolality and vaginal/rectal mucosal health in hyper/isotonic formulations.
- Studies on physiological pH, microbiota and vaginal balance.
- Technical review of cosmetic ingredients and potential irritative effects on sensitive skin and mucosa.
IntimaScore doesn't replace medical diagnosis, clinical evaluation, or official lab tests.
Sector breakdown
Dynamic analysis calculated in real-time on active products with IntimaScore available in VivelaVita's database.
| Analysed data | Outcome |
|---|---|
| Products reviewed | 58 |
| Product ingredients analysed | 496 |
| Uniquely registered ingredients | 143 |
| Products with osmotic moisturizers | 89,7% |
| Top 3 INCI osmotic moisturisers | 84,5% |
| Products with no pH adjuster detected | 46,6% |
| Products with lactic acid detected | 20,7% |
| Products with citric acid detected | 22,4% |
| Products with sensory ingredients | 41,4% |
| Products with botanical or soothing ingredients | 29,3% |
| Products with preservatives detected | 77,6% |
| Silicone-based products detected | 13,8% |
| Average ingredients per product | 8,6 |
Reading: the market is still very focused on sensory experience and duration, while pH, osmolality, and intimate compatibility aren't always communicated with enough clarity.
Main active ingredients
Here's a list of the main ingredients used in lubricants and their scoring system interpretation.
| (Common) Ingredient | INCI | Type | Benefits | Possible drawbacks / notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Water | Aqua / Water | Base | Neutral vehicle, condom compatible, lightweight sensation. | It evaporates; may require reapplication if no moisturisers/thickeners are present. |
| Glycerine | Glycerin | Osmotic lubricant | Boost glide and longevity with water-based formula. | It may increase osmolality (higher risk of irritation/dehydration in sensitive mucous membranes), especially if it ranks high in the INCI. |
| Propylene glycol | Propylene Glycol | Osmotic lubricant | Enhances glide and stability of the formula. | More prone to irritation in sensitive areas; contributes to high osmolality if it's top INCI. |
| Dipropylene glycol | Dipropylene Glycol | Osmotic lubricant | Helps with solubility and gives a slipperier feel. | It can increase osmolality; penalised if it appears high in INCI. |
| Butylene glycol | Butylene Glycol | Osmotic lubricant | Enhance glide and feel. | Contributes to osmolality; possible mild irritation in very sensitive individuals. |
| Pentylene glycol | Pentylene Glycol | Osmotic lubricant | Moisturiser; helps with preservation as a booster. | It may raise osmolality; not ideal high in INCI. |
| Sorbitol | Sorbitol | Osmotic lubricant | Increase lubrication and water retention. | Risk of high osmolality if combined with other osmotics. |
| Xylitol | Xylitol | Osmotic lubricant | Moisturiser; sometimes used for a gentle touch. | It may increase osmolality; not a guarantee of intimate tolerance. |
| Erythritol | Erythritol | Osmotic lubricant | Moisturising, silky sensation. | Contributes to osmolality (depends on the set of osmotics). |
| Sodium PCA | Sodium PCA | Osmotic lubricant | Effective moisturiser (natural moisturising factor). | It can increase osmolality if several osmotics are combined. |
| Maltose | Maltose | Osmotic lubricant | Moisturiser; adds body to the formula. | Osmotic sugar; may cause imbalances in predisposed individuals if there is irritation/microlesions. |
| Hydroxyethylcellulose | Hydroxyethylcellulose | Thickener | Increases viscosity, enhances the body and sensation of duration. | Generally neutral; too much can feel sticky. |
| Carbomer | Carbomer | Thickener | Stable gel, nice texture. | Neutral overall; depends on the final pH and neutralisers. |
| Xanthan gum | Xanthan Gum | Thickener | Enhance viscosity, natural feel. | Neutral; it can become sticky if it gets too high. |
| Guar gum | Guar Gum | Thickener | Smooth thickener, pleasant texture. | Generally neutral. |
| Cationic guar | Hydroxypropyl Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride | Thickener / conditioner | Enhances glide and feel (lasting sensation). | Generally neutral; can provide persistently slippery feel. |
| Cellulose | Cellulose | Thickener | Texture, stability. | Neutral. |
| Polyacrylamide | Polyacrylamide | Thickener | Silky texture, stability. | Controversy over potential traces; penalizable according to security policy. |
| Starch | Starch / Potato Starch | Thickener | Texture and absorption. | May encourage yeast growth under certain conditions; not ideal for sensitive intimate use. |
| Lactic acid | Lactic Acid | pH balancer | Intimate pH-balanced formula (especially vaginal). | Presence doesn't guarantee correct pH; it depends on the final pH and concentration. |
| Citric acid | Citric Acid | pH balancer | pH balance/stability indicator. | Does not guarantee intimate pH; it may only be a technical corrector. |
| Sodium hydroxide | Sodium Hydroxide | pH balancer | Neutralises/adjusts pH in traces. | If it's poorly formulated, it could cause irritation, but it usually comes in very small amounts. |
| Sodium citrate | Sodium Citrate | pH balancer | pH buffer, improves stability. | Impact depends on the whole set; no guarantee of optimal pH. |
| Sodium benzoate | Sodium Benzoate | Preservative | Effective conservation (relatively modern profile). | It might irritate sensitive areas; sometimes linked to more acidic formulas. |
| Potassium sorbate | Potassium Sorbate | Preservative | Paraben-free alternative. | It may cause irritation if pH and proportions are not optimal. |
| Phenoxyethanol | Phenoxyethanol | Preservative | Widely used; effective in low doses. | It may irritate sensitive mucosa; penalized if high in INCI. |
| EDTA | Tetrasodium EDTA | Chelating / preservative support | Enhances preservative efficacy, stability. | Eco controversy; slight irritant potential for those sensitive. |
| Levulinic acid | Levulinic Acid | Preservative | Softer alternative with a more modern twist. | It may mildly irritate sensitive areas. |
| Sodium levulinate | Sodium Levulinate | Preservative | Generally smooth/modern profile. | Low risk; depends on final pH. |
| Ethylhexylglycerin | Ethylhexylglycerin | Co-preservative | Enhances preservatives; can improve touch. | It might slightly increase osmolality and cause irritation in sensitive individuals. |
| Polysorbate 80 | Polysorbate 80 | Surfactant / emulsifier | Allows mixing phases, stability. | May increase permeability/irritation in sensitive mucosa; caution advised. |
| Parabens | Methylparaben / Propylparaben | Preservative | Effective and stable preservation. | Current preference for alternatives; penalty due to security policy. |
| Formaldehyde releasers | Imidazolidinyl Urea / DMDM Hydantoin | Preservative | Powerful preservation. | High irritation profile; strong penalty. |
| Chlorhexidine | Chlorhexidine | Preservative / bactericide | Antimicrobial action. | It can alter microbiome and cause irritation; very high penalty for regular intimate use. |
| Scent / Fragrance | Aroma / Parfum | Scent | Enhance your scent experience. | Common allergen/irritant for those sensitive; notable, especially high in INCI. |
| Sodium saccharin | Sodium Saccharin | Sweetener | Flavour in oral lubricants. | No additive needed for standard lubrication; might be punitive on sensitive intimate areas. |
| Aloe vera | Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice / Powder | Botanical active | Calming signal; enhances perception of softness. | The powder extract usually offers less; it doesn't balance out a very osmotic base. |
| Chamomile | Chamomilla Recutita Extract | Botanical active | Soothing sensation on sensitive skin. | It doesn't fix strong irritants if they're high up in the INCI. |
| Calendula | Calendula Officinalis Extract | Botanical active | Calming signal/barrier support. | Effect depends on actual concentration. |
| Hyaluronic Acid | Sodium Hyaluronate | Botanical active | High-value hydration (non-osmotic in scoring practice). | It doesn't replace lubrication if the base is too dry; it depends on the formulation. |
| Denatured alcohol | Alcohol Denat. | Another | Quick-drying sensation; solvent. | Desiccant and irritant for mucous membranes; high penalty. |
| Menthol | Menthol | Another | Cold/tingle sensation. | Frequent irritation/burning; penalizable. |
| Capsaicin | Capsaicin | Another | Intense warming effect. | High risk of mucosal irritation; severe penalty. |
| Silicones (base) | Dimethicone / Cyclopentasiloxane / Dimethiconol | Base | High duration, very good slip, doesn't dry out like water. | Variable compatibility with silicone toys (depending on product); more enveloping sensation. |
| Mineral oil | Paraffinum Liquidum | Base | Very long-lasting, it doesn't dry out. | Not compatible with latex condoms; heavy/occlusive sensation. |
