"We would strongly discourage the use of treatments to lighten the sensitive area around the vagina," Vanessa Mackay, MD, consultant gynecologist and spokesperson for the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, previously told Refinery29 UK. "This could damage the delicate skin of the vulva, and disturb the fragile balance of good bacteria inside the vagina. This natural flora helps to protect the vagina and disrupting it could lead to irritation, inflammation, and infections, such as bacterial vaginosis or thrush." In some cases, it can even result in scarring, burning, or an allergic reaction.