Intimate Wellness Glossary — Terms Explained
Intimate wellness has its own vocabulary — and the industry doesn’t always make it easy to understand. This glossary explains key terms in plain language, from material science to product features to safety standards. Use it as a reference while reading our wellness guides or shopping the Maison Velvetia collection.
Materials & Safety
Body-Safe
A product made from non-porous, non-toxic materials that don’t harbour bacteria or leach harmful chemicals into the body. Body-safe is not a regulated term — quality retailers independently verify material claims.
Medical-Grade Silicone
The gold standard intimate wellness material. 100% platinum-cured silicone that is non-porous, hypoallergenic, sterilisable by boiling, and free from phthalates and plasticisers. Distinct from “silicone blend” products which may contain other materials.
Phthalates
Chemical plasticisers used to soften rigid plastics into flexible jelly-like textures. Linked to hormonal disruption and banned in many children’s products. Common in cheap intimate products labelled as “jelly” or “soft PVC”.
Non-Porous
A material surface that does not allow bacteria, fluids, or microorganisms to penetrate. Non-porous materials (silicone, glass, stainless steel) can be fully sanitised — porous materials (TPE, jelly, PVC) cannot.
TPE / TPR
Thermoplastic elastomer / thermoplastic rubber. Soft, flexible plastics used in budget intimate products. Porous (cannot be fully sanitised) and quality varies enormously. Some premium brands use certified phthalate-free TPE, but most unregulated TPE is not body-safe for repeated use.
Borosilicate Glass
Heat-resistant glass used in laboratory equipment and high-end intimate products. Non-porous, fully sterilisable, temperature-responsive, and compatible with all lubricant types. The same glass type used in Pyrex cookware.
Surgical-Grade Stainless Steel (316L)
Medical-grade stainless steel used in surgical implants and high-end intimate products. Non-porous, hypoallergenic, sterilisable by boiling, and compatible with every lubricant type including silicone-based.
Lubricants
Water-Based Lubricant
The most versatile lubricant category — compatible with all condoms, all intimate wellness devices, easy to clean, and suitable for sensitive skin. Shorter-lasting than silicone-based; reapplication may be needed.
Silicone-Based Lubricant
Long-lasting lubricant that doesn’t dry out and works in water. Not compatible with silicone devices (degrades the material). Ideal for use with glass, stainless steel, ABS plastic, or for partnered activity without silicone toys.
Oil-Based Lubricant
Natural oils (coconut, almond) or commercial oil blends. Long-lasting and moisturising, but incompatible with latex condoms (causes condom failure). Use only when latex isn’t involved.
pH-Balanced
A lubricant formulated to match the natural pH of healthy vaginal tissue (3.8–4.5). Helps prevent infections and irritation. Look for pH-balanced labelling on products marketed for sensitive users.
Hybrid Lubricant
A blend of water-based and silicone-based formulas. Lasts longer than pure water-based while remaining easier to clean than pure silicone. Compatible with silicone toys only if the silicone percentage is very low — check the manufacturer’s toy compatibility claim.
Device Features
IPX7
An international waterproofing standard. An IPX7-rated device can be fully submerged in up to 1 metre of water for 30 minutes without damage. Makes cleaning significantly easier and allows in-shower use.
Flared Base
A wider anchor point at the end of anal-play devices that prevents them from being pulled inside the body. Non-negotiable safety feature for any product designed for anal insertion.
Clitoral Stimulator
An external-use device designed specifically for external stimulation. Uses vibration, pulsation, or air-pressure waves. Beginner-friendly because it doesn’t require insertion.
Bullet Vibrator
A compact cylindrical vibrator, typically 6–10cm in length. Discreet in size and often surprisingly powerful. Popular as a first-time purchase for its affordability and versatility.
Wand Massager
A larger, more powerful device marketed as a “personal massager” for muscle relief. Delivers broader, less targeted stimulation — popular for users who find smaller clitoral stimulators too localised.
Rabbit Vibrator
A dual-action device with an internal shaft and external clitoral arm (named for an early version shaped like rabbit ears). Delivers combined internal and external stimulation simultaneously.
Shopping & Privacy
Discreet Packaging
Plain unmarked shipping packaging with no indication of the contents, sender brand, or product category visible externally. Maison Velvetia ships every order in plain unbranded boxes.
Neutral Billing
Charges on your credit or debit card statement that don’t reveal the product category. Maison Velvetia bills under a neutral descriptor so shared account holders can’t identify purchases.
PDPA 2010
Personal Data Protection Act 2010 — Malaysia’s data privacy law governing how businesses collect, store, and use customer personal data. Maison Velvetia’s privacy practices comply with PDPA 2010 and its 2024 amendments.
Have a specific question about an intimate wellness product or practice? Our Frequently Asked Questions covers common topics like shipping discretion, body-safe standards, and beginner concerns.
Continue Learning
For more in-depth guides: read our beginner’s guide to intimate wellness in Malaysia, our complete body-safe materials breakdown, or browse the full Maison Velvetia Journal.