You may be familiar with options like vaginal lubricants and moisturizers when it comes to hormone-free solutions for managing vaginal menopause symptoms like dryness, irritation or pain with sex.
But what about red-light technology?
This type of at-home treatment has been trending for a few years now as an innovative way to address cosmetic concerns like wrinkles or acne. But a growing body of research suggests that it can also improve the health of your vaginal tissue –and help address some of the issues many women experience, like dryness and discomfort.
What is Red-Light Therapy ?
Red-light therapy is a treatment that uses low levels of red light to penetrate the skin at shallow depths. It's often used to address cosmetic issues like wrinkles, acne, scarring, and redness.1
While the technology is still relatively new, red-light wavelengths are thought to give cells an energy boost, which may stimulate the production of collagen and the growth of fresh, new cells. "Broadly, this technology has been shown to support tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and boost circulation," says OBGYN and Joylux medical advisory board member, Sarah de la Torre, M.D.
What's more, emerging evidence suggests that it can deliver noticeable improvements to skin's appearance. Studies have shown that, when used regularly over a period of several weeks, red-light therapy may be helpful for easing fine lines and dark spots, improving skin's texture, combatting discoloration, and tightening loose skin.2
Red Light and Vaginal Health
The face isn't the only part of the body that can benefit from red-light technology. This type of light can have similar effects on vaginal tissue, which can become drier, thinner, and more sensitive during perimenopause and menopause due to hormonal changes.
In fact, research has shown that using red-light technology on vaginal tissue can stimulate healing, reduce inflammation, support healthy cell function, enhance collagen production, and improve blood flow.3 "The result is healthier, more resilient vaginal tissue - which is especially valuable for women experiencing dryness, discomfort, or laxity due to hormonal changes," Dr. de la Torre explains.
Managing Vaginal Symptoms with Red-Light
By enhancing the health of your vaginal tissue, red-light could potentially be another tool that can help ease vaginal issues related to the hormonal changes associated with perimenopause and menopause.
According to Dr. de la Torre, with consistent use you may notice positive improvements with issues such as:
- Lack of natural lubrication
- Loss of sensation
- Discomfort with intercourse
Red-light therapy is generally considered safe; the safety and efficacy of the technology has been published in over 3,000 studies. That said, it may not be right for everyone. Always be sure to check with your healthcare provider before trying red-light technology for vaginal symptoms to ensure it’s right for you.
The Joylux vFit
There's no shortage of masks, lamps, and wands that can be used to deliver red-light at home. But those sorts of devices won't work for intimate areas like the vagina.
That's where the Joylux vFit comes in – and we’re a fan of this product based on the fact that it’s backed by sound research. The world's first and only intimate wellness device featuring red-light technology, the vFit uses gentle heat and sonic vibration to promote vaginal health in the comfort of your own home - without the use of hormones. "I like to describe it as an easy-to-use, spa-like device designed specifically for women who want to take control of their intimate wellness naturally," Dr. de la Torre says.
The hand-held device comes with customizable settings allowing you to control the timing and settings, so you can find what's most comfortable for you. Sync it with the Joylux app to take advantage of alerts and reminders. You can also use the app to track your symptoms, giving you real-time feedback on improvements.
Not all red-light devices are backed by science. But the vFit, which was designed by OBGYNs and experts in red-light technology, is supported by clinical studies. "Used consistently, it supports healthier, more hydrated tissue, helping women feel more comfortable, confident, and connected to their partners," says Dr. de la Torre.
Within weeks of regular use:4,5
- 95% of women reported improved intimate wellness
- 91% experienced better natural lubrication
- 92% felt more confident
- 82% noticed improved strength and tone
Women who use the vFit regularly also reported significant improvements in natural hydration, tightness, and sensation after just 6 to 8 weeks. The result: Enhanced sexual satisfaction and quality of life and improved relationships.
Other Ways to Manage Vaginal Symptoms During Menopause
Red-light therapy and associated red-light technologies are one tool for supporting your vaginal health and sexual wellness during menopause. But it's not the only one. Some other helpful options to consider:
- Vaginal lubricants. Water-, silicone, or oil-based lubricants can be applied on an as-needed basis just before or during sex to reduce friction and make sex more comfortable.6
- Vaginal moisturizers. Over-the-counter moisturizing creams or inserts deliver hydration to vaginal tissue over time. They work best when used daily, just like a face or body moisturizer.7 Look for products containing hyaluronic acid, like Bonafide’s Revaree® Plus, a molecule which can retain up to 1000x its weight in moisture.
- Localized hormone-based therapies. Estrogen creams, tablets, or rings deliver a low dose of estrogen directly to your vaginal tissues to reduce dryness and pain.8
Lack of lubrication and discomfort are not uncommon symptoms during perimenopause and menopause. But there are ways to feel better, including using an at-home red light technology device like the Joylux vFit or over the counter solutions like vaginal moisturizers or lubricants.
As always, if you ever have questions or concerns about your vaginal health or symptoms you may be experiencing, be sure to speak with your healthcare provider.
Resources
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22114-red-light-therapy
- https://www.aad.org/public/cosmetic/safety/red-light-therapy
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6648197/#s010
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5514206/
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2352647516300107
- https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/women-health/vaginal-moisturizers-and-lubricants-whats-the-difference-which-do-i-buy/
- https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/women-health/vaginal-moisturizers-and-lubricants-whats-the-difference-which-do-i-buy/
- https://www.acog.org/womens-health/experts-and-stories/the-latest/experiencing-vaginal-dryness-heres-what-you-need-to-know
Comments
Post commentInteresting article. Will be checking out Vfit and trying to figure out if its something I might benefit from. Thank you for this article. I’m not a fan of creams and lubricants and most have ingredients I’m allergic to, so this article was helpful in a newer way of thinking for help.