The Red-Light Therapy Device for Your Vagina
Red light gets a lot of attention for its rejuvenating effects on the skin, and rightfully so: Both scientific research and anecdotal reports show impressive results.
But red light’s renewing effects on the vagina are worth talking about, too. Red light devices can be a nonhormonal, noninvasive approach to promoting pelvic floor muscle tone, sexual function, and intimate well-being.
Not every device is made equal, though—the specific wavelength of the red light and other features can affect how well it works. And how it actually feels when you use it matters almost as much: Red-light devices are not overnight miracles, and anyone who breathlessly tells you otherwise is not to be trusted. Consistent use over time is key, so the more you like using it, the more likely you are to keep doing so.
The Joylux vFit is the only vaginal red-light device that checks all our boxes. Here are five key features that make it worth the splurge.
- Six red lights at the right wavelength. The vFit has a combination of six red lights emitting at a wavelength of 662 nanometers—the wavelength that research shows is most effective for red light. They’re placed strategically on the vFit to stimulate the opening of the vagina and its many nerve endings.
- Gentle heat for immediate effects. Red light’s effects are long-term: It takes six to eight weeks with consistent exposure to see results. But you’ll notice an increase in blood flow from the warming function right away. As a bonus, research shows that gentle heat exposure enhances collagen and elastin production.
- Vibration for added pleasure. Adding vibration to your vFit session makes it more enjoyable, and thus more likely that you’ll reach for it regularly. It may add to the effectiveness of the device, too: Research shows that vibration from sex toys can improve pelvic floor strength. But Joylux founder and CEO Colette Courtion says not to purchase the vFit if you’re looking for just a toy. “There are really fabulous sex toys that will give you much bigger, better orgasms,” she says. (And they’re less expensive.)
- Its curved shape. Straight, wandlike red-light devices just aren’t as comfortable to insert into the vagina as those that curve with our bodies. A slight curve, covered with a medical-grade silicone, provides a smooth insertion. “vFit was specifically designed to be contoured to the body while in a lying position so that it’s easy to use,” Courtion says.
- The app. The vFit couples with the Joylux app, which has reminders and a calendar to keep you on the right program. It also allows you to control the device more easily, keep track of your progress, and learn more about vaginal health during perimenopause and menopause.
How Each vFit Session Works
The vFit is easy to incorporate into your wellness routine—it takes just 6 to 10 minutes, three times a week, for six to eight weeks. That’s when your body will see clinical results like improved intimate wellness, more natural lubrication, and increased sensation, Courtion says. For maintenance, she recommends doing it one or two times a week. The process is simple.
- Lubricate the vFit with clear water-based gel and turn it on.
- Select the duration of your session: 6, 8, or 10 minutes.
- Turn on the red lights by holding the light mode button—the vibration will turn on automatically. You can choose any combination of its three vibrational patterns (constant, slow wave, and fast wave) and its two intensity levels (low and high).
- Insert the vFit into the vagina until the red-light window is completely inside. The end of the window should be close to the opening of the vagina.
- Relax and enjoy your session. If you’re sensitive to the heat at first—it can feel more intense for some than others—start with shorter sessions (six to eight minutes) for the first week. As you adjust, you can increase the session to up to 10 minutes. The device automatically shuts off after your session is complete.
- Clean the device with soap, warm water, and a nonabrasive cloth, then allow it to air-dry (while protecting it from dust and dirt) to prepare it for your next session.
This article is for informational purposes only, even if and regardless of whether it features the advice of physicians and medical practitioners. This article is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice. The views expressed in this article are the views of the expert and do not necessarily represent the views of goop.