Are you not happy with the colour or appearance of your vulva? Did you know you could quickly lighten it through a quick and pain-free procedure? Vulva lightening using laser is sought after by many women. If you want to know more about this procedure, its needs, and its advantages, read on.
Also known as vaginal whitening or vaginal bleaching, vulva lightening is a cosmetic procedure. This procedure, as the name indicates, aims to lighten the skin of the vulva and the area around it.
The procedure is simple and can be done using topical creams, chemical peels or lasers. While many people try to do it at home using various bleaches, it can be very risky. Bleaches use many strong chemicals, which may not be safe for a sensitive area like the vagina.
The pigmentation of the vulva is due to the melanin in the skin. Some of the common reasons for the vulva to be darker than the surrounding areas are:
● Genetics
● They tend to get darker when aroused.
● Vulvas can also change colour during pregnancy, childbirth, puberty or even menopause.
● Hormonal changes can change the colour of the vulva to a certain extent.
● Repeated friction and irritation, like wearing tight jeans or sitting on rough or hard surfaces.
● Using certain lubricants
● Old age or infections
● Use of creams or other products around the vagina
The vulva is naturally darker than its surrounding areas. Artificially lightening it using various methods can be very dangerous. The vulva skin is very soft and sensitive compared to the areas surrounding it. Bleaches and topical creams can contain harsh chemicals or ingredients that can harm the delicate skin. Laser technology, on the other hand, is a low-risk procedure that is both quick and pain-free.
When compared to other methods of lightening the vulva, laser offers the following advantages:
● It is quick and effective
● Pain-free and non-invasive
● No cuts or sutures
● Results are permanent
● Results visible after the first session itself
● Uses sophisticated laser technology
There is not enough documentation about this procedure and its side effects. Some of the commonly known and possible side effects of vulva lightening are:
When Using Laser –
● Scarring
● Burns or sensitivity
● Persistent pain during intercourse
When Using Other Methods –
● Skin rashes
● Ulcers on the skin
● Thinning of the skin
● Acne induced by steroids
● Scarring
● Dryness or burning sensation
Your cosmetic surgeon performing the procedure will first administer local anaesthesia. Once the anaesthesia takes effect, they will carefully remove the accumulated melanin, which is responsible for the darkening or pigmentation of the vulva.
You may require two or more sessions depending on the extent of pigmentation. You may also experience a slight discomfort, dryness or itching soon after the procedure. Your surgeon will advise you to refrain from sexual activity for the next 2 to 4 days. Complete recovery from the procedure may take up to a week.
Once the anaesthesia wears off, you may experience mild pain or sensitivity in the area. Your gynaecologist might prescribe some painkillers. Using a laser for lightening is safer than creams and peels as it will not irritate the skin or get trapped under skin folds.
The cost of the procedure will depend on the exact technology used, the number of sessions required, and the extent of pigmentation. If the pigmentation is too deep, you may require more time per session and more sessions.
When you decide to undergo vaginal bleaching or lightening, here are some precautions to take:
● Consult your OB-GYN to get a professional opinion
● Do not attempt to do it yourself at home using one of the many DIY packs
● Do not use unregulated products sold online or through social media pages – they may not be approved for safety
● Avoid products containing steroids, mercury or hydroquinone. They can cause unwanted reactions.
● If you experience any intense reactions, seek medical attention immediately.
● Opt for a well-reputed place with certified professionals to do the treatment.
Each person’s experience can be very different. Different skins react differently to various products and treatments. While it may not cause many reactions or pain, some women may experience sensitivity or pain for a few days. It will take about a week to fully recover from a vulva lightening laser treatment. During this time, wearing tight clothes or using harsh soaps may irritate the skin more than usual.
Whether you opt for a vulva lightening procedure or not, you can follow some tips to reduce the darkening of the vulva to a certain extent. Here are some tips to help maintain your vulva’s colour:
● Avoid using harsh soaps on the vulva region
● Try changing your detergent and use a milder detergent on your underwear
● Wear loose-fitting clothes
● Avoid wearing very tight pants or clothes that can increase friction in the area.
● In case an infection is causing the darkening, treat the infection first
● Keep the skin moisturised using natural ingredients like oil or aloe vera gel. Wash it off if it irritates the skin.
Vulvas come in various sizes and colours. Many factors influence the colour of the vulva. Cosmetic procedures can help lighten the vulva, provided you get it done by a reputed professional and follow all instructions. The vulva is a sensitive region, so you need extra care when you undergo such treatments.
Vulva lightening is a cosmetic procedure that aims to lighten the skin on the vulva to make it look brighter. It can be done using topical creams, chemical peels or laser.
Yes, the vulva can be lightened to a certain extent using chemical peels, topical creams, or lasers. However, how light it can get or how long it lasts varies from woman to woman and depends on multiple factors.
The erbium laser is one of the most effective and safest lasers for lightening an area as sensitive as the vulva. However, doctors' laser use can vary from clinic to clinic.
