📕How to Use Xiaohongshu (RED) Abroad (2026): Loading Fix
Updated 2026-07 · RiftVPN team
The problem
Using Xiaohongshu abroad, the home feed won't load and keeps spinning, note images fail to load, videos buffer repeatedly, and search and live streams often won't open or show a network error.
Why it's blocked
Xiaohongshu's images, videos and recommendation servers mainly serve the mainland China network. An overseas direct connection has high latency and severe packet loss over cross-border routes, causing image and video APIs to time out frequently. A China-access VPN routes traffic through mainland China nodes so Xiaohongshu recognizes it as a domestic visit, restoring domestic-level loading speed and a complete browsing experience.
How to unlock Xiaohongshu (RED) in 3 steps
- 1
Create a free RiftVPN account (unlimited data): sign up with your email on the website or in the app.
- 2
Download the app: get RiftVPN from the App Store (iPhone/iPad) or Google Play (Android); desktop users can install the Chrome extension.
- 3
Open RiftVPN, tap to connect the "Smart route to China", then reopen Xiaohongshu (RED) and refresh — it works normally.
FAQ
Is RiftVPN free?
Yes. You can use it free after signing up, with unlimited data and regional media unlocking included. VIP (from $1.99/mo) adds faster dedicated-line speed, an ad-free experience and other enhancements.
Will video stutter after connecting?
RiftVPN uses smart split-tunneling: only traffic to domestic apps takes the back-to-China line while everything else connects directly, minimizing impact on your local speed. If you hit stutter during peak hours, you can upgrade to a VIP dedicated line.
Can I post notes and watch Xiaohongshu live streams normally abroad?
Yes. After connecting to a back-to-China line, posting notes, commenting, watching videos and live streams all work normally, and images and videos load noticeably faster.
RiftVPN — free to start, unlimited data
Unlock Tencent Video, iQIYI, NetEase Music and more. VIP from $1.99/mo.