Author: Holly Horton
The votes are in. Intimate gels can be a game changer in your bedroom. In fact, a 2013 study of 2,451 women aged between 18-68 found that 9 out of 10 women felt sex was more comfortable, pleasurable and better with lube or intimate gel.
Whether you are going at it solo or with a partner, gels increase pleasure, comfort, and even sexual safety. Forget all the archaic myths and stigma around the usage of intimate gel. It’s not just for when you are not able to get “wet enough”. Making intimate gel a part of your sex life helps you feel more erotic sensations than ever before.
Hands down (pun intended), when used during masturbation or intimate massages, its lubricating effect can increase your levels of stimulation and make sex feel more natural.
Compare this experience to using a dry hand or sex toy, and you will see what we mean. Regardless of your gender, age, and sexuality, intimate gels can elevate your pleasure.
Now that its many merits have been established, let’s try and understand the three main types of lube/gel available in the market:
- Water-based: This is considered one of the best types since it can be used safely with most different sorts of sex toys, and condoms (always check though!), and doesn’t usually irritate sensitive skin. What’s more, it’s super easy to clean off with water, and arousal (or warming) and flavored lubes tend to be water-based.
If we are being nit-picky, the only downside is that it dries up quickly compared to silicone-based lubes, which means you might need to reapply it. - Silicone-based: Thanks to its silky texture, this type is longer-lasting than water-based. That’s why it is often touted as the best lube for anal sex, even though it is more difficult to clean off. It is compatible with non-silicone toys and condoms, but always check before trying.
- Oil-based (and similar products such as coconut oil): Best used for sensual massages as the consistency makes them easier to spread. Avoid using it with latex or polyisoprene condoms as the oil tends to increase the chances of the contraceptive tearing. Another thing to be mindful of is yeast infections. A study of 141 sexually active women between the ages of 18 and 65, found that those who reported using oils inside the vagina had a 32% increased risk for yeast infection.
Ready to unlock the next level of pleasure? Choose an intimate gel that is right for you (and your partner). There is something out there for every preference, in terms of taste, scent, and sensations.
Find out how SKYN®’s new intimate gel brings you the best of both worlds
Intimate gel makes sex better.
It doesn’t matter how old you are, or what your sexual orientation is, there are very few situations in the bedroom that intimate gel can’t improve. Isn’t sex more comfortable, pleasurable and better when using gels or lubes?
When it comes to intimate gel, it used to be the case that you had 2 options: water-based or silicone-based. Both can be great, and both have their specific strengths and weaknesses. Water-based lubes and gels are compatible with most condoms and toys and are easy to clean up, but don’t last as long as their silicone-based counterparts. Silicone-based, on the other hand, are long-lasting, but can be a bit messier.
If only there was a way to get the best of both worlds.
A New Type of Intimate Gel
At SKYN®, we’ve spent years trying to strike a balance between using ingredients of natural origin and providing long-lasting pleasure. And with our Naturally Endless we are delighted to have a unique intimate gel that is long-lasting and gentle on your skin, easy to clean, made with 99% ingredients of natural origin and compatible with all of our condoms and toys.
And you don’t need to take our word for it. In 2021, when we were testing our new gel*, we asked 36 couples to blind test a variety of lubes available on the market alongside SKYN® Naturally Endless. 87% of them said they would buy it over the other solutions they tested. The combination of the best characteristics of water-based and silicone-based gel, without the compromises of either, is something everybody can enjoy.
So, if for whatever reason you’ve put off using intimate gel, or if you’re ready to try something new, give SKYN® Naturally Endless a go. There’s nothing quite like it out there and we think you’ll love it!
*According to a study commissioned by SKYN® and carried out in France in 2021 with 36 couples who blind tested multiple lubricants
FAQs
- What’s so special about Naturally Endless?
It used to be the case that you had just two options for lubes/gels: water-based or silicone-based.
Water-based lubes/gels are more natural, compatible with most condoms and toys and are easy to clean up. On the other hand, they don’t last as long as silicone-based lubricants, which in turn can be messy and difficult to clean up.
Naturally Endless combines the best of both worlds as it is long-lasting and gentle on your skin, easy to clean, made with 99% ingredients of natural origin and compatible with all of our condoms and toys.
- What condoms is Naturally Endless compatible with?
It can be used with all SKYN® condoms.
It is also compatible with both Natural Rubber Latex and Synthetic Polyisoprene condoms, but not polyurethane condoms.
- What toys is Naturally Endless compatible with?
It can be used with all SKYN® toys.
- Has a fragrance been added?
No. There is no fragrance in Naturally Endless.
- Does it stain?
No. It’s easy to wash and does not leave stains.
- What’s Naturally Endless made of?
It’s made with 99% ingredients of natural origin. Including Aqua, Propanediol, Hydroxyethyl cellulose, Sodium lactate, Benzoic acid, Okra extract, Flaxseed gum, Propylene glycol, Phenoxyethanol, and Chlorphenesin.
Here at SKYN®, we believe that actions speak louder than words. That’s why in 2023, we’re donating $2 from every purchase on our website to an organisation that supports safe, empowered and inclusive environments for the LGBTQIA+ community.
SKYN® has always been a supporter of Pride and this year we want to make sure we are championing equality, inclusivity and change every day.
We are committing this money to organisations who raise awareness, provide opportunities and offer support to LGBTQIA+ people all across Australia.
We could not be prouder to stand alongside the LGBTQIA+ community every day of the year.
We’re over the rainbow. Supporting pride all year long.
We bundle, for your pleasure. Check out the SKYN® range below:
Christmas is a time for giving, and what better to give than the gift of pleasure?
Whether you’re bestowing this gift on yourself, a friend or a lover, our collection of SKYN™ toys has got you covered.
Read our round-up below to find the best fit…
This dual-tipped personal massager was made for simultaneous internal and external stimulation. Its curved shape and rounded end will be sure to hit all the right spots.
Made for someone with a penis, this soft silicone masturbatory egg is super stretchy and ribbed for maximum pleasure.
Caress’s vibrating open ends mimic the feeling of oral stimulation so you can enjoy oral sex even when you’re on your own.
Use the Dual Ring as a finger massager during foreplay and as a vibrating ring during intercourse or masturbation.
With 7 different vibration modes, this soft silicone vibrating bullet with deep textured ridges packs a mighty punch.
Talking of bullets, meet the Thrill. This three-speed vibrator proves you don’t need to be complicated to get the job done (very well).
And lastly, the Vibe Ring has a textured crown and is made of a soft silicone to maximise comfort. This vibrating ring will help you explore the endless bounds of pleasure.
There’s something for everyone on your naughty list at SKYN®.
Are you ready to experience a new world of intimacy with SKYN™ Arouse for Him & Her? Well, we are here to help. Everything you need to know about our new libido supplements is below…
What are some of the key ingredients in the Arouse supplements?
Tribulus Terrestris, traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to promote healthy libido and Horny Goat Weed, traditionally used in Chinese medicine to support healthy sexual function
Other than sexual function, what are the other Arouse ingredients known for?
- Siberian Ginseng, traditionally used in Western herbal medicine to relieve fatigue
- Ashwagandha, traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to help body adapt to stress
- Ginkgo, traditionally used in Asian medicine to support healthy blood circulation
- Panax Ginseng, traditionally used in Asian medicine to support physical stamina
How often should I take my Arouse supplements?
2x SKYN™ Arouse supplements should be taken daily.
Can I take my Arouse supplements alongside other medication, like Viagra?
Our recommendation is to speak with a health care professional before taking Arouse in conjunction with Viagra or any other medication.
When should I start to notice its effects?
As with all supplements, the SKYN™ Arouse efficacy may vary from person to person. For some it may take 1 week, 1 month or longer.
Are the Arouse supplements vegan friendly?
The Arouse supplements do not contain any animal derivatives.
What do the Arouse supplements taste/smell like?
The Arouse tablets have a neutral taste and smell.
How long will my bottle of Arouse last me?
Each Arouse tub has 60 tablets, enough for roughly 1 month’s supply.
Is Arouse safe to take alongside my other vitamins and supplements?
Please speak to a healthcare professional to get the best advice for you.
Will my Arouse supplements expire?
Arouse supplements have a shelf life of 2 years.
Is Arouse for Her safe for pregnant people?
Arouse supplements are not to be used during pregnancy or lactation. If you are pregnant or considering becoming pregnant, do not take without consulting a health professional.
Do the Arouse supplements contain any allergens?
The Arouse supplements are free from the 8 major food allergens: milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat & soybeans. However, you should always talk to a doctor, pharmacist, or health practitioner if you have any concerns about the contents of the product.
Why can’t I take Arouse if I have a heart condition?
Some ingredients in the Arouse supplements (i.e., Tribulus and Epimedium) will interact with certain medications for heart and blood pressure. Please talk to your doctor before taking the Arouse supplements if you have a heart condition.
Where are the Arouse supplements made?
The Arouse supplements are made right here in Australia.
Where do you source your ingredients from?
The ingredients used in Arouse are sourced both locally and internationally. All these ingredients are tested locally in Australia as per the TGA guidelines before manufacturing.
Are the Arouse supplement bottles recyclable?
Absolutely! The Arouse bottles and lids are both recyclable.
Have any unanswered questions? Don’t hesitate to get in touch!
Introducing sex toys into an established, sexual partnership can definitely serve to turn up the heat. But the idea of bringing a toy to the table is still taboo for many people. They can create sensations that mechanics alone cannot. Toys can increase our pleasure; they are acting as welcome additions to something already going well.
Some people might think that their partner asking to introduce toys into their sex life as a negative reflection on themselves. But in almost all cases that couldn’t be further from the truth. There’s lots of evidence out there that tells us many people with vagina’s struggle to climax purely from penetrative sex alone. Often climax can only be reached with additional stimulation of the clitoris or anus. Toys can be an addition that leads to a mind-blowing climax. Consider your vibrating toy as your new best friend, a partner-in-crime for bringing more pleasure into the bedroom. Fundamentally, a toy should be thought of as an extension of yourself.
Communication is key.
If you or your partner are feeling apprehensive, conversation and open communication is key. If you’re nervous to broach the conversation with a long-term partner, make sure to add in lots of reassurance – we all need to hear some praise once in a while.
Be on the same page.
Now that you’ve had the conversation with your partner, and you’re both feeling comfortable, an exciting next step is to go toy shopping together. There are an abundance of options out there at both online and brick-and-mortar adult shops where you are your partner are guaranteed to find something that turns you both on.
Always grinding. Expected to multi-task. Heading toward exhaustion. Are we really surprised that our sex lives end up on the back burner? Once the honeymoon bubble as been popped, finding time for your sex life and maintaining levels of affection can slowly fall down the priority list.
So we’ve put together some ways you can keep your sex life at the top of your priorities.
Take a sense-check
It’s important to remember to remain open-minded and respectful when opening up this discussion with your partner. The aim is to foster openness and honesty not aggression and negative energy. To start with, focus on what has been working for your sex life ahead of delving into the reasons why it might be slipping down your priority list.
You may find that something comes up you or your partner having been waiting to address.
Have realistic expectations
A good jumping off point might involve starting slowly, try to connect emotionally with your partner, focusing on affection before trying to increase frequency. Make an effort to spend more intimate moments together, whether that is doing daily activities together or increasing physical touch day-to-day.
Schedule it
Keeping a timetable perhaps doesn’t sound the sexiest approach to prioritising your sex life, but if your issue really is time, it may be the most practical way forward. Anticipation can be half the fun, focus on building the suspense before your scheduled sex date with fun things like sexting, nudes and planning what you’re going to do to eachother.
In the real world, people’s sex drives vary wildy, especially throughout a long-term relationship. The important thing is to not put too much pressure on yourself or your partner to ramp things up too quickly. Maintaining a great schedule may be the key that opens up your partnership and bumps sex to the top of your priority list.
The fact that we’re still using the word ‘should’ around our own sexual pleasure is the first clue that there’s no one right answer to the question. A lot of people might believe that longer is better, or that other people think it is, and till-the-sun-comes-up long sex sessions are a pretty universal barometer of how hot and heavy last night was. And yet.
If everybody is doing it all night, how come Netflix is so successful? All joking aside, in real life, whether you are in the mood for penetrative sex that lasts for hours or oral sex that curls your toes but lasts 5 minutes, pleasure is pleasure. And hello, what about quickies? A quickie is one of the most erotic sex plays around, and can also act as an intimate stop-gap when you’ve got a week that allows little together time. Here are some tips to getting it right for you and the expectations that might be getting in the way.
Expectation: We’re gonna do it all night.
Reality: You might. And that is perfectly fabulous. However, an all-nighter is probably not 7 or 8 uninterrupted hours of sex. It’s more a big sexual soup of foreplay, interplay and after play. You might hold each other, talk until the sun comes up and then do it all over again. Or you might have long sex. Or content yourselves with mutual oral sex. As long as you and your partner’s needs are being satisfied and what you are doing feels right, there’s no one right way to do this. Stock up on lubes, condoms and – why not – toys, and enjoy!
Expectation: I’m going to want to do it all night. Every time.
Reality: Few people want to get it on the same way every time. Keep an open mind. And be prepared to mix it up. Pleasure is about moments and touch and all the sensations themselves, not a fixed amount of time you have to stroke in order to tick all the “That was hot!” boxes.
Expectation: The perfect amount of time is…
Maybe you like to do the do for hours. Or used to. Or don’t at all. There are so many different ways to explore each other that getting hung up on some pre-planned ‘perfect’ amount of time could totally get in the way of what you and your partner(s) actually enjoy. A hilarious but telling Twitter poll asked 819 participants, “Ever get bored during penetrative sex or want it to just be over already?” A whopping 82% of them answered yes thereby proving that stamina isn’t everything. And that asking your partner, “Does this feel good?” should be part of an ongoing convo, even in the thick of things.
If crackles, scratches, pops, snaps, taps, whispers and other auditory (or visual) stimuli make you feel tingly or relaxed, or have any other euphoric reaction, you are sensitive to ASMR, or autonomous sensory meridian response, experiences. Extra-personal attention from others can also elicit what is often described as a tingling sensation that travels from the scalp down the spine or to the limbs and brings about a feeling of wellness. Also, more recently, and perhaps accurately, known as AIHO (attention-induced head orgasm) or AIE (attention-induced euphoria), when it comes to ASMR, if you know, then you know.
This global phenomenon is fundamentally non-sexual. Videos and podcasts made to trigger an ASMR abound online and have garnered tens of millions of views and listens. For some, this involuntary body and brain reaction can decrease anxiety and help with sleeping issues. However, for others, the arousal is real. It stands to reason that the 2.0 would evolve to include erotic ASMR.
It’s simple, really. If certain sounds, sensations and visual cues get you tingling or experiencing what some refer a ‘braingasm’, using those triggers as a turn on in a sensual or sexual encounter makes sense. If you derive pleasure from it, whether the sound of water running, whispering, ironing (yes, really), crunchy or slurpy eating sounds, someone brushing your hair slowly and methodically, or watching someone else’s hair getting brushed, whatever does it for you, incorporate this audio or visual sex into your box of carnal bliss tricks, whether with a partner – who may have their own sexual ASMR prompts – or when masturbating or partaking in online sex. It is another way to heighten the intensity of your orgasms and enjoy a healthy, well-rounded intimate life.
Certain things are generally perceived as improving as we get older. Issues like managing finances and mastering our work, for example. More experience, more skills, more enjoyment. The supposed exception? Our sex lives. In that same way that people in their 30s are seen as ancient when we are little, pop culture practically screams that sex is for the young and the older you get, the less sex you’ll be having. This info is mis-info.
The facts: Older folks are having mature sex, even senior sex, and the majority of men and women over 60 in the US are sexually active, most averaging at least two to three times monthly (more often than many younger adults).
How much, how good?
One reason for the fact gap: quality vs quantity. One large, long-term study conducted over an 18-year period found that younger people were satisfied when they were having a lot of intercourse and other sexual adventures. The same study discovered that, as people get older and acquire more sexual wisdom, they value good sex over a lot of sex. So when asked. “How is your sex life?”, their decline in satisfaction is taken as a decline in frequency of sex in later life.
The study underlines the benefits of maturing, including more knowledge in all areas of life, sexuality included, as older people report understanding their own sexual preferences more, what their partners are (and aren’t) into, and how this spills over into intimacy. Older people in romantic relationships report engaging in sexual exploration and a focus on their partner’s pleasure.
Comfortable in their skin
This sexual wisdom is often paired with another advantage of getting older: not caring so much what others think about us. The erotic freedom that comes with body acceptance and letting go of hang-ups can lead to deeper, more satisfying intercourse and other sexual practices. Which is great news, as sex after age 60, or 70, or beyond, is a great predictor of a longer, healthier life. As well as a more enjoyable one. The clichés should be put out to pasture. Not speaking truthfully about the joys of mature sex does everyone a disservice.