Latex

Latex is a sap extracted from a rubber tree and is known for its elasticity, making it the most commonly used material for condoms on the market. When selecting a lubricant to use with latex condoms, it is important to avoid all oil-based products, such as oil-based lubricants, lotions, and petroleum jelly, as they can break down the chemical structure of latex and compromise its elasticity, increasing the risk of friction and tearing. Latex condoms can reach a thinness of 0.03mm, providing a balance between safety and pleasure, making them highly sought after by consumers.

Pros and Cons:

  • 😘 Most Not easy to break: good elasticity and high flexibility, strong wear resistance
  • 🥺 Natural rubber smell may cause disgust
  • 🥺Cannot be used with oil-based lubricants
  • 🥺May cause sensitivity

Popular Brands:JEXOKAMOTO

Latex sensitivity

According to the Hong Kong Allergy Association, approximately 6% of the world's population is allergic to latex. This allergy is caused by an acute reaction to the natural protein found in latex, and symptoms may include sneezing, shortness of breath, dizziness, and even fainting. Those who are allergic to latex condoms may experience itching, redness, tingling, and burning sensations in their private parts, usually appearing shortly after exposure to latex. As a result, alternatives to latex condoms have emerged on the market.


Polyurethane; PU

Polyurethane (PU) is currently the most common alternative material to latex, known for its thinness. The popular 0.01 and 0.02 condoms on the market are made of PU and are highly sought after by those who prioritize the ultimate experience and those with latex allergies. However, due to its lack of elasticity compared to latex, it is important to choose the right size and use a sufficient amount of lubrication to prevent breakage during use.

Pros and Cons:

  • 😘The ultimate experience: the thinnest and lightest
  • 😘High interoperability: can be used with any lubricant
  • 🥺Not as elastic as latex: be careful while choosing size

Popular Brands:OKAMOTO(岡本)SAGAMI(相模)


Polyisoprene; PI

Polyisoprene is a popular condom material in foreign countries. Although it is also derived from rubber trees like latex, its elasticity is comparable to that of latex. However, it is lighter and thinner, and does not contain the allergenic proteins found in latex. One of the most appealing qualities of polyisoprene is its ability to quickly transfer heat, making it feel more like skin-to-skin contact and improving the "no condom" feeling. It is also important to note that like latex, it cannot be used with oil-based lubricants. Currently, there are only two brands producing PI condoms, limiting the options available.

Popular Brands:

  • 😘Fast heat transfer
  • 😘All the advantages of latex: elasticity comparable to latex, not easy to break
  • 🥺Do not use with oil-based lubricants

Popular Brands:SKYN