Male latex condom was introduced 150 years ago. There have been modifications to it, including addition of spermicidal lubricants; changes to its shape, size, thickness and texture, yet the underlying material has remained the same. Male latex condoms are widely used to prevent not only pregnancy, but also to protect against sexually transmitted diseases.
Despite latex condoms’ popularity, there are some consumers who finds its use unacceptable. In addition to complaints about comfort, sensation, and smell latex allergy affect an estimated 1% to 6% of the U.S. population. Latex allergic reaction is cumulative and risk increases over time after prolonged exposure. For this reason, latex sensitivity among health care personnel is estimated to be between 10% to 17% due to their increased exposure.
Natural latex is derived from trees. And condoms made from natural latex are often contaminated with other proteins from the tree. With most people, it is these proteins that cause allergic reaction, not the latex itself. Manufacturers have been developing synthetic alternative to latex condoms for several years now and there are currently three alternatives.
Polyisoprene
Polyisoprene is a synthetic form of latex created in lab. Since it is created in lab, it doesn’t contain any of the contaminants that can cause an allergic reaction. It has all the same characteristics of natural latex condoms. Polyisoprene condoms are very soft, natural in color, flexible and comfortable to wear.
Polyurethane
Polyurethane condoms are thinner than latex or polyisoprene condoms. It is able to transmit body heat better, is odorless, clear and compatible with oil or water based lubricants. But compared to polyisoprene condoms, it doesn’t stretch as well and does not conform well to body.
Lambskin
This is the original and oldest condom material. It is made from lamb intestines and compatible with water based lubricants.
But it’s major disadvantage is that, the pores in the natural material are big enough to let STD viruses and bacteria through. It should only be used to prevent pregnancy.
Lifestyles skyn non-latex
Lifestyles SKYN Condoms deliver ultimate sensitivity in a breakthrough polyisoprenenon-latex material. They are the first clinically tested and approved polyisoprene condom in the U.S. market today. Theyre the next best thing to wearing nothing.
New SKYN™ condoms provide a softer, more natural feel and have been clinically proven to enhance sensation.
Combines the strength of premium latex with the sensitivity of an ultra thin condom for the skyn-to skyn sensation
Long lasting, ultra smooth lubricated enhances the experience!
Each condom electronically tested to meet U.S. & Safety & Reliability standards
Introducing Durex Avanti Bare condoms, one of the most technologically advanced condoms ever produced. Made from an ultra refined polyisoprene material, the Durex Avanti Bare Condom is considerably softer and more comfortable to use than its popular predecessor. The high tech material of Avanti Bare is thinner than any latex condom available today and is well suited for those with latex allergies. Please note: Durex Avanti Bare Condoms are not compatible with oil-based lubricants.
Suitable for natural rubber latex sensitive users*.
Soft-as-skin polymer for an exceptional natural feel.
Softer and better feeling than polyurethane.
Specially shaped to be easy to put on and more comfortable to wear.
Our condoms are specially made to smell better.
An excellent alternative for those that are allergic to latex, Trojan Supra condoms are made from polyurethane, a latex alternative. Easily able to transfer body heat for more intimate sensations, they have the added benefit of no latex scent. Ultra-thin, they offer plenty of sensitivity, while built-in lubrication gives a silky smooth experience. These condoms, unlike latex, can also be used with oil-based lubricants.
The Naturalamb brand condom is different from a latex condom because it is made from a natural membrane, you will find it has its own special feeling of sensitivity. Each Naturalamb brand condom is tested to help ensure reliability and individually packaged for ease of use. The condoms are lubricated with a unique jelly-type lubricant and then rolled for your further comfort and convenience. Naturalamb brand condoms also have the exclusive Kling-Tite band at the top for added safety.