Skyn Condoms and Lubricants

Discreet delivery on SKYN products

At this point, deep into the 2020s, everyone has probably purchased protection. However, we also understand that most people don’t want to advertise their purchase as it arrives wrapped in brightly coloured and obviously branded packaging. 

That was quite a week for returns.

You’ll no doubt be pleased to know we’ll deliver your SKYN condoms, lubricants and accessories in generic, nondescript packaging (like the below). Nobody will ever know it’s not just another of your many Amazon deliveries.

What are SKYN condoms and who makes them?

SKYN non-latex condoms are primarily designed to cater to people with latex allergies, and people who don't want to use latex condoms for any other reason (the use of casein, an animal product in many latex condoms, for example, makes many condoms unsuitable for vegetarian and vegan customers). 

However, the brand name has often created confusion for customers, with some believing they're made from lamb's skin (like brands such as Trojan). We can confirm, however, that SKYN condoms are made from a proprietary synthetic material called SKYNFEEL that is both softer, and more natural-feeling than latex.

The brand’s trademarked variety of polyisoprene is able to deliver the same strength and protection as latex products, despite being noticeably thinner, meaning that SKYN condoms provide skin-on-skin sensations – which is where the brand name originates (someone should have words, though - probably the same people that named Soylent meal shakes after a scifi food made from people).

SKYN products are manufactured by the same company that produces Mates condoms, Lifestyle Condoms, a subsidiary of Ansell Limited - one of the largest, multinational companies in the healthcare industry. 

How do I choose the right SKYN condom?

SKYN condoms come in a variety of styles and sizes, aiming to be suitable for all customers and situations. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a SKYN condom:

Type of condom

SKYN condoms can be roughly divided (well, gently divided, you can’t be too careful with these things) into six main categories. The first step to fulfilling, well protected sex is picking the right SKYN condom for you.

Condom width

It’s common to worry about the length when buying a condom, but the truth - it’s actually the width which is the most important thing to check. This is because most condoms have sufficient length for most penis sizes (it is, after all, the ‘business end’ we need to concern ourselves with), but a condom that is too snug or too large will reduce the intensity of sensation, lead to discomfort, and might even slide off or break during sex.

Unlike other manufacturers, SKYN doesn't offer a huge variety of sizes - you can choose from the regular size, with a nominal width of 53mm, or a larger size with nominal width of 56mm. However, despite the seeming lack of choice, 53mm condoms fit most users.

Do SKYN condoms contain spermicide?

TL;DR: no. 

SKYN condoms are lubricated with a silicone-based lubricant with additional aloe vera for comfort and smoothness, but it doesn't contain a spermicidal agent. This is not through lack of research, however, SKYN’s choice of a non-spermicidal lube was the result of studies that have consistently demonstrated that most spermicides carry increased risks of allergic reactions while delivering no definitive indication of improved efficacy in reducing unwanted pregnancy.

The World Health Organisation, for example, has offered the following public advice:

“[There] is no evidence that condoms lubricated with N9 [Nonoxynol-9, a common spermicidal agent] are more effective in preventing pregnancy than lubricated condoms without N9”

In fact, spermicides have been demonstrated to increase the risk of infections and irritation in women, possibly also increasing the risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and HIV.

You can, however, use SKYN condoms with a spermicidal lubricant if you wish - though, before applying additional lubricant, read the product’s label, and make sure it is safe to use with polyisoprene condoms.

Are SKYN condoms vegan-friendly?

Like all Mates condoms (a fellow Lifestyle Condoms brand), SKYN condoms contain no animal-derived ingredients, and are not tested on animals. SKYN products are vegan certified by the Vegan Society, making them the perfect product for vegan and vegetarian customers, and are suitable for people with allergy to latex, casein, or gluten.

Are SKYN condoms compatible with SKYN lubricants?

SKYN condoms are compatible with all SKYN lubricants - as well as most water and silicone-based lubricants from other brands. It’s really important, though, that if you decide to use a lubricant from another brand, you always check on the lube's bottle or information leaflet to see if the product is safe to use with non-latex condoms (probably something to do before - instruction reading has been known to be a mood killer). However, most lubes designed for non-latex condoms will be safe to use with polyisoprene materials like SKYNFEEL, and will not damage your condom.

What is SKYNFEEL and how is it different from latex?

SKYNFEEL is SKYN’s proprietary polyisoprene material and is noticeably softer than latex, while proven to enhance sensation while remaining safe during sex.

Latex, on the other hand, is a natural material made from rubber - and widely popular thanks to its elasticity and resistance, though it can cause allergic reactions in people sensitive to latex. Some people also dislike the odour and taste of latex, whereas the SKYNFEEL material is completely odourless and tasteless (in a gustatory sense, they actually look quite dashing).

How should I store SKYN condoms?

Although SKYN condoms are not made from latex, high temperatures and sunlight will still damage them. As with any condoms you buy, you should always store SKYN condoms in their original packaging and in a cool, dry place – not exceeding 30° Celsius. Heat can cause condoms to perish and break down quickly, making them unsafe due to an increased likelihood of bursting or splitting.

You can keep SKYN condoms in your wallet temporarily, but it’s not recommended for more than a few hours - so, if the evening doesn’t go as well as anticipated, you’ll sadly need to dispose of the product.

You should also check the expiration date on the packet if you’ve had them stored for a while, and dispose of any expired condoms. 

Can SKYN condoms break?

Although SKYN condoms are made from a highly elastic material (did we mention all the sciency stuff?), they may break if handled or stored improperly. However, if you always store your SKYN condoms as explained above, you can minimise the risks of breakage. 

To avoid damaging the condom when using it, always tear the wrapper foil from a corner, using your hands - please avoid using scissors, sharp objects, or your teeth - despite the relative coolness of the latter opening technique, it’s not worth the risk.

Long, sharp nails as well as rings and other pieces of jewellery can also puncture or damage your condom, so care is always required when applying. In addition - condoms can also break if you put them on in the wrong way, because each side is lubricated differently. 

To avoid unwanted surprises, apply the condom with the rim on the outside, then roll it all the way down the shaft - if it doesn't roll properly, the chances are it may be inside out and you should dispose of it and use a new condom placed correctly.

Changing condoms whenever you switch from one type of sex to another can also minimise the risk of breakage, as well as minimising the risk of infection and irritation for your partner.

Does SKYN manufacture lube?

Personal lubricants are an excellent choice for enhanced, more satisfying sex - whether you're experiencing symptoms of dryness or not. Thankfully, SKYN manufactures an intimate lube suitable for all situations.

SKYN’s silicone-based lube

Suitable for most situations, SKYN’s All Night Long is an excellent choice for all kinds of sex - but specifically formulated to excel during longer sessions or more intense types of sex. The thicker consistency allows you to apply less product without having to reapply it as often.

Silicone-based lubes are usually compatible with all condoms, but are incompatible with silicone sex toys - so please look to carry out a patch test if you’re at all unsure (by applying a small amount to a less used area). You can, however, use them with toys made of plastic, metal, or glass.

Are SKYN lubricants compatible with latex condoms?

SKYN’s silicone lubricant may damage latex and polyurethane condoms. The easiest way to tell whether the lube you want is compatible with the type of condoms you want to use is by reading the product label. If in doubt, don’t use SKYN lube with condoms from another brand.

Where to buy SKYN condoms?

The best place to buy your SKYN condoms online is, obviously, right here at Condoms.uk. That’s not an idle boast, though - with a huge selection of brands, and products sourced directly from either the manufacturer or an approved supplier in the UK, when you place your SKYN order with us, you know you’ll receive the real deal every time (not to mention quickly and discreetly - okay, we did mention it, quite a bit really, but we sort of have to).

We also offer completely FREE, Royal Mail 48 Tracked delivery in the UK on all orders over £25. So what are you waiting for? Get to shopping our range of SKYN condoms and lubricants now!