SKYN Non-Latex Condoms

Lifestyles SKYN condoms are a brand of non-latex condoms. They are a male birth control method and consist of a flexible sheath that is made with polyisoprene (which is a natural rubber). SKYN condoms are designed to cover the penis during sexual intercourse for contraception or as a means of preventing sexually transmitted diseases. Lifestyles SKYN condoms are one of only a handful of available brands of non-latex condoms. These polyisoprene condoms were FDA approved in November 2008 for the prevention of pregnancy as well as for sexually transmitted diseases.

Polyisoprene condoms are one of the more recent condom options on the market. According to Lifestyles, the polyisoprene that is used to make SKYN condoms is created in a laboratory and is specially treated to give it crosslinks — these crosslinks allow the polyisoprene to stretch much more. This special treatment also help the condoms to recover their original shape after being stretched. Compared to polyurethane condoms, SKYN condoms are:

• Softer
• More form fitting
• A little thicker
• Stretchier
• More resistant to breakage

And, even more, SKYN condoms cost way less than polyurethane condoms (but they are more expensive than latex condoms).

Since they are not made from latex, SKYN condoms are a great alternative if you or your partner have a latex allergy. Even people who can use latex condoms still prefer to buy SKYN condoms because they offer a unique sensation and increased sensitivity.

Polyisoprene is a natural rubber and contains many of the same chemical properties as latex. It is a synthetic version of a material derived from the sap of the hevea tree. But the polyisoprene in SKYN condoms does not contain the natural proteins that are usually the cause of people's latex allergies. The molecules in polyisoprene are very different — this is what allows SKYN condoms to give you a natural, soft feeling. SKYN condoms are also manufactured in a separate facility, away from latex condoms, so this lowers the risk of any cross-contamination.

You use SKYN condoms like any other condom. Although SKYN condoms come pre-lubricated, if you prefer, you can safely add extra lubrication. Both water-based lubricants (like Wet Gellee and Astroglide) and silicone-based lubricants can be used with polyisoprene condoms. You should not use oil-based lubricants with SKYN condoms.

SKYN condoms come in these varieties:

• Original
• Extra Lubricated
• Intense Feel (these have raised dots in wave design for maximum female stimulation)
• Large

SKYN condoms are rigorously tested and meet all safety standards. The effectiveness of non-latex SKYN condoms is the same as latex condoms. SKYN condoms are between 82%-98% effective. This means out of 100 women whose partners use SKYN condoms, two to 18 will become pregnant within one year. Keep in mind that non-latex, SKYN condoms have a shelf-life of about three years (but always check the expiration date before use).