12 Arousal Gels To Try If You Want to Have Better Sex

Sex gels, aka arousal gels, sound like they’re too good to be true, but they can actually be helpful in increasing your pleasure if you know what to look for, how to use them, and how they work. First of all, keep in mind these formulas mostly work to enhance sensation, not create it from scratch. “These products amplify what you’re already feeling,” explains Dr. Tamika Cross, MD, an OBGYN in Pearland, Texas. “So, when you’re getting aroused or having an orgasm, it’s just enhancing that already natural, sensitive sensation,” Dr. Cross adds.

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OBGYN Dr. Peace Nwegbo-Banks, MD, also from Pearland, Texas, explains that arousal gels work by “increasing oxygen delivery and blood flow to genital tissue,” which can increase sensation and lead to enhanced sexual arousal, lubrication, and climax. Not only do the ingredients and actual formula help with pleasure, but the actual process of applying a product can also help with arousal, as Dr. Brandye Wilson-Manigat, MD, an OBGYN says. Hey, taking some time to touch your genitals and indulge in some self-care and or self-love is always helpful!

When picking a sex gel or arousal gel, our expert docs say to look for formulas with cinnamon oil, menthol, gingko biloba, peppermint, CBD, or THC (if available where you live) as these will help increase sensation the most. Arginine is also a helpful ingredient for its vasodilating properties, though Dr. Brandye notes that this is usually in compounded formulations that would require a prescription.

As for what to stay away from, read the label so you’re not buying anything you’re allergic to. And please, don’t try to substitute a product not marketed as a sex or arousal gel like Bengay or Icy-Hot, as Dr. Cross notes. You might think you’re being slick since that stuff is ~cooling~ too, but it’s a really bad idea. “Those products aren’t meant to go on such sensitive skin or inside the body,” Dr. Cross says.

Another good reason you’ll wanna check that ingredient list: formulas with oil (which is unfortunately most sex gels) are not compatible with silicone toys or latex condoms, as the oil can break down silicone or latex.

Once you’ve got a formula picked out, Dr. Brandye says to do a test application on a less-sensitive area like your wrist or leg, to see what the reaction may be like before you use it on the sensitive skin of your genitals. “Start with a small amount and wait at least 15 minutes to see the effects. If no changes noted, apply a little more.” She also adds that if you accidentally put too much on, wash it off with some warm water and a mild (preferably unscented) soap, and add a little coconut oil if it’s available to help soothe your skin.

So, if you’re looking for some arousal or sex gels to try out, here are some of our top picks.

1. Trojan Arouses & Intensifies

Dr. Brandye recommends this product, which contains menthol, as one of her top picks. It’s made by Trojan, so it’s available pretty widely, and it’s a lubricant, so you know it’s safe to get inside you. It’s unscented and also safe for use with latex condoms, which is a big win. Most arousal gel formulas are not compatible with latex condoms, so this is pretty rare.

2. On Arousal Gel

This formula doesn’t contain L-Arginine, menthol, or citrus, so if you’re allergic to any of those, this would be a good one to try. It’s made of an oil-base, so you can’t use it with latex condoms, but you can use it with polyurethane condoms.

3. Bad Day Killer Clitoral Balm

This clitoral balm is also oil-based, so it’s a no-go with latex condoms, although it’s safe for other materials. This is also a warming balm, which is nice to try if you find formulas with menthol or other cooling sex gels to be…not a hit for you personally.

These arousal elixirs have ingredients like menthol, arginine, and peppermint that increase blood flow or create a tingly feeling of warmth or cooling.

This is a solid starter choice if you just want a lil something but don’t want to risk being stuck with a sensation you’re not into. It’s a subtle feeling with a slooow build, and it doesn’t smell or feel like Icy Hot, JIC you were wondering!

Tracey Cox Supersex Orgasm Gel, $10, lovehoney.com

It’s warm like in the VapoRub way but, like…sexy, condom-safe VapoRub. And for the resulting five-star orgasms, worth it. (Tip: The mentholated sensation doesn’t magically stop when you orgasm, so skip the pillow talk and go for round two instead—you might as well!)

Fifty Shades of Grey Come Alive Pleasure Gel for Her, $10, lovehoney.com

Fire down below! Be warned: This one’s very intense, so much so that if you’re feeling a BDSM vibe, you could almost leave it on afterward as sort of a burn-y sexual punishment. This one’s also compatible with latex condoms, FYI!

Lovehoney Luxury Orgasm Balm, $25, lovehoney.com

This is a maximum sensation (or straight-up burn, depending on your sensitivity). As an unexpected bonus, it’s fresh and minty, like your vag just got brushed.

Wicked Ultra Heat, $20, babeland.com

It’s a heat but not the ouch-it-burns kind—more like a general, pleasant warmth. It smells like cinnamon, which is not for everyone but CAN be nice. It is also vegan and doubles as a silicone lube (which means it’s extra slippery, so just be careful if using in the shower).

Bliss Orgasm Balm, $15, lovehoney.com

This menthol and shea butter combo makes for an extremely fire crotch feel, depending on how much you use (you really only need a little to feel it, hence the teeny container). It is pretty intense and could become an interesting addition if you’re into sensation play! Unfortch, this is one of the ones not to use with condoms, but it’s great for solo-ing or having your partner get you off some other way!

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These contain CBD and/or small amounts of THC to increase blood flow, heighten sensation, and stimulate natural lubrication. Some people experience deeper orgasm or more pleasure and feel more relaxed, but again, your results may vary. Massage them into your vulva for 15 minutes to get the full effect—it’s sort of built-in foreplay, if you will. (And if you live in Colorado or California, it’s the non-THC version for you!)

Simple Jane Temptress, $45, simplejane.co

This oil boasts a spicy clove scent, a warmth that feels more organic than chemical, and 50 mg of CBD for suuuper-heightened sensations. Even a slow, meandering stroke can take you to a next-level orgasm.

Foria Pleasure, $60, foriawellness.com

THC and CBD combine for a feeling that’s not warm or cold, just more. By the time you hit the 15-minute mark of your pre-massage, you’ll be SO ready to go (just make sure not to use this with latex condoms!).

Foria Awaken, $48, babeland

The THC-free, subtle-smelling version of Foria Awaken also can’t be used with condoms, but it IS fully lick-able, in case you were wondering (it’s CBD and kava in an MCT base, so it’s probably keto??). Warning: may come with after-pleasure throbs that will send you back for more.

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