There are so many different kinds of sexual enhancers on the market, it can be hard to tell what’s “real” and what’s got the same level of credibility as a $10 Gucci handbag. So we looked into arousal gels and how they actually work to enhance your sex life.
There are many ways in which a person could be experiencing sexual dissatisfaction. A person could be new to a relationship and nervous about communicating their needs and desires, or they’re in a long term relationship and in need of some new and exciting sexual exploration. They could have recently had surgery and be experiencing issues with arousal and orgasm as a result, or perhaps they’ve started a new medication like anti-depressants and are finding that it’s affecting their sexual function. Perhaps they’re getting older and are either menopausal or post-menopausal, so the level of estrogen has lowered, which sometimes causes vaginal dryness and decreased sensitivity/blood flow. Maybe they’re just new to sexual intercourse and haven’t found their favorite ways to get off yet (or haven’t had their first orgasm yet!).
Our sexuality is complex and has many overlapping elements to it that can come into play, whether we’re on our own or with a partner. Issues of sexual intimacy, partner satisfaction, previous sexual experiences and self-image are also factors to consider in maintaining our sexual health.
So while some of these concerns have to be addressed by a medical professional, others can be aided by a trip to MaXXX Black for some advice and a little shopping.
Here at MB we carry a variety of arousal gels and lubricants to help you along the way.
Intimate Earth Intense Clitoral Arousal Serum
Made with certified organic ingredients this gel uses peppermint as the active ingredient. It is free from parabens and is even vegan and vegetarian approved.
La Viva
A natural, Australian-made clitoral enhancement gel that uses L-Arginine to improve blood-flow and sensitivity. No artificial colours, chemicals or synthetic hormones.
Pure Med
Pjur Med products are water-based lubricants with active plant extracts, vitamins and essences that work to stimulate or heat-up our pleasure-zones. Natural preservatives and quality ingredients. Made in Germany.
Sliquid Organics Sensation is a water-based, warming, organic personal lubricant botanically infused with natural ingredients, including food-grade menthol. Approved by the Vegan Society.
Some arousal gels on the market are made from oil-based ingredients, including essential oils. Those that do may not be suitable for use with a condom, so it’s important to check the ingredients if you’re purchasing gels from another store. All of MaXXX Black’s arousal gels and lubricants are suitable for use with latex condoms too – so safe sex won’t be an issue. Our gels are also compatible with silicone toys, so you can play confidently knowing your toys, and your body, are safe and sexy!
The primary function of these arousal gels is to promote vasocongestion, or the swelling of tissue that increases blood flow to an area of the body. The increased blood flow can increase the sensitivity of an area when a gel is applied topically. The resulting vasocongestion is responsible for erections, the swelling of the nipples, the tingling around the clitoris as well as the “sex flush” some people get in their cheeks and face. Vasocongestion can be stimulated by a variety of arousal gel ingredients, including L-Arginine (the amino acid that precedes nitric oxide production, causing increased blood flow), menthol (which may promote the gel’s absorption and draw blood to the area) and niacin, or B3 (which causes flushing). Cinnamon oil has long been used as a sexual stimulant as well, due to its tingling, stimulating effects.
It’s best to try a gel or lube on the inside of your mouth before applying it to the genital area. This will give you a better idea of how the sensitive skin of the genitals will react. The reaction will vary significantly from person to person, so like any new product, proceed slowly and listen to your body. Arousal gels only address one physical aspect of sexual function, so don’t be discouraged if they’re not the right product for you.
As mentioned earlier, there are a multitude of factors to consider when examining sexual satisfaction and overall health. And if you have concerns about the ingredients in a product and how they might react with any other medication you’re taking, consulting your doctor or a qualified sex therapist is key.
