Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsMaterial and BenefitsVarieties and SizesHow to UseFrequently Asked Questions
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Material and Benefits
Varieties and Sizes
How to Use
Frequently Asked Questions
LifeStyles SKYN condoms are the original brand of non-latex condoms. These condoms are made ofpolyisoprene, a synthetic form of natural rubber latex. Polyisoprene is safe for those with alatex allergyand offers a natural feel during sex.
This article discusses the benefits of SKYN condoms. It also compares their use among condom alternatives touted as the best-feeling brands.
Skyn
SKYN Condom Material and Benefits
Polyisoprene condoms are made without latex. This makes SKYN condoms a great alternative if you or your partner have a latex allergy, which may occur in up to 7.6% of the general population.
According to manufacturer LifeStyles, its SKYNFEEL polyisoprene is created in the laboratory. The company produces these latex-free products in a totally separate facility from its other brands so that there’s no possibility of contamination.
The proprietary material changes how the SKYN brands perform and feel. When compared withpolyurethane condoms, SKYN condoms are designed to be:
Some people who can use latex condoms still prefer to buy SKYN condoms because they offer a unique sensation and increased sensitivity. The brand’s ingredients include:
Are Non-Latex Condoms Effective?Lifestyles assures users that SKYN condoms are as effective as latex condoms. Condom use overall offers an 86% to 97% protection rate, depending on how correctly they are used.Keep in mind that non-latex SKYN condoms have a shelf life of about three years for those with spermicide and five years for those without spermicide.
Are Non-Latex Condoms Effective?
Lifestyles assures users that SKYN condoms are as effective as latex condoms. Condom use overall offers an 86% to 97% protection rate, depending on how correctly they are used.Keep in mind that non-latex SKYN condoms have a shelf life of about three years for those with spermicide and five years for those without spermicide.
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Skyn Condom Varieties and Sizes
SKYN condoms come in a range of varieties. They include:
SKYN condoms come in two different sizes:
If you are not sure which condom size is right for you, use acondom size chartto help you find the right one. A properly fitting condom is important not just to comfort, but efficacy.
Where Can I Buy SKYN Condoms?SKYN condoms are available online, either directly from the manufacturer or online retailers, as well as in drugstores. Expect to pay a little more for SKYN condoms than you might for latex types, but less than polyurethane options.
Where Can I Buy SKYN Condoms?
SKYN condoms are available online, either directly from the manufacturer or online retailers, as well as in drugstores. Expect to pay a little more for SKYN condoms than you might for latex types, but less than polyurethane options.
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How to Use SKYN Condoms
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) andsilicone-based lubricantscan be used with polyisoprene condoms. You should not use oil-based lubricants with SKYN condoms, as they can degrade the material.
As with other condoms, correct use is important. Be sure that you:
Are Condoms Safe for Anal Sex?
Condom Effectiveness Against Pregnancy
Summary
SKYN condoms, a Lifestyles brand, are latex-free. This makes them a good option for people who have latex allergies or have sex with those who do.
They’re made with polyisoprene, a synthetic version of natural rubber latex. The SKYN brand comes in a range of varieties that offer protection against pregnancy and STIs.
You can expect SKYN condoms to be as safe and effective as other types, provided they are used correctly and consistently when having sex.
A Word From Verywell
While other methods of contraception like birth control pills may protect against pregnancy, they cannot help prevent sexually transmitted infection transmission. SKYN brands and other condoms can help you and your sexual partners enjoy safer sex.
If you don’t knowhow to use a condom, don’t be embarrassed to ask your healthcare provider.
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Frequently Asked QuestionsThe World Health Organization puts the estimate of condom failure due to breakage at 2%, but the real-world rates are much higher. It depends on what type of sex you have (anal sex may lead to more breakage) and what type of condom you use. Since SKYN condoms are very stretchy and fit well, they may not break as easily as other options.Learn MoreWhat to Do If a Condom BreaksThe prices will vary based on where you shop, what style you purchase, and in what quantity. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay about $7 for a 12-count box.
The World Health Organization puts the estimate of condom failure due to breakage at 2%, but the real-world rates are much higher. It depends on what type of sex you have (anal sex may lead to more breakage) and what type of condom you use. Since SKYN condoms are very stretchy and fit well, they may not break as easily as other options.Learn MoreWhat to Do If a Condom Breaks
The World Health Organization puts the estimate of condom failure due to breakage at 2%, but the real-world rates are much higher. It depends on what type of sex you have (anal sex may lead to more breakage) and what type of condom you use. Since SKYN condoms are very stretchy and fit well, they may not break as easily as other options.
Learn MoreWhat to Do If a Condom Breaks
The prices will vary based on where you shop, what style you purchase, and in what quantity. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay about $7 for a 12-count box.
9 SourcesVerywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Beksinska M, Wong R, Smit J.Male and female condoms: Their key role in pregnancy and STI/HIV prevention.Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol. 2020;66:55-67. doi:10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2019.12.001Parisi CAS, Kelly KJ, Ansotegui IJ, Gonzalez-Díaz SN, Bilò MB, Cardona V, et al.Update on latex allergy: New insights into an old problem.World Allergy Organ J. 2021;14(8):100569. doi:10.1016/j.waojou.2021.100569Skyn.Condoms: Frequently asked questions.Xu M, Zhao M, Li RHW, Lin Z, Chung JPW, Li TC,et al.Effects of nonoxynol-9 (N-9) on sperm functions: systematic review and meta-analysis.Reprod Fertil. 2022;3(1):R19-R33. doi:10.1530/RAF-21-0024Marfatia YS, Pandya I, Mehta K.Condoms: past, present, and future.Indian J Sex Transm Dis AIDS. 2015;36(2):133–139. doi:10.4103/0253-7184.167135SKYN.Condoms.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Condom use.Food & Drug Administration.FDA Permits Marketing of First Condom Specifically Indicated for Anal Intercourse.Siegler AJ, Rosenthal EM, Sullivan PS, Ahlschlager L, Kelley CF, Mehta CC,et al.Double-Blind, Single-Center, Randomized Three-Way Crossover Trial of Fitted, Thin, and Standard Condoms for Vaginal and Anal Sex: C-PLEASURE Study Protocol and Baseline Data.JMIR Res Protoc. 2019;8(4):e12205. doi:10.2196/12205Additional ReadingAmerican College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.Latex allergy.Wu M, McIntosh J, Liu J.Current prevalence rate of latex allergy: Why it remains a problem?J Occup Health. 2016;58(2):138–144. doi:10.1539/joh.15-0275-RA
9 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Beksinska M, Wong R, Smit J.Male and female condoms: Their key role in pregnancy and STI/HIV prevention.Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol. 2020;66:55-67. doi:10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2019.12.001Parisi CAS, Kelly KJ, Ansotegui IJ, Gonzalez-Díaz SN, Bilò MB, Cardona V, et al.Update on latex allergy: New insights into an old problem.World Allergy Organ J. 2021;14(8):100569. doi:10.1016/j.waojou.2021.100569Skyn.Condoms: Frequently asked questions.Xu M, Zhao M, Li RHW, Lin Z, Chung JPW, Li TC,et al.Effects of nonoxynol-9 (N-9) on sperm functions: systematic review and meta-analysis.Reprod Fertil. 2022;3(1):R19-R33. doi:10.1530/RAF-21-0024Marfatia YS, Pandya I, Mehta K.Condoms: past, present, and future.Indian J Sex Transm Dis AIDS. 2015;36(2):133–139. doi:10.4103/0253-7184.167135SKYN.Condoms.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Condom use.Food & Drug Administration.FDA Permits Marketing of First Condom Specifically Indicated for Anal Intercourse.Siegler AJ, Rosenthal EM, Sullivan PS, Ahlschlager L, Kelley CF, Mehta CC,et al.Double-Blind, Single-Center, Randomized Three-Way Crossover Trial of Fitted, Thin, and Standard Condoms for Vaginal and Anal Sex: C-PLEASURE Study Protocol and Baseline Data.JMIR Res Protoc. 2019;8(4):e12205. doi:10.2196/12205Additional ReadingAmerican College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.Latex allergy.Wu M, McIntosh J, Liu J.Current prevalence rate of latex allergy: Why it remains a problem?J Occup Health. 2016;58(2):138–144. doi:10.1539/joh.15-0275-RA
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Beksinska M, Wong R, Smit J.Male and female condoms: Their key role in pregnancy and STI/HIV prevention.Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol. 2020;66:55-67. doi:10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2019.12.001Parisi CAS, Kelly KJ, Ansotegui IJ, Gonzalez-Díaz SN, Bilò MB, Cardona V, et al.Update on latex allergy: New insights into an old problem.World Allergy Organ J. 2021;14(8):100569. doi:10.1016/j.waojou.2021.100569Skyn.Condoms: Frequently asked questions.Xu M, Zhao M, Li RHW, Lin Z, Chung JPW, Li TC,et al.Effects of nonoxynol-9 (N-9) on sperm functions: systematic review and meta-analysis.Reprod Fertil. 2022;3(1):R19-R33. doi:10.1530/RAF-21-0024Marfatia YS, Pandya I, Mehta K.Condoms: past, present, and future.Indian J Sex Transm Dis AIDS. 2015;36(2):133–139. doi:10.4103/0253-7184.167135SKYN.Condoms.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Condom use.Food & Drug Administration.FDA Permits Marketing of First Condom Specifically Indicated for Anal Intercourse.Siegler AJ, Rosenthal EM, Sullivan PS, Ahlschlager L, Kelley CF, Mehta CC,et al.Double-Blind, Single-Center, Randomized Three-Way Crossover Trial of Fitted, Thin, and Standard Condoms for Vaginal and Anal Sex: C-PLEASURE Study Protocol and Baseline Data.JMIR Res Protoc. 2019;8(4):e12205. doi:10.2196/12205
Beksinska M, Wong R, Smit J.Male and female condoms: Their key role in pregnancy and STI/HIV prevention.Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol. 2020;66:55-67. doi:10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2019.12.001
Parisi CAS, Kelly KJ, Ansotegui IJ, Gonzalez-Díaz SN, Bilò MB, Cardona V, et al.Update on latex allergy: New insights into an old problem.World Allergy Organ J. 2021;14(8):100569. doi:10.1016/j.waojou.2021.100569
Skyn.Condoms: Frequently asked questions.
Xu M, Zhao M, Li RHW, Lin Z, Chung JPW, Li TC,et al.Effects of nonoxynol-9 (N-9) on sperm functions: systematic review and meta-analysis.Reprod Fertil. 2022;3(1):R19-R33. doi:10.1530/RAF-21-0024
Marfatia YS, Pandya I, Mehta K.Condoms: past, present, and future.Indian J Sex Transm Dis AIDS. 2015;36(2):133–139. doi:10.4103/0253-7184.167135
SKYN.Condoms.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Condom use.
Food & Drug Administration.FDA Permits Marketing of First Condom Specifically Indicated for Anal Intercourse.
Siegler AJ, Rosenthal EM, Sullivan PS, Ahlschlager L, Kelley CF, Mehta CC,et al.Double-Blind, Single-Center, Randomized Three-Way Crossover Trial of Fitted, Thin, and Standard Condoms for Vaginal and Anal Sex: C-PLEASURE Study Protocol and Baseline Data.JMIR Res Protoc. 2019;8(4):e12205. doi:10.2196/12205
American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.Latex allergy.Wu M, McIntosh J, Liu J.Current prevalence rate of latex allergy: Why it remains a problem?J Occup Health. 2016;58(2):138–144. doi:10.1539/joh.15-0275-RA
American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.Latex allergy.
Wu M, McIntosh J, Liu J.Current prevalence rate of latex allergy: Why it remains a problem?J Occup Health. 2016;58(2):138–144. doi:10.1539/joh.15-0275-RA
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