Sensitivity enhancers in the USA

What is a sensitivity enhancer?

In most cases it is a topical product that increases the nerve response of erogenous zones, so they react more to touch. You put it on the clitoris, nipples, glans or any area you want to make more sensitive. They usually come as gels, creams, lubricants and sprays, from oils with a tingling effect to balms that increase local blood flow, and all of them aim to boost what you already feel. They are applied directly and you notice them straight away.

Almost everything in this category is applied to the skin: gels, liquid vibrator gels, cooling lubricants, sprays and Brazilian balls, with Secret Play and Orgie as the brands with the most models, followed by Taloka's Brazilian Balls. Drops, capsules and supplements taken by mouth, such as those from RUF, are sold as food supplements and are not here, but under aphrodisiacs. Don't confuse them with delay products, which do the opposite: they reduce sensitivity to delay ejaculation. If you want something designed just for her, see the female orgasm enhancers; for erections, the male enhancers, and for a full-body massage, the massage oils.

Types of sensitivity enhancers

What you feel depends on what is in it, and the ingredient list is on the product page. L-arginine is an amino acid that the body converts into nitric oxide, a natural vasodilator: it increases local blood flow and, with it, sensitivity. Menthol gives a tingle and a mix of cool and warm sensations that wakes up the nerve endings. Niacin (vitamin B3) is a rubefacient: it reddens the area because it increases circulation. Some also contain plant extracts such as ginseng, ginger or cinnamon, natural stimulants.

Among the reference brands for enhancers are Sensuva ON, the most potent; System JO Clitoral, with a wide range; Bijoux Indiscrets Clitherapy, in discreet packaging, and Shunga Rain of Love, which is organic.

• Warming effect: gels and balls that give a feeling of heat on the skin, some so intense that the product page describes them as super warming.
• Cooling effect: gels and lubricants that refresh the area; several also work for massage or oral sex, and the product page says so.
• Liquid vibrator gel: leaves a tingle reminiscent of a gentle vibration, with no device needed, and some have a taste, such as blackberry or mint.
• Brazilian balls: small capsules that melt with body heat and release an oil-based lubricant with a warming, cooling or vibrating effect.
• Drops, capsules and supplements: those taken by mouth are food supplements, are not applied to the skin and are under aphrodisiacs, with the dose and ingredients on their product page. Orgie's Orgasm Drops in this section, despite the name, are a gel applied to the clitoris.

Safety

The first time, try a small amount to see how your skin reacts. Don't put it on wounds or irritated skin, and wash your hands afterwards so you don't get it in your eyes. For the mouth, use only those the product page lists as suitable for oral sex. Oils can weaken latex: Brazilian balls contain oil and their manufacturers warn that they are not compatible with condoms, so with condoms choose a product the product page declares compatible. If you plan to take drops, capsules or supplements and you are on medication, are pregnant or have a health condition, ask your doctor or pharmacist first.

How to choose

• Effect: the product page says whether it warms, cools or gives a vibrating tingle; choose according to what you want to feel.
• Who it is for and where: check whether it is designed for her, for him or is unisex, and which area it is applied to.
• Format: a gel of a few drops for a specific spot, a lubricant if you also want glide, balls if you prefer something that melts on its own.
• Oral sex and taste: look for “suitable for oral sex” on the product page if a mouth will be involved, and for the taste if it has one.
• Condoms: check that it is compatible with latex if you use them; water-based products tend to cause fewer problems.
• Quantity: the millilitres are on the product page; a 15 ml size is enough to try, a 150 ml size lasts if you also use it as a lubricant.

Sensitivity enhancers: frequently asked questions

Do stimulating gels really work?

Yes. Those containing L-arginine, menthol or both have a proven physiological effect: they increase blood flow and local nerve sensitivity. The effect varies between people, but most notice more sensitivity, tingling and more intense orgasms.

Can you use them with a vibrator?

Yes, and it is the most effective combination: the gel increases sensitivity and the vibrator provides the stimulation. Apply the gel 2-3 minutes before using the vibrator so it takes effect; together they can produce significantly more intense orgasms than either one on its own.

How long does it take to work and how long does it last?

Very little time: 1-3 minutes. The effect is temporary, 30-60 minutes, and unless the product page says otherwise you can reapply a little.

Is a stimulating gel the same as a delay product?

No. A stimulating gel increases sensitivity, while a delay product reduces it to delay ejaculation. If you want to last longer, see the delay products.

Can you use them anally?

Only if the product page says so. The anal area is more sensitive and does not self-lubricate, so the warming effect or the menthol can sting too much; for anal sex an anal lubricant is better.

Do drops help increase sexual desire?

We can't promise that. Drops taken by mouth are food supplements, not medicines, and the response varies a lot from one person to another; they are under aphrodisiacs, not in this section. Follow the dose on the product page and, if low desire worries you, talk to a professional.

What should I do if it stings or burns?

Wash with plenty of lukewarm water and stop using it. A tingle is normal, but if the stinging doesn't go away or your skin becomes irritated, don't use that product again.

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