Orgasm gel: do you need it and what is the best one?

Everyone’s heard of lube - but have you ever heard of orgasm gel? Designed to make sex or self pleasure with your favourite vibrator more intense and enjoyable, orgasm gel - aka arousal gel - can be used with condoms and in lieu of lubricant to add more sensations to your sex life. Be it tingling, pulsating, or increased sensitivity, there are a variety of orgasm gels available to try.

According Annabelle Knight, Lovehoney's own sex expert, "orgasm gels are a fun and effective way to enhance intimacy or sexual satisfaction. Warming lubes gently increase heat on contact, often using ingredients like coconut oil, cinnamon or arginine to boost blood flow and heighten sensitivity. Cooling gels, alternatively, offer a refreshing, tingling feel thanks to ingredients like peppermint or menthol, which stimulate the skin’s cold receptors for a light, invigorating buzz. Both options can add variety and excitement, but every body is different."

They’re particularly helpful for people who have difficulty reaching orgasm, although orgasm gels are not designed to create sensation but rather enhance it. Annabelle explains, "some people have a much longer journey to reach that big O, and a lot of the struggle is being caught up in their thoughts. While orgasm gels don’t stop those mental barriers, knowing you’ve got a helping hand in the form of orgasm gel can be very helpful for reaching climax."

She adds that even a small amount of your chosen "orgasm gels can add excitement and a little boost to your pleasure by turning up the volume for physical sensations. Whether it’s a warming tingle or a cooling buzz, that extra layer of stimulation can make it easier to keep your focus on what’s feeling good."

Best orgasm gel, a quick look

1. Best plant-based: Dame Arousal Serum, £26

2. Best water-based: Lovehoney Ignite Orgasm Gel, £8

3. Best orgasm balm: Lovehoney Bliss Balm, £8

4. Long-lasting: Ann Summers Stimulating Orgasm serum 

5. Best overall: Durex Intense Orgasmic Gel

The right orgasm gel, however, should be hypoallergenic, safe for use with condoms and toys, and shouldn’t include ingredients that may interfere with any medication you’re on. For instance, there are orgasm creams that require a prescription and a discussion with your GP first before using them. With that in mind, our roundup includes orgasm gels that are natural and affordable. 

Read on to discover the best orgasm gels for penetrative sex and masturbation that I personally feel are worth adding to your shopping list.

What are the best arousal gels?

Read on to find my pick of the best arousal gels available to buy.

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What is the difference between orgasm gels and lubes?

Orgasm gels are designed as a secret weapon to help you maximise your orgasm. That could be through creating cooling or warming sensations or heightening the sensitivity of your clitoris. Some orgasm gels have a lubricant but it's important to note that not all orgasm gels do. So if you need extra lubrication, it's worth buying a combination product or using a lubricant alongside your orgasm gel.

As Annabelle Knight explains, "unlike regular lube, orgasm gels are designed to heighten sensation with warming, cooling, or tingling effects that stimulate nerve endings and boost blood flow. They can give a unique, tingling sensation, adding extra stimulation to your body. Think of them as a playful upgrade… They don’t replace your body’s natural response but can add an exciting twist."

Are orgasm gels water or silicone-based?

All the products listed are water-based, which usually means they're gentle on skin and compatible with condoms and sex toys. Although, it's definitely worth checking before you purchase and looking at the list of ingredients to rule out any allergies.

In terms of an easy cleanup, there's no reason why your chosen orgasm gel should be difficult to get out of your sheets. But should you wish to make it even easier for yourself, it's worth considering a sex blanket.

Are all orgasm gels compatible with condoms?

Any oil-based product can damage latex and polyisoprene condoms, so make sure you check the product's ingredients before purchasing. This also goes for your choice of lubricant and massage oil, should you wish to use one. 

Annabelle says, "orgasm gels can definitely play nicely with condoms and toys, but like any good team-up, it’s all about compatibility! Most water-based gels are safe to use with both condoms and silicone toys… look for labels that say ‘condom-safe’ and ‘toy-friendly’."

Can orgasm gels cause allergies or irritations?

Some individuals may have sensitivities to certain ingredients used in oils, gels or serums. It’s important to select products that are hypoallergenic and non-toxic. Some products in our list are also free from common irritants like parabens, glycerine, or fragrances.

Annabelle advises: "If you have sensitive skin, it’s completely natural to wonder whether orgasm gels are safe to use… While orgasm can be a great addition to your intimate routine, some formulas contain ingredients like menthol, essential oils, or artificial fragrances that may irritate delicate skin."

It's important to check the ingredient list, too, she adds: "look for gels labeled as hypoallergenic, pH-balanced, and free from common irritants."

Can orgasm gels be used with sex toys?

When choosing a product, it's important to be sure that it's compatible with the material of your sex toy. As a rule of thumb, most water-based products are safe to use with all types of sex toys. Just check the manufacturer's guidelines or instructions for your specific sex toy.

As Annabelle puts it, "a quick check now means more fun later, without any surprises."

Why you should trust us

Transparency is crucial to us, and that's why we're always honest about where we find our recommendations. We write about products that we feel offer the best value to most parents – the ones that our users would recommend to their own friends and family.

About the expert

• Annabelle Knight is the resident sex and relationships expert for Lovehoney.  

About the author

Rebecca Roberts is a writer, editor, and content marketing expert hailing from Leeds. Here at Mumsnet, she commissions, writes, and edits to bring parents content designed to make life easier. After birthing and breastfeeding two babies in two years, she knows how women's health can take a backseat. She also knows first-hand how hard it can be to reignite intimacy. From condoms, to lubricants, to sex toys - she’s on a quest to find the best ones, with the help of Mumsnet user recommendations.

Beyond her role as an editor here at Mumsnet, Rebecca can be found balancing life as a working mum of two toddlers and when she’s not at her desk, you’ll likely find her at a local playgroup, in a nearby coffee shop, walking the dog, or hiding from her neighbour as she attempts to buy condoms during her weekly “Big Food Shop”.

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