These Expert-Recommended Arousal Gels Level Up Your Time Between the Sheets

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In the quest to boost your sex life, you might find yourself willing to try, well, almost anything. But what if the answer was as simple as adding an arousal gel? You might think of these gel serums as another term for personal lubricants, but it turns out they serve a much different (dare we say even exhilarating?) purpose.

When it comes to these products, “it’s not about smoothing things up; it’s about every touch feeling deeper, and every moment becoming more immersive,” says Aliyah Moore, Ph.D., a certified sex therapist. “This can be a great help for people who have difficulties being turned on or who want to add an extra dimension to their sex lives.”

Meet the experts: Sameena Rahman, a board-certified ob/gyn and advisor to Evvy; Aliyah Moore, Ph.D., a certified sex therapist; and Tara Suwinyattichaiporn, Ph.D., a professor of sexual and relational communication at California State University, Fullerton

“Arousal gels work by increasing sensitivity in the genital area, improving the chances of having an orgasm,” explains Sameena Rahman, a board-certified ob/gyn and advisor to Evvy. “They have certain ingredients that allow this to happen, such...L-arginine, essential oils, and herbs,” which promote blood flow to the genital area and increase sensation and the chances of orgasm.

Our top picks:

Ahead, find expert-approved arousal gels to boost your sex drive and have more satisfying orgasms. No matter your preferences between the sheets, we’re sure one of these products deserves a spot on your nightstand.

Though some experts tout benefits associated with CBD and sex, the science is scarce. While it’s derived from the same plant that produces tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD does not have the same psychoactive properties as THC—but whether or not products contain THC gets tricky. The other big unknown is CBD dosing—we don’t know a ton about how much people should take, or even how much gets absorbed through mucous membranes like the vagina and the mouth. It’s also important to note that CBD is not a U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved (FDA)-ingredient in sexual lubricants, so use caution when bringing CBD into the bedroom. Additionally, U.S. Customs and Borders Protection (CBP) recommends that you exercise caution when purchasing CBD products as, “There are both federal and state regulations regarding the purchase and use of cannabidiol (CBD) products, creating confusion on whether it can be purchased or consumed legally.”

Intense Pleasure Gel

This pleasure gel by legendary brand K-Y comes highly recommended by Dr. Rahman. It’s “meant to stimulate sensations for her and features an aloe-based formula,” she explains. “It’s perfect for pleasure with a partner because it’s safe to use with latex and polyisoprene condoms.” The brand explains that just a few drops of this arousal gel will provide “waves of warming, cooling, or tingling sensations.”

It's a Match! Liquid Vibrator

“This arousal gel is an exciting partner for intimate pleasure, giving instant tingling and warming sensations that are intended to assist in the process of agitation and increase blood flow to the clitoris,” Moore explains. The gel contains a variety of traditional and modern ingredients for “a great formula of anti-inflammatory, aphrodisiac, soothing, and hydrating properties,” she adds. Plus, the brand says this fast-acting arousal gel lasts an impressive 40 minutes.

Awaken Arousal Oil With CBD

“This unique product contains a mix of CBD and kava extracts, essential oils, and botanical extracts,” explains Dr. Rahman. “It is designed to provide a warm, stimulating effect for women.” This arousal is also recommended by Tara Suwinyattichaiporn, Ph.D., a professor of sexual and relational communication at California State University, Fullerton. She points to a consumer study conducted by a third-party lab which “found that 100% of users agreed it improved their sexual experiences, with about 91% agreeing it awakened and improved their sex drive.”

BAD DAY KILLER Clitoral balm

Looking for a formula meant to work magic on the clitoral area? Look no further than this clitoral balm recommended by Moore which “gives an instant warming effect, heightening sensitivity and boosting blood flow.” She adds that it also works well as a lubricant due to the coconut and almond oil base. “It provides greatly increased sensitivity to touch, making it a must-have for enhanced pleasure.”

Feel the Warmth Warming Arousal Gel for Women

This warming arousal gel from Promescent is sure to heat things up in the bedroom. It increases pleasure via warming and tingling sensations to seriously heighten pleasure. Plus, it “doubles as a lubricant [and] is paraben and hormone-free,” explains Dr. Rahman. “Perfect to use alone or with a partner!” One reviewer said the gel is “great for spicing things up or just getting in the mood.”

Arousal Serum

Dame was founded by a sexologist about 10 years ago and sells a variety of doctor-approved products like their popular arousal serum. “This is a topical product only for external use that is doctor-approved and pH-balanced,” Suwinyattichaiporn says. “It provides warm tingles and has clear instructions on the box.” One Dame reviewer wrote that “this stuff and magic” and added, “the tingle is the best addition to self-pleasure or even with a partner.”

Female Essential Arousal Oil

“This provides increased clitoral and vaginal warmth, heightened arousal, and increased sexual pleasure in both women with and without sexual arousal disorders,” Dr. Rahman explains. “It is a topical botanical formula with evening primrose, borage seed oil, and other root extracts.” Plus, Dr. Rahman adds that this product was even studied to enhance sexual arousal, including in patients with SSRI-induced sexual arousal complaints.

DO HER Premium Female Arousal Gel

This water-based formula is condom-safe, edible, and offers a quick and easy cleanup. It works by increasing blood flow and sensation to the areas applied. “This is a high-quality gel made with natural ingredients and does not include parabens or petroleum,” Dr. Rahman adds. Reviewers say it’s highly effective, too. “The moment I applied a small amount of the gel, I felt an immediate tingling sensation that enhanced sensitivity in the most pleasurable way,” one Amazon reviewer wrote.

Mood Maker

This sensual-smelling arousal oil contains plant-based ingredients including adaptogens and aphrodisiacs to not only boost libido and heighten sensation but also moisturize and hydrate the skin, wherever you decide to apply it. “It is recommended by many sex experts and safe for internal and external use,” Suwinyattichaiporn says. “However I always recommend testing it first to see if you find it irritating.” She adds that since the formula is oil-based, it is not compatible with latex condoms or accessories.

Stim for Him

“Designed for men, this arousal gel provides tingling, cooling, and warming sensations for maximized pleasure,” says Dr. Rahman. “It’s designed to work with lube and uses all-natural extracts.” This water-based arousal gel is safe to use with all condoms and toys, regardless of material. However, the brand notes that this product is for external use only and should be used underneath a condom during penetrative sex.

Tingle to Mingle

Another pick from Hello Cake, a brand previously recommended by Dr. Rahman, is the company’s arousal gel for women. This balm is formulated for use on the clitoris (note: not for vaginal use) and provides warming and cooling sensations to increase pleasure and sensitivity. While this product is not a personal lubricant and is intended only for external use, the water-based formula is safe to use with condoms should they come in contact.

Women’s Pleasure Serum

“This is a water-based formula that promotes natural lubrication and is compatible with condoms,” notes Dr. Rahman. The formula contains CBD derived from the hemp plant, which the brand claims relaxes the vaginal and clitoral muscles for increased pleasure. It also contains liposomes, which purportedly help transport CBD beyond the skin for a more effective formula that promotes “easier, longer, more intense, and more satisfying orgasms,” per the brand.

Tingling Sensorial Personal Lubricant

This lubricant/arousal gel combination product is well-loved by reviewers, with over 3,400 five-star ratings on Amazon. Plus, it’s from K-Y, a brand trusted and recommended by doctors (like Dr. Rahman). Not only does this water-based formula supplement the body’s natural lubrication, but it also provides a tingling sensation for enhanced pleasure and glide. “I really enjoyed using this lube, every time I used it me and my partner have an amazing time,” one Amazon reviewer wrote. “That cool and tingling feel is on another level.”

Aphrodisia Orgasm Enhancer Balm

“This arousal gel multiplies sensation and preps your body for powerful climaxes, and it is specifically designed for that purpose,” Moore explains. “Not only does it have the sensual aphrodisiac scent but also comes in a convenient package that makes it a must-have.” Plus, reviewers love it too. “This stuff is awesome! It makes everything feel all tingly and nice. I like how it warms things up down there. It’s like a little hug for your lady bits,” one Bijoux Indiscrets reviewer wrote

Excite Female Sexual Stimulating Gel

This stimulating gel from SKYN is powered by L-arginine which helps relax the body and increase blood flow for heightened sensation. The formula is water-based which means it’s compatible with toys and condoms, for safer and more enjoyable sex. This arousal gel also has over 1,400 five-star ratings on Amazon. “I love this product. It’s great for alone play or partner play time. It feels great when applying. Within just a few seconds your clitoris will be tingling and you will be excited,” one Amazon reviewer wrote. “It doesn’t leave a sticky or greasy mess either.

How to choose and use the best arousal gel

✔️ Choose gentle formulas. Moore recommends looking for an arousal gel with “skin-friendly ingredients” and avoiding “harsh chemicals, fragrances, and artificial additives,” as these can cause irritation or allergic reactions. Additionally, Moore and Suwinyattichaiporn both recommend choosing a pH-balanced formula to keep the vaginal microbiome healthy and reduce the risk of infections.

✔️ Look for stimulating ingredients. Common ingredients our experts recommend looking for to stimulate blood flow and sensitivity are L-arginine and capsaicin, though Dr. Rahman notes that L-arginine may worsen herpes outbreaks in those who have the virus. Cinnamon is another ingredient Dr. Rahman recommends looking for.

✔️ Opt for a water-based formula. Like personal lubricants, arousal gels are water-, oil-, or silicone-based. Moore recommends choosing a water-based formula as these are “condom safe” and “compatible with most sex toys.” She adds that they have the added benefit of an easier clean-up and tend to be less irritating to the skin.

✔️ Check out reviews and recommendations. “You may use reviews and recommendations from current users to decide whether this particular product is effective and reliable,” Moore suggests. “Take in the remarks regarding sensitivity, sensation, and side effects. Be open to this feedback.”

How we chose the best arousal gel

We spoke with Tara Suwinyattichaiporn, Ph.D., a tenured professor of sexual and relational communication at California State University, Fullerton; Aliyah Moore, Ph.D., a certified sex therapist; and Sameena Rahman, a board-certified ob/gyn and advisor to Evvy. We also sifted through countless online reviews to find the best arousal gels available.

Why trust us

For more than 70 years, Prevention has been a leading provider of trustworthy health information, empowering readers with practical strategies to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our editors interview medical experts to help guide our health-focused product selections. Additionally, Prevention also examines hundreds of reviews—and often conducts personal testing done by our staff—to help you make informed decisions.

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