Yes, Hyaluronic Acid Condoms Exist — and We Asked a Gyno Why
Getty Images/InStyle
Hyaluronic acid (HA) has made its mark in the world of anti-aging skincare. The hydrating humectant, a substance that helps with water retention, is actually naturally produced in our bodies, most typically found in our joints, skin, and eyes. While you likely know the ingredient from face-plumping serums and moisturizers, you may not have considered where else on your body could benefit from a little HA. Or if you have, your first guess probably wasn't: "my vagina?"
Thanks to the very same properties that make HA so successful in diminishing the look of fine lines and wrinkles, the molecule is also an effective ingredient to counter vaginal dryness. Australian sexual wellness brand Frenchie is capitalizing on this benefit with hyaluronic acid condoms.
The Beret Condom 0.05mm with Hyaluronic Acid 12-Pack
Courtesy
Shop now: $10; getfrenchie.com
Frenchie, which is also known for some stand-out toys like the popular Double Entendre double-sided vibrator, created the Beret Condoms with Hyaluronic Acid as a 100-percent natural alternative to traditional options that often use synthetic materials or even additives that are hard to notice in a complicated list of ingredients. In regards to the addition of HA, New York-based OBGYN Dr. Alyssa Dweck, MD, tells InStyle, "Many lubricants contain parabens or other ingredients that might be endocrine disruptors. Hyaluronic acid as a single ingredient doesn't pose this risk."
That's right, ladies, hyaluronic acid could now become a crucial component of both your skincare routine and sex life. Dr. Dweck, who's also the Chief Medical Officer at Bonafide Health, a company that provides solutions to women's health issues throughout their lives, says the benefits of HA go beyond just making things a bit more slippery.
"This natural ingredient has been used for years by the dermatology, ophthalmology, and orthopedic worlds for medical and cosmetic use," she says. "Finally, the gynecology world has caught on, and we are seeing benefits for vaginal dryness, sexual comfort, and pleasure." She adds that this is especially helpful for "those managing vaginal changes due to menopause."
The Beret Condom 0.05mm with Hyaluronic Acid 3-Pack
Courtesy
Shop now: $4; getfrenchie.com
A major pro of hyaluronic acid condoms, she continues, is that the natural lubrication is known to have "a non-hormonal nature for those who can't or don't want to use hormones," which can be better for maintaining your vagina's pH balance. The acid is also known for its tolerability and safety profile, making these appealing for those with sensitive skin. To her, "[hyaluronic acid and condoms] is a fantastic combination."
Frenchie makes the switch to this type of condom pretty enticing, not just because they're vegan, cruelty-free, and use cleaner ingredients, but also because of the unique way they're packaged. Each one comes in a small container that resembles a buttercup you might get with toast at a diner or with your takeout order, and when you peel the top off, the condom is always facing tip-up so there's no confusion about which way to put it on.
You can pick up a three-pack of Frenchie's the Beret Condom with Hyaluronic Acid for under $4 if you're interested in sampling the latest in sexual health. And if you're already completely on the bandwagon, the condoms are also available in larger packs of 12 up to 72.
