Our lube is eminently suitable for women because:
We say No to these Nasties
Chlorhexidine
An antibacterial agent, which can indiscriminately disrupt healthy vaginal flora.
Cyclomethicone, cyclopentasiloxane and cyclotetrasiloxane
Commonly found in silicone-based lubricants, these chemicals have been linked with uterine cancer in animal studies. There has been almost no research conducted to examine the long term impacts of vaginal exposure to these chemicals in women.
Glycerine
This can be a naturally occurring product but, found in most intimate lubricants, feeds the fungus Candida albicans, even at low concentrations. Candida albicans is responsible for most cases of vaginal thrush. Glycerine also increases the osmolarity of a lube, making damage to vaginal mucosa more likely, and therefore more susceptible to opportunistic infection by Candida app or Gardnerella vaginalis
Mineral Oils and derivatives
Oils derived from crude oil production. These are used in the traditional cosmetic industry due to their skin feel and economic price. However, these can break down condoms and cause intimate irritation, increased risk of infections and changes in vaginal pH.
Nonoxynol 9
This is a detergent and surfactant (which are often included in cosmetics for their catering or emulsifying properties), was found to ‘punch’ a hole in the cell membrane of sperm, thereby making it suitable for use as a spermicide. However, it is so good at breaking down cell membranes that this may also have the same effect on vaginal cell membranes, increasing risk of infection.
Octoxynol 9
A detergent and surfactant which may cause irritation and endocrine disruption.
Parabens
A family of synthetic preservatives found in many cosmetics and personal care products which may have a link to hormone disruption.
Phthalates
Plasticisers found in a whole host of cosmetics and plastic toys. Some of these are suspected endocrine/hormone disrupters and may be linked to reproductive toxicity and fertility issues.
Polyquaternium 15
Sometimes found in water based lubricants, Polyquaternium 15, a positively charged polymer, appeared to actively increase HIV replication in cell cultures in one study, and therefore could raise one’s risk of HIV transmission
Propylene Glycol
This is a synthetic liquid substance that absorbs water and is also used as an anti-freeze in the food, chemical and pharmaceutical industries that may cause allergic contact dermatitis, with a higher incidence in those with eczema or fungal infections.
Sodium Hydroxide
Also known as lye or caustic soda, this is a strongly alkali substance.
Synthetic Dyes
Substances that confer colour. They may cause irritation on contact and exposure to intimate mucosal membranes and skin.
Synthetic Fragrances
Substances that confer scent. Often a combination of products of unknown toxicity and allergy, they are often attributed to vaginal irritation and therefore higher susceptibility to infection. Any of our products that are scented will be done so using essential oils and are not advised for use on intimate skin.
Tricolsan
An antibacterial preservative, which may be associated with hormone disruption.