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In the world of barrier contraceptives, latex condoms reign supreme—but they're def not the only way to help prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. If you're allergic to or irritated by latex rubber (a plant-based material sourced from Pará rubber trees), then you'll be happy to know there are plenty of latex-free condoms on the market these days made from synthetic alternatives (like polyisoprene or polyurethane) or natural animal products (like lambskin). New to the non-latex condom game? Whether you're sensitive to latex or simply don't like the smell or feel of it, we're here to give ya the 411 on latex-free condom options.
A few things to keep in mind before you dive in: If you're looking for vegan condoms, then you'll want to avoid those made with animal products for ~obvious reasons.~ Also, keep in mind that lambskin condoms are porous, so while they're effective at preventing pregnancy, they won't protect you from sexually transmitted diseases like polyisoprene condoms and polyurethane condoms will. Here's a sneak peek at the best latex-free condoms out there, including plastic, synthetic rubber, and natural animal alternatives.
Ahead, you'll find all the best non-latex condom options, as well as everything you should know about using latex-free condoms.
Perhaps the most recognizable brand in the world of non-latex condoms, SKYN makes its products with SKYNFEEL polyisoprene, a synthetic version of natural rubber latex that's softer and just as capable of protecting against pregnancy and STDs. "If your partner has a latex allergy, no need to skip a beat. I always turn to these," says sex and relationships expert Dr. Emily Morse. "They have a softer, more natural feel than latex—that’s why they are my number ones." Choose between original, studded, extra lube, or—our personal fave—ultra-thin, which are 15 percent thinner than SKYN Original condoms for ultimate sensitivity. Just note that you shouldn't use these bbs with oil-based lubes, as oils make 'em more prone to tearing.
THE REVIEW: "SKYN Elites are our go-to condom because they are non-latex," writes one tester. "They fit well and are very thin. The polyisoprene material is soft, yet durable, and also no latex odor! We've never had one break or tear, and they are great for latex sensitive or allergic people!"
Made of thin plastic instead of rubber, polyurethane condoms offer similar levels of protection against pregnancy and STDs as latex condoms—and as a bonus, they're compatible with water-, silicone-, and oil-based lubes. Trojan Supra BareSkin condoms are your best bet when it comes to polyurethane condoms, as they're super-thin, well-lubricated, have virtually no smell, and transfer heat more effectively than latex. Plus, as board-certified ob-gyn Sheila Loanzon, DO, FACOG, says of Trojan, "They have a variety of different sizes and types for various comfort levels, pleasure, and desired experience." Because polyurethane isn't as stretchy as polyisoprene, these have a slightly looser fit, which means you'll feel less constricted—but you're also more likely to experience tearing and slipping with these.
THE REVIEW: "These are my go-to condom of choice," one review reads. "They transfer heat very well and are super sensitive. If I need to use a condom, these are the ones I want. I actually ENJOY using them, because they feel as close to using nothing at all as you can and still be using protection. Plus, they are polyurethane—SUPER THIN and no allergy issues for partners."
Like SKYN condoms, this option from Durex is made with polyisoprene for latex-free comfort. Though they aren't the thinnest non-latex condoms on the market, these boast more of a natural skin-on-skin feeling, thanks to the fact that they transfer heat and sensation very well. They also have an easier shape to roll on and stay in place during sex, and they're not scented (like SKYN condoms often are), so they have barely any odor.
THE REVIEW: According to one buyer, "These are the best condoms I've ever used. They feel a bit more real than a latex condom and don't break me out in a rash after use. And for my husband, he actually likes them, and he had always hated condoms because he couldn't do his thing with one on till he tried this one. All in all, it works for us both."
Known to have the same pregnancy efficacy rate as latex, polyurethane, and polyisoprene condoms, lambskin condoms (like this popular option from Trojan) are actually made with lamb cecum, which is the pouch located at the beginning of a lamb’s large intestine. Like other non-latex condom options, they provide a natural and more intimate feel, not to mention they're compatible with oil-based lubes and much more biodegradable. However, natural membrane condoms are not recommended for the prevention of STIs, since they're porous. As sexual wellness doctor Dr. Emily Porter previously told Cosmo, "The cellular junctions are tight enough to keep out sperm but not tight enough to protect from STDs."
THE REVIEW: "I love these things!" one reviewer writes. "It is the closest you will get to raw, and they are very comfortable for both the receiver and the giver during sex. I do not recommend these condoms if you are trying to protect yourself from STIs/STDs, but if you are in a monogamous relationship and/or get regularly tested with your partner(s) I 100% recommend them."
Another latex-free condom alternative: internal condoms, or "female condoms," which are made of nitrile with a polyurethane inner ring. Made to insert inside the vagina or anus, people of any gender can use them for vaginal or anal sex, and they help reduce the risk of both pregnancy and STIs. And as Jennifer Johnsen, MPH (who's vice president of digital programs and education at Power to Decide), previously told Cosmo, internal condoms also contain an outer ring designed to keep the condom from slipping inside you. FC2 is currently the only internal condom brand available in the U.S., and you'll love how they're heat-sensitive, flexible, and compatible with all types of lube (including oil-based!)—though it does come pre-lubricated with a silicone-based lubricant.
THE REVIEW: "They are super comfortable and feel very natural," notes one tester. "You will never go back to boring regular latex after this."
FYI, these condoms from Unique are a bit harder to find, but if for some reason SKYN, Trojan, and Durex options aren't doing it for you, then they are definitely worth the hunt. Made from polyethylene synthetic resin (aka AT-10), this condom is touted as the thinnest condom in the world with a thickness of just 0.008 millimeters—which, FTR, is very, very thin. Oh, and AT-10 is also reportedly three times as strong as standard latex. Pretty cool, no?
THE REVIEW: As one reviewer writes, "These are by far the best condoms I’ve ever used. No strong smells, no irritation, and they are so thin we had to check to make sure it was on because we definitely didn’t feel it. 10/10 these are the only ones I’ll be using from now on."
When it comes to effective, latex-free condoms, there are four main options available:
You can also find latex-free condoms made with polyethylene synthetic resin (also called AT-10), and though they're incredibly thin and durable, these condoms are much less common than other types.
Most condoms come pre-lubricated, but if you want a lil extra slip, then be sure the lube you use won't degrade the quality of your condom. Water-based lubricants and silicone-based lubricants tend to be your best options for both latex and non-latex condoms—and if you're using polyisoprene condoms, then water- and silicone-based lubes are the *only* types of lube you should be using. The reason: Polyisoprene is chemically very similar to latex, so—like latex—it tends to erode when exposed to oil-based lubricant.
However, polyurethane condoms (which are made out of thin plastic) and lambskin condoms (which are made from lamb intestines) are likely fine to use with oil-based lubes, as are internal condoms (which are made from nitrile). Ofc, if you're ever in doubt, then just stick to water- or silicone-based formulas—and always check out the condom manufacturer's instructions or website for clarification.
Not sure which non-latex condom is right for you? A few tips to point you in the right direction:
Generally speaking, polyisoprene condoms (such as Durex Real Feel Non-Latex Condoms and all SKYN condoms) tend to be the most affordable non-latex condoms, so if you're not looking to spend a lot, then those are the way to go. Polyurethane condoms (like Trojan Supra BareSkin Non-Latex Condoms) are usually slightly more $$$ than polyisoprene condoms, while lambskin condoms (like Trojan NaturaLamb Natural Skin Condoms) and internal condoms tend to be the priciest options. However! With a prescription, you can potentially get FC2 for free.
Do you like a very thin condom with a barely-there feel? Polyurethane condoms are your best bet, as they're thinner than polyisoprene condoms and may enhance sensitivity. And for a *very* realistic feel, lambskin condoms can offer an even more intimate experience than polyurethane condoms, as they transfer heat very, very feel. The downside to both polyurethane and lambskin condoms: They don't stretch nearly as well as polyisoprene condoms, so they may not give you the same security.
While all non-latex condoms offer similar levels of pregnancy prevention as latex condoms, they won't all give you the same protection against STIs. Due to the porous material, lambskin condoms do not provide a substantial barrier against diseases, so if you're worried about transmission, then you probably wanna stick with polyisoprene or polyurethane condoms.
Corinne Sullivan is an Editor at Cosmopolitan, where she covers a variety of beats, including lifestyle, entertainment, relationships, shopping, and more. She can tell you everything you need to know about the love lives of A-listers, the coziest bedsheets, and the sex toys actually worth your $$$. She is also the author of the 2018 novel Indecent. Follow her on Instagram for cute pics of her pup and bébé.
Hannah writes about health, sex, and relationships for Cosmopolitan, and you can follow her on Twitter and Instagram. Her work can also be found in the Cut, Jezebel, and Texas Monthly.
I'm a Sex and Relationships Editor for Cosmo's Snapchat Discover, which you should definitely subscribe to :).
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