Stimulating gels (sometimes called enhancement gels) are designed to heighten sensation and support arousal through warming, cooling, or buzzing effects. While the core idea is the same for everyone, the formulations differ depending on whether they're made for women or men.
For women, stimulating gels typically focus on the clitoris, promoting blood flow to support arousal. They can be especially helpful for those dealing with anorgasmia or vaginal and clitoral atrophy. Warming gels and warming lubricants can also be used internally to encourage blood flow and boost natural lubrication. The gels in our women's category are formulated without L-arginine, which many women find irritating — instead, they rely on ingredients like cinnamon, menthol, peppermint, and capsicum. Always check the ingredient list to make sure you aren't sensitive to anything in the formula. A safety note: stimulating gels and warming lubricants aren't recommended if you have an infection or any sore vaginal tissue, as they can intensify discomfort.
For men, products in this category fall into two groups. Stimulating gels and libido enhancers share some ingredients with the women's formulas but often include natural testosterone-supporting additions like evening primrose oil. Desensitizers and delay gels, on the other hand, are designed for men experiencing premature ejaculation or those wanting to sustain an erection longer. These typically contain benzocaine or lidocaine and are applied before intercourse, with little to no transfer to a partner.
