Delay & Desensitizing Products

What are delay and desensitizing products?

These are topical sprays, serums, gels, creams, wipes and lubricants that contain a mild numbing ingredient, most often benzocaine or lidocaine, or a plant-based alternative sold as a natural formula. Applied to the skin a few minutes before sex, they dull sensation slightly so that stimulation builds more slowly. Products for the penis are usually called delay sprays or delay serums. Desensitizing anal lubricants and gels are made to ease the first few minutes of anal play, and desensitizing oral sprays are flavored to relax the back of the throat. They are comfort products that work on the surface of the skin for a limited time.

Types of delay and desensitizing products

Delay sprays and serums

The most common format. A spray or pump serum from Skins, Powerect, Orgie, Dynamo Delay, Stallion or Rock Solid is applied to the head and shaft of the penis, left to absorb, and the excess wiped away. Some lines offer both benzocaine and natural versions.

Delay gels and creams

Gels and creams such as Bathmate Control, On Bold for Him and Stallion Delay Creme are thicker and stay where they are put. They suit people who find sprays hard to aim.

Delay wipes

Dynamo Delay wipes are single-use sachets that are discreet and travel-friendly. Each carries a measured dose.

Anal desensitizing lubricants and gels

Anal-Ese, Passion, Rear Entry, B-Luvd and Nasstoys Anal Blue combine a lubricant base with a numbing ingredient to make anal play more comfortable. Several come in cherry or strawberry flavors, and some are water-based so they can be used with silicone toys.

Oral desensitizing sprays

Blown Away and Tom of Finland make flavored throat sprays, in options like kiwi strawberry and chocolate mint, intended to relax the gag reflex during oral sex.

How to choose delay and desensitizing products

Match the format to how you plan to use it, then think about strength.

• Purpose: penis delay products, anal lubricants and oral sprays are formulated differently, so buy the one made for the job.
• Active ingredient: benzocaine and lidocaine formulas are the strongest; natural or herbal versions are gentler and a sensible starting point.
• Format: sprays are quick, gels and creams are easy to control, wipes are the most discreet for travel.
• Flavor: if a product will come into contact with a partner's mouth, choose a flavored one made for that purpose rather than an unflavored penis spray.
• Partner transfer: think about whether excess product could numb a partner, and plan to wipe off or wash before contact.

How to use and care for delay and desensitizing products

Patch test on your forearm and wait a day. Apply the smallest recommended amount, give it the time stated on the label to absorb, and wipe away anything left on the surface. Numbing can mask discomfort, so with anal products go slower than you normally would and stop straight away if anything hurts. Pair anal desensitizers with one of our anal toys only once you are comfortable, and keep a plain water-based lubricant nearby for extra glide.

• Check the label for condom compatibility before use.
• Keep products away from eyes and broken skin, and never apply inside the body unless the label says so.
• Store at room temperature with the cap closed and discard anything past its expiry date.
• Clean any toys used alongside these products with a toy cleaner afterwards.

Delay products for beginners, couples and anal play

If you are trying delay products for the first time, a natural serum or a single wipe is the gentlest introduction, and our beginners collection has other low-pressure options. Couples often pair a delay spray with a toy from our couples range. For anal play, a desensitizing lubricant should supplement patience and relaxation, not replace them. More products for him are gathered in male sex toys.