Looking for an alternative to chemical-laden condoms out there? Call us biased, but we believe the more natural the better when it comes to anything that's going anywhere near your private parts. Whether you're looking for a change from hormonal contraception or changing brands, here's why you should switch to natural condoms.
 

What are natural condoms?

Simply put, natural condoms are free from all those unnecessary chemicals that traditional condoms are packed with. Think of them as the "clean beauty" equivalent for your sex life – just the essentials, nothing extra that might cause irritation or discomfort.

Why are natural condoms better for you?

Real talk: we’re all pretty sensitive down there. Vaginas have their own ecosystem and we need to ensure that natural balance is protected and nurtured, avoiding unnecessary products, services and ‘treatments’. That means no douching, no vagina deodorant (they exist sadly) and switching to natural condoms and organic condoms. Designed without any added chemicals that can put your natural balance at risk, these can help you maintain your natural flora without getting in the way of the fun. 

What are HANX condoms made from?

Back when we first had the idea for HANX, we knew before we even started traipsing around latex factories that we needed to find a manufacturer who shared our vision for sensitive condoms. Easier said than done, we found, as the condom industry really hadn't changed that much over the years. When we created HANX, our Co-Founder Dr. Sarah Welsh (yep, an actual gynaecology doctor) kept seeing patients with irritation and soreness after sex in her NHS clinics. The culprit? All those harsh chemicals in standard condoms. 

With the help of 5,000 women who shared all about their ideal contraception, we developed our dreamy, natural condom that works with your body, not against it. We believe in total transparency (unlike those other mysterious condom wrappers that don't even list their ingredients). HANX condoms contain:

• Natural latex (sustainably sourced)
• Silicone oil
• Magnesium
• Kaeflo/Absorbo
• Silicone LE

And that's pretty much it! We use the absolute minimum amount of processing chemicals needed to ensure they're safe and effective. Our condoms are also vulcanized using sulphur, zinc oxide, accelerators and soap – but only in the exact amounts needed for safety, and with Dr Sarah's gynae expert sign-off.

Our condoms are also free from parabens, synthetic colorants and fragrances. In fact, our condoms made Marie Claire’s ‘15 best condoms to *add to basket*, with journalist Ally Head stating, “if you ever suffer from UTI's after sex, you'll want to try HANX condoms.”

Can vegans use HANX condoms?

We know our plant-based friends are used to scanning ingredients list on skincare, sauces and clothing labels - but not everyone even thinks to check if their condoms are vegan. Historically, condoms were usually made from lamb intestine and while this is increasingly less common (and popular), there are still some brands out there who manufacture condoms made from lambskin. For those looking for condoms without animal by-products, keep your eye out for an ingredient called casein on ingredients lists. It's a protein derived from animals and is used to make condoms smooth.

We reckon the only animal in the bedroom should be you, so we manufacture HANX condoms without any casein, and instead use a plant extract for a smooth finish.

Fans of Lubricant should also scan bottles for beeswax or lactoperoxidase: an enzyme derived from dairy - both are definitely not vegan. We're proud that both our Lubricant and Condoms are officially certified by The Vegan Society. 

Can you find natural condoms without spermicide?

If you find that your delicate vaginal tissue is particularly irritated by spermicide, you can find natural condoms and lubricant without this tricky ingredient. Designed to stop sperm reaching an egg during sex, spermicides can really irritate your vagina and make it easier for germs to enter the body, putting you at greater risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. Dr Sarah ensured that we designed our condoms without these harsh spermicides to keep your vagina in good health. 

Which other ingredients should I avoid in condoms?

Ever experienced that burning sensation after getting down and dirty? Or found yourself with yet another yeast infection? Your johnnies might be the unexpected villain in this story.

Traditional condoms often contain:

• Glycerin is a very popular lubricant added to condoms that when left in the vagina can transform into sugar, which feeds yeast. Legally, condom brands don’t have to state the use of glucose on their packaging or ingredients list, so if you’re experiencing frequent yeast infections and UTIs, it's possible that this could be the cause. Listen to your body and try switching to natural condoms and lubricant.
• Nitrosamine can trigger tumour growth - although research hasn’t yet found that it can cause cancer. The use of Nitrosamine has even attracted the attention of the WHO (World Health Organisation) who have previously requested that condom brands consider removing this potentially harmful ingredient from their manufacturing process, as it’s actually an unnecessary element.
• Benzocaine is a local anaesthetic. It’s added to condoms to make people with penises last longer as it minimises sensitivity down there. It is also an endocrine disruptor, meaning it messes with the hormone messaging system that regulates some bodily functions like sleep and more relevantly, your sex drive. Unfortunately, the more you’re exposed to this ingredient, the greater the impact on your hormones.
• Spermicides like Nonoxynol. Designed to kill sperm and block the cervix, Nonoxynol also damages healthy cells along the vaginal wall making you more susceptible to STIs, HIV and UTIs as a result.
   

Can I use natural condoms and lubricant together?

Yes, you can - but make sure you're using the right pairing as certain lubricants can break down latex, leaving you at risk of STIs and/or pregnancy. There's no greater pleasure than johnnies and lube together, so we've created a guide to getting it on with condoms and lubricant. Read more.

Where can I buy HANX natural condoms?

Ready to make the switch? You can find HANX at most major UK retailers including Boots, Tesco, Sainsbury's, and WHSmith travel stores. Find your nearest stockist here or shop online for discreet delivery right to your door.

Want more?

• Find out more about HANX natural condoms and lubricant here and bone up our ultimate guide to vegan condoms now.
• Get our ultimate guide to vegan sex and dating.
• Discover which nasties to avoid in mainstream condoms.