We say ‘NO’ to the following ingredients
NO Parabens
Parabens are synthetic preservatives that can be absorbed through your skin. They can mimic estrogen in your body, and may be linked to increased risk of breast cancer.
NO Grapefruit Seed extract (GSE or citrus seed extract)
Although derived from a natural source, GSE often contains parabens and should be avoided as it can be an irritant in low concentrations.
NO Glycerin or Glucose
These are sugars that can feed candida, which can proliferate and cause vaginal yeast (thrush) infections in women who are prone to them. They can also damage mucus membrane and skin cells by ‘osmolality’.
NO Glycols
Propylene glycol/propanediol may cause burning or tissue irritation. Glycols can also damage mucus membrane and skin cells by ‘osmolality’. One brand-name warming jelly has an osmolality more than 30 times the body’s own fluid, increased herpes transmission more than ninefold compared with rodents not administered lubricant (BMC Infect. Dis., DOI: 10.1186/1471-2334-10-331).
NO Silicone
These messy oils may have toxic side effects, and can coat your skin, affecting its normal functions and permeability. Other names include; dimethicone, highly polymerized methyl polysilozane, methyl polysiloxane, mirasil DM 20, and viscasil 5M.
NO Petroleum
Petroleum-based products, including paraffins and multipurpose lubricants like Vaseline petroleum jelly, may contain impurities linked to cancer and other health conditions. They can also coat your skin, impeding its normal functions and not allowing it to ‘breathe’.
NO Phenoxyethanol
Although it’s found in very low concentrations in some sexual lubricants, at high concentrations, phenoxyethanol can be harmful if absorbed through your skin, cause reproductive damage, and according to the FDA, depress the central nervous system in newborns, and adversely affect immune system.
NO Hormones
What might be OK for her might not be OK for him. Even some herbs can contain natural hormones.
NO Chlorhexidine
A disinfectant ingredient found in mouthwash and some multipurpose lubricants such as KY, Chlorhexidine can irritate sensitive tissues.
NO Nonoxynol-9
A detergent used in spermicidal lubricants because of its ability to punch holes in the cell membranes of sperm. However it actually increased the risk of HIV infection in the sex workers tested… (Lancet, DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(02)11079-8).
NO L-arginine
Used as a stimulant in some lubricants, it is converted in the body into nitric oxide. Nitric oxide causes blood vessels to open wider for improved blood flow. However, it can provoke allergic reactions in some users.
NO Menthol
Synthetic menthol as well as natural Peppermint Oil are used as stimulants in some lubricants. They can be irritating and drying to a woman’s genitals and damages mucus membranes.
NO Artificial Colours, Fragrances, or Preservatives
Artificial colourings, fragrances, and flavourings are known to be common causes of allergic reactions.
NO GMOs
Often unlabeled and untested, GMO have the potential to cause allergies and unknown effects long-term. Read our GMO Statement HERE
NO Artificial Sweeteners
Some brands include saccharine as a sweetener. Saccharin is made from coal/tar derivatives and ammonia.
NO Gluten
Gluten can cause allergic reactions for celiacs and people who are gluten/wheat sensitive.
NO Animal Products
Unsuitable for vegetarians and vegans. Using no animal products ensures no animal testing or cruelty.
NO Xanthan gum
Can be made using carbohydrates from corn, wheat, dairy, or soy – all potential sources of GMOs and allergies.