15 Best Arousal Gels of 2024 for Better, Wetter Sex
Upgraded orgasms, right this way!!
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If you have a vulva, then you know that arousal isn't always an instantaneous thing. From changes in estrogen levels to lackluster foreplay, there are TONS of explanations for vaginal dryness—and while arousal gel can't magically produce stimulation, it can def help to enhance it. The best sex gels—or creams or oils or lubes—work to increase oxygen delivery and blood flow to the genitals, which helps to increase sensitivity and vaginal secretions. And while you may think female stimulation products sound too good to be true, we promise they're not.
As board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist Dr. Tamika K. Cross tells Cosmo, arousal gels typically work to enhance sensation, not create it from scratch. "These products amplify what you're already feeling," she says. "So, when you're getting aroused or having an orgasm, it's just enhancing that already natural, sensitive sensation." Amazing, right?? To help ya get started, we've rounded up the best sex gels for vagina owners on the market—and here's a sneak peek at our faves.
Our top picks for the best arousal gels of 2024:
Without further ado, here are the best female stimulation products that'll have you feeling wet 'n' wild faster than you can say "climax."
Pros
- Stimulates waves of warm and cool sensations
- Easy to remove and sensitive skin approved
Cons
- Doesn't last as long as some had hoped
- Only available in a v smol bottle
Made specifically with clitorises in mind, this buzzy balm stimulates both cooling *and* warming sensations with the help of all-natural ingredients like maca, gingko, and peppermint. Testers <3 the shivery, satisfying tingle provided by this one—and because it is water-based, removal is a breeze.
- Type: Water-based
- Size: 0.5 fl oz
- Key ingredients: Ginkgo, maca, damiana, peppermint, cinnamon
- Condom-safe? Compatible with latex or polyisoprene condoms, but not polyurethane condoms
THE REVIEW: According to one customer, "I was unsure what Tingle to Mingle would feel like—I hoped it wouldn’t feel like Icy Hot or something. But let me tell you, it is a-m-a-z-i-n-g. It makes you so much more sensitive and lovely down there. Try it. You’ll love it."
Pros
- A little goes a long way, per testers
- Water-based, so easy to remove if needed
Cons
- Effect is a lil too subtle for some
- Not as long-lasting as other options
Wanna awaken your vulva with a warm tingle? This gentle water-based serum is here to do the job, bb. It's derived from peppermint, ginger, and cinnamon (which all work to increase blood flow and heighten awareness), and like all water-based formulas, you can quickly wipe it away if you decide the sensation isn't for you.
- Type: Water-based
- Size: 1 fl oz
- Key ingredients: Peppermint, ginger, cinnamon
- Condom-safe? Compatible with latex or polyisoprene condoms, but not polyurethane condoms
THE REVIEW: "This product is so fun and I just love it," one tester writes. "After applying only a little bit of the serum (as directed) and waiting for a minute, the results did not disappoint! Warm and cold tingling as expected, and even tastes sweet. This product is definitely a new staple in the bedroom for me!"
Pros
- Incredibly moisturizing
- Infused with aphrodisiacs for increasing arousal
Cons
- Not everyone loves the smell
- Can't be used with most condoms
To increase pleasure both before AND during intimate moments, you should give this clean, feel-good formula a try. It's made with coconut oil and passionflower seed oil to provide a nice, smooth glide, as well as cinnamon and natural aphrodisiacs (including damiana and nutmeg) to heighten sensitivity. Oh, and it's also got vitamin E to leave ya feeling moisturized, which is always a plus.
- Type: Oil-based
- Size: 0.9 fl oz
- Key ingredients: Damiana, nutmeg, cinnamon
- Condom-safe? Compatible with polyurethane condoms, but not latex or polyisoprene condoms
THE REVIEW: "Oh, this product feels so smooth and smells so good," one buyer writes. "Keeps you slick and reduces friction with longer-lasting sessions. I am also very sensitive, and I didn’t have any adverse effects—miracle! In addition, it kept my skin moisturized post-session."
Pros
- Provides both cooling and warming sensations
- Water-soluble for easy cleanup
Cons
- Menthol may irritate folks with sensitive skin
- Could be a bit longer-lasting
For something that goes on cool and warms up with action, reach for this aloe vera-based formula from Sliquid. This one includes both peppermint and menthol (which are natural vasodilators) for providing a satisfying tingle, and thanks to the aloe base, this one boasts natural anti-inflammatory properties as well.
- Type: Aloe-based
- Size: 1 fl oz
- Key ingredients: Peppermint, menthol
- Condom-safe? Compatible with latex or polyisoprene condoms, but not polyurethane condoms
THE REVIEW: "I love this product," one tester writes. "I’ve been using it for years. A little drop goes a long way. It’s worth every penny. The sensation is like magic. It smells great, and the cooling sensation is so unique. I’ll never stop using it as long as they make it."
Pros
- Long-lasting, thanks to silicone base
- Safe to use with any condom
Cons
- May irritate those with more sensitive skin
- Cool, tingling sensation isn't for everyone
This silicone-based formula from LOLA is a solid starter choice if you just want a lil something but don't want to risk being stuck with a sensation you're not into. Made with menthol, it provides a subtle tingling feeling with a sloooow build, and it doesn't smell or feel like Icy Hot, JIC you were wondering!
- Type: Silicone-based
- Size: 0.34 fl oz
- Key ingredient: Menthol
- Condom-safe? Compatible with latex, polyisoprene, and polyurethane condoms
THE REVIEW: "This product was great overall," reports one tester. "It wasn't too thick or too thin and lasted for me about half an hour. It started to get tingly in about five minutes...and I ended up not even needing or wanting to use a lubricant because this was enough to get me going and in the mood."
Pros
- Made with 100 percent natural ingredients
- Requires *just* a drop to get ya going
Cons
- A bit $$$ for the size
- Sensation can be unpleasant if you use too much, per reviewers
Yes, it's smol. But what's unique about this all-natural formula (which is made with an essential oil blend that includes sweet almond oil, rosemary oil, cinnamon, and vitamin E) is that you only need one drop to help awaken your nerve endings and make your bits buzz. Impressive!
- Type: Oil-based
- Size: 0.17 fl oz
- Key ingredient: Cinnamon
- Condom-safe? Compatible with polyurethane condoms, but not latex or polyisoprene condoms
THE REVIEW: "OMG, this stuff is amazing," one buyer raves. "I put a few drops where it says to put it and within a sec, I can really feel it working...I don't even have to get warmed up for it to work. It's ready LIKE NOW!!!"
Pros
- Ingredients work to soothe irritation
- Aphrodisiacs really do enhance sensation, according to reviews
Cons
- May require reapplication
- A few reviews say it tends to dry a little sticky
The star ingredient in this one: horny goat weed, which is a natural aphrodisiac that helps to boost your libido. This gentle formula also includes soothing aloe vera and chamomile to minimize vaginal irritation, as well as ginseng for enhancing arousal and hemp for promoting relaxation (without any psychoactive effects, ftr).
- Type: Aloe-based
- Size: 1 fl oz
- Key ingredients: Horny goat weed, ginseng
- Condom-safe? Compatible with latex or polyisoprene condoms, but not polyurethane condoms
THE REVIEW: "I absolutely love this product!" one reviewer writes. "It is the best addition in the bedroom to elevate my big Os. It smells amazing and leaves me tingling with pleasure all day. For a natural product, it stays slippery for very long. Highly recommend."
Pros
- Tingling sensation is fast-acting and long-lasting
- Doesn't leave a sticky residue, per reviewers
Cons
- Shouldn't be used by folks with herpes
- Not a great fit for those who prefer a warming sensation
Want a natural formula that doesn't skimp on effectiveness? Check out this option from Intimate Earth, which uses a combination of natural Japanese peppermint oil and arginine (which acts as a vasodilator to open blood vessels) to work its magic. And if this one's a lil *too* intense for ya, you can always check out the gentle version of this formula, which uses a lower concentration of peppermint oil.
- Type: Water- and aloe-based
- Size: 1 fl oz
- Key ingredients: Peppermint, arginine
- Condom-safe? Compatible with latex or polyisoprene condoms, but not polyurethane condoms
THE REVIEW: "Perfection," one review reads. "I wish I had more words to describe the awesomeness of this product, but the mere thought of this delightful tingly gel on my clit drains all the blood from my brain. So."
Pros
- Packed with adaptogens and aphrodisiacs for boosting pleasure
- Free from potential vulvar irritants
Cons
- Not compatible with any condoms
- Requires a few pumps to get going
Along with a slippy essential oil base, this one boasts tons of libido-boosting adaptogens (like maca, shatavari, and ashwagandha) and botanical aphrodisiacs (such as damiana) to stimulate your senses and heighten your pleasure. Oh, and the fact that it smells like vanilla and sandalwood doesn't hurt, either.
- Type: Oil-based
- Size: 1 fl oz
- Key ingredients: Maca, shatavari, ashwagandha, damiana
- Condom-safe? Not compatible with polyurethane, latex, or polyisoprene condoms
THE REVIEW: "I don't know how this magic stuff works, but it does!!" one tester writes. "It elevated the whole experience. More exciting foreplay and better climax, [and it] lasted a long time, too. Highly recommend."
Pros
- Absorbs quickly and provides immediate warming effect
- Coconut aroma is such a nice touch
Cons
- Contains arginine, so those with genital herpes should avoid
- Not the longest-lasting option, per reviewers
Listen, sometimes you want results, and you want 'em NOW. That's why Bijoux Indiscrets made this fast-absorbing sex balm, which—despite having "slow" in the name—really gets ya there in no time. The secret: It uses the warming agent Thermolat for a quick (yet gentle!) warming effect, as well as ginseng and arginine for increasing blood flow.
- Type: Water-based
- Size: 0.34 fl oz
- Key ingredients: Thermolat, arginine, ginseng
- Condom-safe? Compatible with latex or polyisoprene condoms, but not polyurethane condoms
THE REVIEW: "To say the clitoral balm provides a 'warming sensation in a matter of seconds' is no joke!" one tester writes. "It feels unmistakably warm, but not at all too much or unpleasant. I found it felt warm long enough that I was definitely turned on. Looking forward to trying other things with the new sensation."
Pros
- Infused with CBD to enhance arousal
- Relies on all-natural botanical aphrodisiacs
Cons
- Def pricier than others
- Take a few pumps and at least five minutes to take effect
When used topically, CBD promotes increased blood flow, which is what makes this arousal oil *extra* powerful. Along with CBD, this essential oil formula uses eight other organic botanical aphrodisiacs (including double-steeped kava root, cinnamon, and ginger) to give you bigger, better orgasms—and yes, testers swear it really is worth that $48 price tag.
- Type: Oil-based
- Size: 1 fl oz
- Key ingredients: CBD, kava, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, peppermint
- Condom-safe? Compatible with polyurethane condoms, but not latex or polyisoprene condoms
THE REVIEW: As one tester writes, "Oh. My. Gosh. Wow!! I literally am blown away. I am a squirter but have NEVER experienced such intense orgasms/wetness in my life. You can feel the warmth & tingles start even before you touch anything. A little goes a long way—worth every penny 1000%."
Pros
- Great for use in the shower
- Incredibly hydrating, thanks to moisturizing oils
Cons
- Not compatible with latex
- Effect is subtler than some would like
This peppermint-infused clitoral balm has a silky-smooth texture thanks to the coconut oil and hemp seed base, and it's packed with skin-loving emollients (like avocado and jojoba oils) for leaving you soothed and rejuvenated. And because it's oil-based, reviewers say this long-lasting formula is *ideal* for use in the shower.
- Type: Oil-based
- Size: 2 fl oz
- Key ingredient: Peppermint
- Condom-safe? Compatible with polyurethane condoms, but not latex or polyisoprene condoms
THE REVIEW: "The Bomb Balm helps heighten sensations and makes so sex much more enjoyable for couples," one tester notes. "It works wonderfully in wet environments, as it won't wash off with water. It will last a while, since a little goes a long way!"
Pros
- Powerfully tingly without feeling overwhelming
- Water-based for easy removal and cleanup
Cons
- More cooling than warming, which isn't for everyone
- Arginine may trigger outbreak for those with herpes
With hundreds of five-star reviews, it's pretty clear ppl can't get enough of this stimulating gel from Unbound, which is made with organic extracts, peppermint oil, damiana, arginine, and ornithine for bringing you ALL the tingly vibes. It's water-based, so it's water-soluble for easy cleanup, and though it's powerful, most testers note it doesn't feel too overwhelming.
- Type: Water-based
- Size: 1 fl oz
- Key ingredients: Peppermint, damiana, arginine, ornithine
- Condom-safe? Compatible with latex or polyisoprene condoms, but not polyurethane condoms
THE REVIEW: According to one review, "I have super-sensitive skin, and I can use this all over (clit, nipples, on dildos with lube, on my partner) with yummy effects but no irritation! It’s kind of warming and cooling and tingly simultaneously. Would recommend."
Pros
- Uses aloe and vitamin E to soothe skin
- Provides tons of slip without leaving any mess
Cons
- Gentle cooling is too subtle for some
- Sensation fades faster than some had expected
Want an arousal gel that lasts as long as a silicone-based formula but cleans up as easily as a water-based option? Ya gotta try this hybrid serum, which is both extra-slippy and mess-free. Peppermint oil is used in this one to increase vulvar stimulation and sensitivity, while vitamin E and aloe help to soothe and moisturize.
- Type: Water- and silicone-based
- Size: 1 fl oz
- Key ingredient: Peppermint
- Condom-safe? Compatible with latex or polyisoprene condoms, but not polyurethane condoms
THE REVIEW: "This stimulating serum has a lightweight lotion-like consistency and it's very easy to apply!" notes one reviewer. "The mint gives it a tingly feel, and you'll immediately feel your honeypot throbbing as the feeling intensifies! I've tried this product solo and with my partner, and both times [it] gave me the strongest 'O' ever."
Pros
- Works to penetrate deep and improve orgasms
- Lasts up to two hours
Cons
- Requires at least 15 minutes to take effect
- Pretty pricey for the quantity
If you experience vaginal dryness, this CBD serum is seriously a MUST. Developed by the lead experts behind Viagra and Cialis, this first-of-its-kind pleasure gel is formulated with liposomes, which means the CBD is enclosed in protective lil bubbles that can penetrate deeper into your vaginal and clitoral muscles. The result: more frequent and more intense orgasms for you. No wonder so many reviewers call it a game-changer!!
- Type: Water-based
- Size: 0.8 fl oz
- Key ingredients: CBD, liposomes
- Condom-safe? Compatible with latex or polyisoprene condoms, but not polyurethane condoms
THE REVIEW: One tester writes, "I have tried a few CBD lube products. I never found them to make much difference, at least not that I could notice. Vella, on the other hand, seems to increase sensation for me, making it easier and quicker to become aroused and to climax. I am surprised since other products make similar claims. I had little hope that this product would make a real difference but it DOES. I’m ordering more right now!"
How to choose the best arousal gel
So, how do sex gels work, you ask? According to Organic Loven founder Taylor Sparks, arousal gels help to open your blood vessels, which then increase oxygen delivery and blood flow to the genitals. "This increases sensitivity and vaginal secretions to intensify orgasms," she explains. Think wetter, more sensational climaxes that are much easier to achieve—love that for you.
But before you start pulling up a zillion tabs and adding random gels, balms, and serums to your carts, our experts suggest keeping a few things in mind:
Consider the ingredients
If you're looking to increase sensation, ingredients like cinnamon, menthol, gingko, peppermint, and CBD are *def* going to be your friend. Arginine is also a helpful ingredient for its vasodilating properties, though Sparks notes that people who have genital herpes might want to steer clear of topical serums that contain arginine, since they could trigger an outbreak.
Another good reason you'll wanna check that ingredient list: Formulas with oil (which is, unfortunately, a lotta sex gels) aren't compatible with most condoms since the oil can break down latex, as double board-certified gynecologist Dr. Monica Grover explains. Naturally, it all comes down to the type of sex you're having and what sensation you're looking for. Speak of which...
Find the right sensation for you
When shopping around, keep in mind what sensations you can expect from each ingredient. Sparks says peppermint, cinnamon, and arginine will give you a quicker bodily response than CBD, but CBD has a longer-lasting (and more intense) effect once it enters the bloodstream. As you might have guessed, peppermint will give you a more cooling effect while cinnamon feels warmer, so keep that in mind depending on your preferences.
Avoid anything that's not intended for sex
Important PSA: Definitely don’t try to substitute with a product not marketed as a sex or arousal gel, like Bengay or Icy Hot, Dr. Tamika K. Cross notes. You might think it's the same thing since that stuff is also "cooling," but it's a really, really bad idea. "Those products aren't meant to go on such sensitive skin or inside the body," Cross says, so unless you like weird infections and reactions, keep 'em away from your vagina, mmkay?
How to use arousal gel
Once you pick out a formula, board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist Dr. Brandye Wilson-Manigat recommends doing a test application on a less sensitive area, like your wrist or leg, to see what the reaction may be like before you use it on the sensitive skin of your genitals. And once you're ready to go below the belt, be sure to take things suuuuper slow. "Start with a small amount and wait at least 15 minutes to see the effects. If no changes are noted, apply a little more," she says. Also, keep in mind that—while some arousal gels can be used as lubricant—some are only intended for getting the party started and may require additional lube.
As for where the stuff actually goes, co-CEO and co-founder of Her Highness, Laura Eisman, suggests applying the arousal gel around the labia, clitoris, and inside the vagina to get the full effect (unless, ofc, the formula notes otherwise). She also adds that if you accidentally put too much on, wash it off with some warm water and a mild (preferably unscented) soap, and add a little coconut oil if it's available to help soothe your skin.
And no matter the ingredients in the product you choose, Eisman adds that the actual process of applying a product can also help with arousal. Squirt some product on yourself or put on a blindfold and let your partner go for it. "A sensual application in itself can be an act of foreplay," explains Eisman. "Get lost in the feeling and commit yourself fully to pleasure. Touching and penetration will be felt more intensely, and when you climax, you'll come long and strong." Whether this means you spend some time engaging in a lil self-care or you put your partner in charge, the act of simply getting the goods on your skin is M-A-J-O-R-L-Y erotic.
Meet the experts
- Tamika K. Cross, MD, FACOG, is a board-certified ob-gyn at Opulence Health and Wellness in Pearland, TX.
- Taylor Sparks is the founder of Organic Loven and author of An African-American Guide To Ethical Non-Monogamy.
- Brandye Wilson-Manigat, MD, is a board-certified ob-gyn based in South Pasadena, CA, as well as the author of My O My!: A Committed Woman's Guide to Getting the Great Sex She Deserves.
- Monica Grover, DO, MS, is a double board-certified gynecologist at VSPOT Medi Spa, a sexual health spa in New York, NY.
- Laura Eisman is the co-CEO and co-founder of Her Highness, a female-forward, cannabis-friendly sexual health products company based in New York, NY.
Why trust Cosmo?
Here at Cosmo, we have v high standards when it comes to sexual wellness recs. We've included a range of arousal gel options—including stimulating formulas as well as formulas enhanced with CBD—so you can find the best sensation for you. You can also be rest assured all these picks are all body-safe, free from artificial fragrances, and hiiighly rated by some very happy customers, since you (and your vulva) deserve nothing but the best.
Every one of our round-ups adheres to the 15 Percent Pledge and includes products for all budgets and bodies. And you better believe we read those product reviews (and test many of the brands IRL) so you don't have to do it yourself.
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.
Jill Hamilton is a contributor for Cosmopolitan.com and writes the blog In Bed With Married Women.
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