Latex-Free Condoms in Ireland

What are latex-free condoms?

They are condoms made from alternative materials that contain no latex, so they don't cause the allergic reactions latex can. They also transmit body heat better. You use them just like any other condom and, when put on correctly, they reduce the risk of pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. If you just want a thin condom and latex isn't a problem for you, take a look at our sensitive condoms too.

A review (Jiménez-Carrillo et al., 2022, Rev Alerg Mex) notes that, for latex allergy, the current approach is still to avoid contact. That is what these condoms are for. Brands such as Durex Real Feel and SKYN lead this segment, with models that rival conventional latex ones for sensitivity.

Types of latex-free condoms: materials compared

Within each material you'll find ultra-thin, extra-lubricated, ribbed or dotted, large-size and multi-pack options. There are also internal condoms, which are worn inside the vagina, and an AT-10 barrier for oral sex.

• Polyisoprene (SKYN): the closest to latex in stretch and feel, and it has no smell. It can't be used with oil-based lubricants. It is the most recommended direct substitute for latex.
• Polyurethane (Durex Real Feel, Sagami): thinner than latex, it transmits more heat and feels natural. It is compatible with oil-based lubricants. It stretches less than latex, so you need to get the size right.
• AT-10 (Pasante Unique): a synthetic resin, ultra-thin, sold in single-dose format.
• Internal condoms: available from Uniq and Pasante. They are worn inside the vagina instead of on the penis, and the person wearing them controls the protection.

What the studies say

A Cochrane meta-analysis (Gallo et al., 2006, Cochrane Database Syst Rev) found more clinical breakage with non-latex condoms than with latex ones. Even so, it concludes that they remain an acceptable alternative for people with an allergy.

In a trial with 901 couples (Steiner et al., 2003, Obstet Gynecol), a polyurethane condom was not shown to be as effective as a latex one at preventing pregnancy: at six months, the pregnancy rate was 9.0% versus 5.4%.

A more recent trial with 300 couples (Potter et al., 2024, Reprod Health) saw more failures, including breakage and slippage, with the ultra-thin polyurethane condoms than with the latex control, although all had low failure rates. To lower the risk, get the size right, put the condom on correctly from the start and use a compatible lubricant.

Safety and lubricant

Before you buy, check the product page to see what each model is made of. “Latex-free” doesn't tell you which lubricant it takes. With polyisoprene, use water-based lubricant or silicone-based lubricant, never oil. With polyurethane, oil won't damage it. Also check the expiry date and the certification mark on the packaging. If the area itches or gets irritated even with a latex-free condom, the cause may be the lubricant on the condom or the one you use. Try another of our lubricants and, if it keeps happening, talk to your doctor.

How to choose

• Material: polyisoprene if you want the feel closest to latex, polyurethane if you want the thinnest option, AT-10 if you're interested in that ultra-thin synthetic resin.
• Compatible lubricant: the product page states the material; with polyisoprene, use only water-based or silicone-based lubricant.
• Size: check the nominal width; polyurethane stretches less, and for a larger penis there are King Size models.
• Thickness and lubrication: choose between ultra-thin, regular or extra-lubricated according to the product page.
• Texture: there are smooth ones and ribbed or dotted ones, such as SKYN Intense Feel.
• Format: external condom, internal condom or oral sex barrier; and the number of condoms in the box.

Latex-Free Condoms: frequently asked questions

Are latex-free condoms as safe as latex ones?

They protect against pregnancy and STIs when used correctly, although studies don't find them entirely equal. They pass the same CE and ISO 4074 certification tests, but a Cochrane review found more breakage with non-latex condoms and one trial found more pregnancies with a polyurethane condom. That's why getting the size right matters, and bear in mind there is less variety of sizes and types than with latex.

How do I know if I need latex-free condoms?

If you notice itching, redness, swelling or irritation that doesn't go away after using latex condoms, you could have a latex sensitivity. Try SKYN Original, which is polyisoprene: if the symptoms go away, latex was the problem. An allergist can confirm it with a skin test.

Which condoms are not made of latex?

Those made of polyisoprene, polyurethane and AT-10, such as SKYN, Durex Real Feel or the Uniq and Pasante ranges. You'll find the material on each product page.

What are the pros and cons of latex-free condoms?

The pros are that they don't cause the allergic reaction latex can, they transmit heat better and some are compatible with oil-based lubricant. The cons: there are fewer sizes and types, polyurethane stretches less, and some studies have seen more breakage with non-latex condoms and more pregnancies with a polyurethane one.

Are latex-free condoms suitable if you're allergic to latex?

Yes, that's what they are designed for. If you're allergic, check that the packaging says “latex-free” and also avoid other latex products during sex, such as gloves or some toys.

Can I use oil-based lubricant with a latex-free condom?

It depends on the material. With polyurethane, yes. With polyisoprene, such as SKYN, no: use water-based or silicone-based lubricant.

Do latex-free condoms smell of rubber?

Polyisoprene ones don't, as they have no smell. If smell matters to you, check the material on the product page.

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