The SKYN brand: who’s behind the latex-free condoms
Behind the SKYN brand is LifeStyles Healthcare, a company with Australian roots.
LifeStyles dates back to 1905; it has owned the SKYN range since 2017, following the acquisition of Ansell’s condom business. The SKYN range itself was launched in 2009 as the first clinically approved polyisoprene condom; it is manufactured in Thailand.
SKYNFEEL — polyisoprene instead of latex
The main feature of Skyn is the material. It is not latex, but a synthetic elastomer with the brand name SKYNFEEL.
SKYNFEEL is polyisoprene, a synthetic alternative to natural rubber that is free from allergenic proteins, which is why SKYN is suitable for people with a latex allergy. Barrier protection is on a par with high-quality latex models; every batch undergoes electronic leak testing.
| Parameter | Latex | SKYNFEEL polyisoprene |
|---|---|---|
| Odour | Rubbery | Virtually none |
| Texture | Dense | Soft, elastic |
| Allergenicity | Possible for rubber proteins | Hypoallergenic |
| Heat transfer | Average | High |
On some third-party websites, Skyn material is mistakenly referred to as polyurethane — these are chemically distinct materials. The correct name is polyisoprene (brand name SKYNFEEL).
The entire latex-free section of the catalogue is organised into a selection of polyisoprene condoms from various brands.
6 SKYN ranges in our catalogue
- SKYN Elite — the thinnest, with a thickness of around 0.050 mm (15–20% thinner than the classic Original). Based on our sales figures, this is the category leader. For maximum sensitivity without latex.
- SKYN Original — the second best-selling range. Thickness 0.065–0.075 mm, width 53 mm, smooth and odourless. The brand’s entry-level option.
- SKYN Intense Feel — a textured surface for extra stimulation, up to 0.080 mm thick including the texture.
- SKYN Large — an enlarged size for when the standard 53 mm width is too small.
- SKYN Extra Lubricated — with extra lubricant on the surface for greater comfort.
- SKYN Cocktail Club — flavoured (cherry, piña colada and other flavours), an excellent choice for oral sex whilst maintaining full barrier protection during traditional intercourse.
Packs are available in quantities ranging from 3 to 60 pieces; the formats vary depending on the range. We periodically stock the Close Feel range and the Selection and 5 Senses+ sets to meet demand — if you’re interested in a selection of different types, please contact our manager.
The best-sellers in this category are the thinnest latex-free condoms made from polyisoprene.
View SKYN EliteHow we work with the SKYN brand
SKYN was added to our catalogue in 2020 — within six years, we’ve established a stable range comprising six lines simultaneously.
Important From the ownerHow to choose SKYN for your specific needs
Once you’ve decided you need latex-free products, all that remains is to choose the range that suits your specific needs.
| Task | Skyn range |
|---|---|
| Basic latex-free protection | Original |
| Maximum sensitivity | Elite |
| Extra stimulation | Intense Feel |
| Standard small size | Large |
| Dryness, need comfort | Extra Lubricated |
| Oral sex | Coctail Club |
A typical beginner’s journey into latex-free condoms: Original → Elite (for thinness) or Intense Feel (for texture). Large and Extra Lubricated are chosen straight away for a specific purpose.
SKYN Original — the brand’s classic
FAQ
Our catalogue features both brands: Durex caters for general mass-market demand, whilst SKYN is designed for those with allergies and those who appreciate the most natural feel possible.