Beyond the standard categories (size, material, texture, flavor) there are condoms with specialty features: glow-in-the-dark, warming or tingling lubricant, colored, and spermicidal. Some are practical (spermicidal adds a backup contraceptive layer), some are novelty (glow-in-the-dark adds visual interest), and some are mixed (warming lube can enhance pleasure or irritate, depending on the user). This guide explains how each category works, what the latest guidance is, and which products are worth trying.

Glow-in-the-Dark Condoms

Glow-in-the-dark condoms have a non-toxic phosphorescent coating that charges under light and glows in the dark for a short period (usually 30 seconds to a few minutes). The glow is on the outside only and does not affect the latex's barrier function. They are a novelty product, often used for parties, bachelorette gifts, or just for fun.

How they work

The condom is exposed to light (typically about 30 seconds under a bright lamp) before use. The phosphorescent particles absorb light and re-emit it slowly as a glow.

What to know

• FDA-approved as standard latex condoms; the glow coating does not affect strength or leakage.
• Glow lasts a few minutes after charging, not the entire act.
• Coating is food-grade and skin-safe.
• Best for fun or novelty, not as an everyday product.

Best option

Night Light Glow-in-the-Dark. Comes pre-charged for first use and includes a small charging guide. The ONE Mixed Pleasures Variety Pack variety pack also includes glow condoms among other styles.

Warming and Tingling Condoms

Warming condoms use a lubricant that creates a mild warming sensation on contact, usually through ingredients like glycerin combined with menthol. Tingling condoms use stronger menthol or peppermint to create a cooling-tingling effect. The sensations are real and can enhance pleasure for some users. They can also irritate sensitive tissue for others.

How they work

The warming or tingling is in the lubricant on the outside of the condom. The wearer typically does not feel much because the lubricant is on the outside. The receiving partner feels the effect most.

What to know

• Test a small skin area (back of hand, forearm) first to check for sensitivity.
• Warming and tingling formulas can cause burning or irritation in sensitive users, especially on vaginal or anal tissue.
• Avoid if your partner has had any history of vulvar or vaginal irritation.
• Effects usually fade after 10 to 20 minutes.

Examples include the Durex Performax Intense (warming) and Trojan Fire and Ice (warming-and-cooling combination). These are not currently in our active inventory.

Colored Condoms

Colored condoms are standard latex condoms with FDA-approved colorants added. They are a novelty product, often used for distribution, parties, or visual interest. The color does not affect the condom's safety or function.

What to know

• Same protection as standard condoms.
• Color is uniform across the condom.
• Often sold non-lubricated in bulk for distribution; useful for events.

Best option

For bulk distribution, Trustex Assorted Colors Bulk Case of 1,000. For smaller quantities, LifeStyles Assorted Colors 40-piece.

Spermicidal Condoms

Spermicidal condoms have nonoxynol-9 (N-9), a spermicidal chemical, applied to the lubricant on the outside of the condom. The idea is to add a chemical backup if sperm escape the barrier (for example, from a small leak or slip). Spermicidal condoms have a more complicated current status than they used to.

The N-9 controversy

Older guidance considered spermicidal condoms a safer option than non-spermicidal because of the additional pregnancy backup. Current guidance has moved away from this. Several issues with N-9:

• Tissue irritation: N-9 can irritate vaginal, rectal, and penile tissue, especially with frequent use.
• Increased STI risk in some studies: tissue irritation from N-9 may increase the risk of HIV transmission by creating micro-tears that pathogens can cross. The CDC and WHO both advise against N-9 for HIV-risk individuals.
• No additional pregnancy protection in real-world data: studies have not shown spermicidal condoms to be meaningfully more effective at preventing pregnancy than non-spermicidal condoms when both are used correctly.
• Shorter shelf life: spermicidal condoms expire about a year sooner than non-spermicidal of the same material.

Current recommendation

For most users, spermicidal condoms are not recommended over standard lubricated condoms. The CDC's current guidance is to avoid N-9 if either partner is at risk for HIV. For added pregnancy protection, pairing standard condoms with a separate birth control method (pill, IUD, implant) is more effective than relying on N-9.

If you still want one

For users who specifically want a spermicidal condom for personal reasons, options include Trojan Stimulations Ultra Ribbed with Spermicide, Trojan Ultra Thin Armor with Spermicide, Trojan Her Pleasure Sensations with Spermicide, and Trojan ENZ with Spermicide 3-pack. Use awareness about N-9 in mind.

Combining Specialty Features

Some products combine specialty features with size or texture. Trojan Her Pleasure with Spermicide combines texture, lubrication for the receiving partner, and N-9. Trojan Ultra Thin Armor with Spermicide combines thin latex with N-9. Decide on the spermicide question first, then layer the other features.

Frequently Asked Questions

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