What "latex-free" actually means
Most condoms are made from natural rubber latex. Latex-free, or non-latex, condoms use a synthetic material instead. The latex-free condoms Johni sells are all polyisoprene — the SKYN range.
Polyisoprene is a lab-made version of natural rubber. It behaves like latex — soft and stretchy — but is made without the natural rubber proteins that trigger most latex allergy reactions. In short, you get a latex-like feel without the latex.
Do latex-free condoms protect as well?
Yes, when used correctly. Polyisoprene condoms reduce the risk of pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections about as effectively as latex. They have to meet the same safety standard as any other condom — the international standard ISO 4074 — and carry the same UKCA or CE marking, so they are tested the same way.
As with any condom, no method is completely effective, and correct use matters more than the material.
The one practical difference is lubricant. Like latex, polyisoprene is damaged by oil-based lubricants. Avoid anything oil-based — petroleum jelly, baby oil, lotions, mineral or vegetable oil. Use a water-based or silicone-based lubricant instead. If in doubt, check the label says it is suitable for use with condoms.
A note on latex allergy
A latex allergy can develop from repeated exposure, and reactions range from itching and redness to something more serious. Polyisoprene is made without the proteins behind most of those reactions, which is why it is the usual choice for a latex allergy or sensitivity.
A small number of people who react to latex may still react to synthetic condoms. If you have a diagnosed allergy, check the product details and speak to a pharmacist or doctor.
One thing to know: "lambskin" or natural-membrane condoms are also latex-free, but they are porous and do not reliably protect against STIs. Polyisoprene does. Johni does not sell lambskin — the latex-free range here is all polyisoprene, which protects against both pregnancy and STIs.
The latex-free range Johni sells
All three are polyisoprene — latex-free — and straight-walled. Tap a product for the full specification.
| Condom | Nominal width | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| SKYN Original | 53 mm | Standard width, the classic polyisoprene feel |
| SKYN Elite | 53 mm | Standard width, thinner than Original |
| SKYN Large | 56 mm | Roomier width |
Every EXS line, by contrast, is natural rubber latex. If you react to latex, the SKYN range is the one to choose.
Which latex-free condom is right for you?
It mostly comes down to width and how thin you want it. SKYN Original and SKYN Elite are both a standard 53 mm, with Elite the thinner of the two; SKYN Large is a roomier 56 mm. If you are not sure which width fits, the condom size guide walks through the signs. If thinness is what you are after, see thin condoms, explained.
Common questions
Are latex-free condoms as safe as latex ones?
Yes, when used correctly. Polyisoprene condoms meet the same safety standard (ISO 4074) and carry the same UKCA or CE marking as latex condoms, and protect against pregnancy and STIs about as effectively. No method is completely effective.
What lubricant can I use with latex-free condoms?
Water-based or silicone-based. Do not use oil-based lubricants — petroleum jelly, baby oil, lotions, mineral or vegetable oil — as oil damages polyisoprene, the same way it damages latex.
Which Johni condoms are latex-free?
SKYN Original, SKYN Elite and SKYN Large — all made from polyisoprene. Every EXS line is natural rubber latex.
Is polyisoprene suitable for a latex allergy?
It is made without the natural rubber proteins behind most latex allergy reactions, which is why it is the common choice. A small number of people sensitive to latex may still react to synthetic condoms, so if you have a diagnosed allergy, check the product details and speak to a professional.
What is the difference between SKYN Original and SKYN Elite?
Both are polyisoprene and a standard 53 mm width. SKYN Elite is the thinner of the two. Original is the classic; Elite is for a thinner feel.
More guides
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