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There are many sexual performance products on the market. However, the industry is saddled with transparency issues and false promises, making it tough to separate the quality products from one that aren’t safe to use.
Promescent is a company that makes sexual health products. While the company overall has some transparency issues — especially when it comes to their line of oral supplements, which we don’t recommend — their Delay Spray should be safe when used as directed.
This article takes a closer look at the company and its spray designed to delay ejaculation.
Pros
- Effective ingredients. The spray contains lidocaine, which should be effective for delaying ejaculation.
- Fairly safe. The active ingredient in the spray is unlikely to cause unpleasant side effects in most people.
- No prescription required. There’s no need to go to a doctor to get a prescription for this spray, since it’s available over-the-counter (OTC).
- Easy to apply. The product comes in a spray, making it easier to apply than a gel or cream.
Cons
- Takes time to work. You have to apply it before having sex and wait for it to absorb. This isn’t always convenient and can kill the mood.
- Difficult to apply to a flaccid penis. If the penis isn’t erect, using the spray can be difficult.
- Potential for allergic reactions. Some people may be allergic to the main active ingredient.
- Risk to sperm viability. The spray might not be suitable for couples trying to get pregnant. Some research suggests that the spray may have adverse effects on sperm, making it difficult to conceive.
- Only 20 sprays per bottle. A single bottle won’t last very long, considering the recommended dose is at least three sprays.
Promescent Delay Spray is a sprayable, lidocaine-based product designed to help delay ejaculation.
Some research suggests that lidocaine, the main active ingredient of this spray, effectively prevents premature ejaculation (PE).
A randomized, single-blind placebo-controlled
It’s important to point out that the participants in the study, 150 in total, experienced PE but otherwise had typical erections.
Lidocaine and lidocaine-containing products are not designed to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). With ED, a person cannot get or maintain an erection.
By producing a numbing sensation in sensitive parts of the penis, the spray reduces the likelihood of experiencing PE. If there’s less feeling in the penis, a person can last longer during sex.
The company recommends applying the spray to the shaft and head of the penis 10 minutes before sex. The recommended dosage is at least three sprays, but you shouldn’t exceed 10 sprays.
After sex, you should wash off the spray.
Topically applied lidocaine is generally safe to use. But there are some potential risks involved in using a spray like Promescent Delay.
Allergic reactions
Some people may be sensitive or allergic to certain ingredients. If you or your partner has an allergy to lidocaine, don’t use Promescent Delay Spray.
Similarly, inactive ingredients can also cause irritation. For example, the spray contains fragrance, which may cause a reaction in some people.
Effects on sperm
There’s some evidence that lidocaine may be toxic to sperm.
A 2018 lab study found that Promescent significantly reduced sperm motility and viability compared to control samples. However, more research is needed to confirm these results.
That said, the spray’s label still recommends not using the spray if you or your partner is or could be pregnant.
Other warnings
Other warnings include:
- Talk with your doctor before using the spray if you have liver problems.
- Don’t use the spray on broken or sensitive skin.
- Stop using the spray if irritation or a rash develops.
If the spray doesn’t seem to work, talk with your doctor.
Additionally, be careful with your application. Applying the product correctly ensures that it gets fully absorbed and won’t produce a numbing effect for your partner.
Some users say that Promescent Delay Spray works.
Additionally, several studies have looked at the effectiveness of lidocaine for delaying ejaculation. The results indicate that a lidocaine-based spray is an effective treatment for PE.
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Overall, Promescent’s reputation is fairly positive. However, they don’t have a rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Currently, Promescent’s parent company, Absorption Pharmaceuticals, LLC, has a single customer review on the BBB website and no complaints.
The company claims the products are made in a cGMP-compliant facility, but there’s no third-party certification to confirm this.
Customer reviews seem to be mostly positive. Reviewers on third-party sites, like Amazon, say that the spray is fast-acting, effective, and travel-friendly.
A handful of reviewers complain about the overwhelming scent. One reviewer also notes that, even when waiting the full 10 minutes before having sex, the spray also numbed his partner.
A few reviewers also say that the spray has no effect. Additionally, a few reviewers say they experienced an allergic reaction to the product.
You can buy Promescent Delay Spray online directly from the company or through retailers, like Amazon, Target, and Walmart.
If you buy directly from Promescent, shipping is free on orders over $10 in the United States.
Products arrive in discreet, non-branded packaging to protect your privacy. Shipment takes between 1 and 5 days, depending on where you’re located in the United States. International shipments may take longer to arrive.
Promescent also offers a 60-day money-back guarantee on all products. However, international orders aren’t eligible. After 60 days, you can’t get a refund, but you can exchange a product if it’s defective.
Promescent also offers a range of other sex-related products, including:
- lubricants
- adult toys
- supplements
- massage oils
- condoms
- female arousal gel
If you buy multiple Promescent products, you can choose to bundle and save.
Note: We don’t recommend buying supplements that don’t feature a list of ingredients on the label.
Alternative products for PE
If you’re not sure if Promescent is right for you, here are a couple other options to consider:
- Hims Delay Spray. This spray also contains lidocaine.
- Roman Swipes. The active ingredient in these single-use wipes is benzocaine.
How many sprays of Promescent Delay Spray should you apply?
Promescent recommends using at least three sprays. Some people may need additional doses to experience adequate numbing effects.
Promescent recommends not exceeding 10 sprays at a time.
How long does Promescent Delay Spray last?
According to Promescent, the Delay Spray may last up to an hour, depending on how much you apply.
Does Promescent Delay Spray numb your partner?
According to Promescent, the spray isn’t supposed to numb your partner, as long as you use it as directed.
While Promescent Delay Spray seems to be an effective product for preventing PE, we’re wary about recommending a minimally transparent company as a whole.
Still, studies suggest that lidocaine-based sprays can help delay ejaculation.
Before trying any numbing product, read the ingredient list and perform a patch test on your skin before applying it to the sensitive genital area.
Don’t use this type of product if you have ultra-sensitive skin or allergies to lidocaine or any listed non-active ingredients.
When in doubt, talk with your doctor.
Steph Coelho is a freelance writer with chronic migraine who has a particular interest in health and wellness. When she’s not click-clacking away on her keyboard, she’s probably nose-deep in a good book.