How to Choose the Best Clitoral Stimulation Cream & Gel

Focused attention to the clitoris is a key part of pleasure for anyone with a vulva, and for anyone who loves someone with a vulva. While the visible part of the clitoris looks a bit like a little bean at the top of the vulva, the full structure of the clitoris is actually below the surface and extends down to curve around the rim of the vaginal opening and even deeper into the pelvis (many researchers believe the G-spot is actually just an extension of the clitoral tissue).

All that to say, there’s a lot more surface area and a lot more sensation to be had than most people might think. It’s one of the reasons that clitoral arousal gels are so popular – that’s a lot of nerves and a lot of opportunities for longer, stronger, and more orgasms.

Clitoral arousal creams, gels, oils, and balms are topical products that are used on the outside of the body to slowly (or quickly) increase blood flow to the vulva and heighten sensations by increasing sensitivity. But where do you start when choosing a stimulant for yourself?

Silicone, Water-based, or Oil For Clitoral Stimulation?

First, just like lubricants, clitoral stimulants come in a variety of formulas that have their own unique benefits.

Some of the most common are water-based, they’re easy to apply, easy to clean and often come in flavored options, like JO Mint Chip Chill Flavored Clitoral Stimulant which combines the cooling tingle and taste of peppermint with a smooth chocolate undertone.

But if you’re looking for something a bit more long-lasting, a silicone-based formula might be right for you. Silicone stimulant formulas stay where you put them and are great for slippery fun in the shower or exploring ice or other temperature play that might otherwise wash away a water-based formula.

Oil-based formulas are ideal for longer play and if you’re looking for a light texture and smooth feel. With oil stimulants a little goes a long way, so one bottle can last quite a while and offer a lot of opportunities to enjoy.

Warm, Cool, or Buzzy?

Arousal creams are specifically formulated using natural extracts and vasodilators – compounds that dilate blood vessels and increase blood flow to the area – which can intensify every touch and caress. They generally fall into three categories: cooling, warming, and buzzing.

Cooling Clitoral Arousal

Cooling arousal gels often use natural extracts like peppermint and menthol (a stronger form of mint) to give that cool tingling sensation. Plus, those containing peppermint sometimes also plump the tissue making it even more sensitive and exciting. If you’re a big fan of minty gum or like the sensation of sports creams, a cooling stimulant might be the perfect fit.

Warming Clitoral Arousal

Warming arousal gels often use natural extracts like capsaicin to offer a gentle warming sensation that builds over time. Different concentrations of extracts can lead to very different experiences, so starting with a mild stimulant like JO Spicy Clitoral Gel and then working up to a more intense formula would be a great idea for beginners. 

Buzzing Clitoral Arousal

Looking for something more…electrifying? Buzzing arousal gels are a unique sensation for sure. Formulated using ingredients like Sichuan peppers and Winged Prickly Ash extract, they create a mild buzzy tingle across the skin and heighten sensitivity. JO Warm & Buzzy adds a unique combination of Sichuan pepper and other vasodilators to create an unparalleled thrilling sensation that buzzes along the skin.

Finding new ways to explore and enjoy different sensations can be a lot of fun, and luckily we have a lot of unique options available to us - the options are limitless!