Latex allergy? The latex free condoms that still protect against STIs
A latex allergy doesn't mean going without. Polyisoprene, polyurethane and polyethylene still protect against STIs. Lambskin doesn't.
By spafe ·Reviewed 18 Jul 2026 ·Backed by the database or cited
Found out latex doesn’t agree with you? It’s more common than you’d think, and it doesn’t mean giving up condoms or protection. Several materials are latex free and protect against STIs and pregnancy just as latex does, with one important exception we cover below.
Signs of a latex reaction
A latex allergy typically shows as itching, redness or swelling where the condom touched skin, sometimes with a rash. Reactions range from mild to, rarely, serious. If you suspect one, stop using latex condoms and see a GP. This guide is about your options rather than a diagnosis.
The latex free materials
- Polyisoprene, a synthetic version of rubber with the latex proteins removed. It’s soft and stretchy, and closest to latex in feel. SKYN and Durex Real Feel are polyisoprene.
- Polyurethane, a thin plastic with no rubber proteins at all. It conducts heat well and can be made very thin, though it has less give than polyisoprene.
- Polyethylene, another latex free plastic used in some newer condoms such as Glyde Unique.
- Nitrile, the synthetic rubber used in medical gloves. Durex’s latex free Intense Next Gen range is nitrile, and so is the internal condom.
All three are free of latex proteins and all three protect against STIs and pregnancy, so you’re not trading safety for comfort. You can see every one we stock, with widths and prices, on the latex free condoms page.
The exception, lambskin
One natural alternative is lambskin, also called natural membrane. It is latex free, but its material has tiny pores that block sperm yet are large enough to let viruses through. That means lambskin prevents pregnancy but does not protect against STIs. Because it is easy to mistake for a safe latex free option, we flag every lambskin product on the site with a clear no STI protection warning. If STI protection matters to you, choose polyisoprene, polyurethane or polyethylene instead.
The other latex free option, worn by your partner
There’s also the internal condom, a nitrile pouch worn by the receptive partner instead of on the penis. It’s latex free by design, protects against STIs, and sidesteps the allergy question entirely. Only one product is sold in Australia and it’s online only, so it’s a considered buy rather than a corner shop one, but it belongs on this list.
A note on your partner
If it’s your partner who reacts to latex, the same options apply, and a synthetic condom removes the latex without removing the protection. Whichever way you land, there’s a comfortable option here for you. To narrow it down by feel and budget as well as material, the condom finder filters to latex free from the first question.
Common questions
Do latex free condoms protect against STIs?
Polyisoprene, polyurethane and polyethylene condoms protect against STIs and pregnancy, the same as latex. The one exception is lambskin, which does not protect against STIs.
What are latex condoms made of instead?
The main latex free materials are polyisoprene, a soft synthetic rubber, then polyurethane, a thin plastic with no rubber proteins, and polyethylene. All are free of latex proteins, so there's a feel to suit most people.
Why does lambskin not protect against STIs?
Lambskin, also called natural membrane, has tiny pores that block sperm but are large enough to let viruses through. It prevents pregnancy but not STIs, so we flag it wherever it appears here.
Can I have a latex allergy and not know?
It's possible, since reactions range from mild itching to, rarely, something serious. If you react to latex condoms, stop using them and see a GP, and switch to a synthetic material in the meantime.
Find the one that fits you.
Measure once and get your width band with matching in-stock condoms, or answer a few questions and we'll shortlist them for you.