Newsletter - Natural and Eco-Friendly Options

PHTHALATE FREE
Over the past year, S3 discontinued all products know to contain phthalates, a plastic softener under study for harmful effects to humans. Until conclusive info is available, S3 will only continue to sell phthalate-free products.

NATURAL
Many customers ask for "natural lubricant" with the intention of purchasing a product that will be safe with the body. When choosing a product that will not interfere with the body's natural chemistry, the recommended choice may surprise you. Read about the options here...

LOCAL
The less distance a product has to travel to get onto our shelves, the lower the environmental impact associated with transportation. We do our best to offer products made in the USA!

S3 and the 3 Rs

Recycle: Before motorized products are sold, they are turned on to ensure proper working order. The result: a whole lot of dead batteries! Batteries are properly recycled, along with our boxes, plastics and paper waste.

Reuse: When we get a shipment of the latest sexual health products, the packing material is saved. We reuse peanuts and bubble wrap to protect your online orders!

Reduce: We try to reduce waste by asking customers if they need a bag and receipt. S3 also doesn't litter your mailbox with printed advertisements, mailers or fliers.

Many customers ask for "natural lubricant" with the intention of purchasing a product that will be safe with the body. Let's talk...

Most lubes advertised as "natural" are actually a risky choice for women who plan on using them vaginally.
Why? These "natural" lubes often contain plant and oil extracts (aloe, coconut oil, etc.). Although we can go into the wilderness and find these ingredients, they can alter PH levels in the vaginal canal, promote bacteria, and lead to yeast and/or bacterial infections. Not so great for the body, mind or spirit. Being able to recognize these items in nature is great for survival situations; not so much for vaginal lubrication. Additionally, oils of any kind can weaken latex condoms and cause them to break. Even if you are not using condoms, NEVER use oil in/on the vagina.

Simple water-based lubes have issues, too. Water is certainly natural and our body's main component. The issue is with all the other ingredients added to the water to make it a lubricant. The most prevalent and problematic ingredient found in most common water-based lubes, such as K-Y and Astroglide, is glycerin. Glycerin is a sugar alcohol, which can promote yeast infection in some women. It also contributes to the sticky and tacky feeling left after the water evaporates.

Glycerin-free water-based lubes are available, and are a step in the right direction for women sensitive to infection. This also helps to reduce stickiness. Like other water-bases, they will evaporate and absorb into the skin with use, so many people have to re-apply.

When choosing a product that will not interfere with the body's natural chemistry, we recommend silicone-based lubricants. Although the basic three ingredients won't be found on a walk in the woods, we encourage customers to consider the health benefits. First, silicone is hypoallergenic, so it will not cause any irritation...great for sensitive skin. Second, silicone is totally inert, which means it does not alter PH levels. Maintaining your body's normal PH level helps to prevent infection...naturally. Silicone does not absorb into the skin and blood stream. It stays on the surface, which makes it a long-lasting lube, and will easily wash off. Lastly, silicone lubes do not contain glycerin, sweeteners or oils. They are latex safe and found on most high quality, pre-lubricated condoms.

More information: Chart - Selecting a Lube | Lubrication Q&A | Lube in the News | Purchase Lubes