Managing ejaculation timing — without a pill, without distraction, without breaking connection with your partner. That's the promise of topical delay products. But how exactly do they work, are they safe, and who are they actually for?
In this guide: the science behind delay gels, how the Aia* Delay Gel specifically works, who the product is suited for — and who it isn't.
What is a delay gel?
A delay gel is a topical product applied to the penis (typically the glans and frenulum) to temporarily reduce sensitivity. The goal: slow the ejaculatory reflex so that intravaginal ejaculatory latency time (IELT) — the time between penetration and ejaculation — becomes longer.
There are two main types:
- Local anaesthetic gels (lidocaine, benzocaine, prilocaine) — block sodium channels, preventing nerves from transmitting signals
- Menthol-based gels (like Aia* Delay Gel) — activate TRPM8 cold receptors and create a light cooling effect that dampens sensitivity
The science behind topical delay products
A systematic review and meta-analysis published in PMC (2023, PMC10474909) evaluated 11 randomised controlled trials with 2,008 participants. The finding: all evaluated topical products were significantly more effective than placebo at extending IELT.
An earlier review (PubMed 2015, 26599522) compared topical anaesthesia with other premature ejaculation treatments. Conclusion: lidocaine gel outperformed oral medication (paroxetine) with an average additional 1.72 minutes of IELT.
How does menthol specifically work?
Menthol activates TRPM8 receptors (cold-sensitive transient receptor potential channels) on skin surfaces. This creates a cooling sensation that raises the sensitivity threshold — without sodium channel blockade. The effect is lighter than lidocaine, but also carries less risk of complete numbness.
The Aia* Delay Gel contains menthol extract in a water-based formulation that absorbs quickly. Apply 10-15 minutes before sexual activity.
Who is the Aia* Delay Gel for?
Best suited for:
- Men experiencing premature ejaculation (IELT consistently < 2 minutes)
- Men who want quick results without systemic medication (pills, SSRIs)
- Couples who want to intentionally extend sexual duration
Less suited for:
- Men with delayed ejaculation — the product further slows the reflex, which is counterproductive
- Situations where condom use is necessary for partner protection: menthol-based gels are compatible with latex, but always check the product description
- Partners with known menthol sensitivity
How to use it?
1. Apply to the glans and frenulum — zones with the highest concentration of nerve endings
2. Wait 10-15 minutes before sexual activity — this gives menthol time to absorb
3. Start with a small amount — the intensity varies by person; it's better to start low and build up
4. Pay attention to your partner's response — menthol can cause a tingling or cooling effect on partners during skin contact
Delay gel vs. other approaches
| Approach | Advantage | Disadvantage |
|---|---|---|
| Topical delay gel | Fast-acting, local effect | Temporary, requires planning |
| SSRI medication | Longer-lasting effect | Systemic, possible side effects |
| Start-stop technique | No products needed | Requires training, interrupts flow |
| Pelvic floor training | Addresses the cause | Results take weeks to months |
For acute situations, a delay gel is the most direct tool. For structural premature ejaculation, a combination with pelvic floor training or behavioural therapy makes more sense long-term.
Safety and side effects
Topical menthol gels are safe for normal use on genital skin tissue. Possible side effects:
- Light burning or tingling sensation on first use
- Partner menthol sensitivity (reduce the amount or apply and wipe dry before contact)
- Temporary sensitivity reduction that lasts longer than desired (use less)
With condoms: water-based gels are compatible with latex condoms. Oil-based gels are not — the Aia* Delay Gel is water-based and therefore condom-safe.
The verdict
Delay gels are a scientifically supported, locally acting solution for men who want to intentionally extend ejaculation timing. The Aia* Delay Gel uses menthol as its active ingredient — lighter than anaesthesia, but measurably effective.
They're not a magic solution or silver bullet for structural ejaculation problems — but as part of a broader sexual approach, they offer a direct, accessible step.
Discover the Aia* Delay Gel and other care products in the lubricants & oils collection.
Sources:
1. Topical Anesthetics and Premature Ejaculation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (2023). PMC. PMC10474909
2. Topical anaesthetics for premature ejaculation: a systematic review and meta-analysis (2015). PubMed. 26599522
3. Topical eutectic mixture for premature ejaculation (TEMPE): a novel aerosol-delivery form of lidocaine-prilocaine (2006). PubMed. 17129234
