Have you recently purchased a delay spray or are considering trying one? If so, you might have several questions regarding its proper usage. This is likely one of the most common topics that readers frequently ask me about. Therefore, in this article, I will endeavor to cover all the inquiries I am commonly asked.
I believe it is crucial to begin by stating that not all delay sprays and creams function in the same manner. Many are relatively similar, but there are often significant differences. That is why it is essential to carefully examine the instructions provided with them and the manufacturer’s website. However, in some cases, there is a minor issue in that not all sprays have a dedicated website with detailed instructions. There are numerous generic lidocaine sprays available for sale online, and they often have limited instructions. Consequently, in my opinion, it is better to opt for brands that have a dedicated team behind them rather than using a generic product with a catchy name but lacking proper support.
Not All Sprays Are Alike
It is important to note that not all delay sprays and creams operate in the same fashion. Many are similar, but there can be important differences. Therefore, it is crucial to check the instructions that come with them and the manufacturer’s website. In some cases, there may be a problem in that not all sprays have a dedicated website with detailed instructions. There are many generic lidocaine sprays available online that have limited information. Hence, it is advisable to stick with brands that have a dedicated team supporting them rather than using a generic product with a cool name but without proper guidance.
A Standard Approach to Applying a Delay Spray
If the spray you have purchased does not have clear instructions, you have three options: either attempt to find instructions, leave it and look for a different product, or experiment by following the standard instructions provided by other similar products. Below, I have attempted to answer the key questions based on my personal experience and the information provided by some of the most well-known delay spray companies – Promescent, Super Dragon 6000, Stud 100, Dynamo Delay, Adam & Eve, and Fortacin.
Most lidocaine and benzocaine sprays work in a similar manner to those I will refer to in this article. However, it is essential to emphasize that if you follow these instructions for a different product or one with different ingredients, you do so at your own risk.
1. Start Slowly
My preference is to begin with just one spray to determine if your skin can tolerate the ingredients. Most people are able to tolerate them without issue, but in my opinion, if you are going to spray your penis, it is advisable to be cautious. Additionally, if you find that just one or two sprays are sufficient for you, the product will last longer, and you will save money. Here is the advice provided by the companies regarding the number of sprays:
- Promescent: apply 3 sprays or more, but no more than 10.
- Stud 100: apply 3 to 5 sprays.
- Super dragon: apply 2 sprays.
- Adam & Eve: apply 2 to 5 sprays.
- Dynamo: 1-3 sprays, and no more than 10.
- Fortacin: 3 sprays. No more than 9 in 24 hours. Leave 4 hours between each set of 3.
Ideally, you should be able to determine the minimum number of sprays that works best for you and then repeat that amount when needed. Some men may require only one spray, while others may need five – you will not know until you try the product.
2. Target the Right Area
You may receive conflicting advice regarding the exact location to spray. In my opinion, the best approach is to experiment and spray on the most sensitive parts of your penis rather than covering it completely. If you do so, there is a higher likelihood of numbing yourself too much, which can result in erection problems or a diminished enjoyment of sex. Here is what the companies recommend:
- Promescent: the underside of the penis head and some on the underside of the shaft.
- Stud 100: the head and shaft of the penis.
- Super dragon: the head.
- Adam & Eve: the head and shaft of the penis.
- Dynamo: the head and shaft of the penis.
- Fortacin: the head after retracting the foreskin.
Once you have sprayed it, gently rub it in until it appears to be absorbed. This typically takes no more than 10 to 20 seconds, although it may take longer if you also rub it into the shaft along with the head. Again, through experimentation, you should be able to determine which parts of your penis require targeting and which can be left alone.
3. Flaccid or Erect?
It does not matter whether you apply it when the penis is flaccid or erect. It will work equally well, so it is up to you to decide what is most convenient for you and your partner.
4. How Long Before Sex to Spray?
Different sprays have different timing requirements. None of them allow you to have sex immediately after spraying. There is a waiting period to ensure that it is absorbed and functioning properly and also to prevent it from transferring to your partner. The following are the recommended waiting times for different sprays:
- Promescent: 5-10 minutes.
- Stud 100: 5-10 minutes.
- Super dragon: 5 minutes.
- Adam & Eve: 5 minutes.
- Fortacin: 5 minutes.
- Dynamo: 5-10 minutes.
So, you can see that 5-10 minutes is a fairly safe bet when using a lidocaine or benzocaine spray.
5. Do I Need to Wash It Off Before Sex?
This is perhaps one of the main areas of confusion, as the companies rarely provide specific instructions on exactly what is meant by “wipe/wash off the excess.” Here is what I think is a good idea to do:
- Spray and gently rub it in. Note that Fortacin does not mention rubbing it in; simply spray and wait. Some sprays do not drip, so you do not need to rub them in. Others advise rubbing it into the skin once sprayed.
- Wait for the recommended time, usually 5-10 minutes.
- Wipe off any excess with a damp cloth or tissue. Even if you cannot see any excess, it may be a good idea to wipe it anyway.
- Wash your hands.
The washing aspect is confusing as no company provides clear instructions on what to do. Personally, I think it is beneficial to experiment. I find that a quick wipe after rubbing in helps remove most of the excess. Then, a wash or even a shower once the absorption time has elapsed can help ensure there is no transfer to your partner. In my experience, the good sprays still work effectively even after a long hot shower, so there is no need to worry about the effect diminishing.
6. Wash Your Hands
Very few companies mention this, but those that do emphasize its importance. You should wash your hands after applying the spray to prevent transferring it to your partner or getting it in other sensitive areas such as the eyes.
7. How Long Does the Delay Spray Last?
This greatly depends on the individual and the spray. In my experience, most of them keep you numb for at least an hour.
8. Can You Choose to Have Unprotected Sex or Use a Condom?
This again depends on the spray, so it is essential to check with the manufacturer. The following are the guidelines for different sprays:
- Promescent: both are okay.
- Stud 100: both are okay, but use latex condoms.
- Super dragon: both are okay.
- Adam & Eve: both are okay – use latex condoms.
- Dynamo: they do not specify.
- Fortacin: both are okay. However, for condoms, you cannot use a latex-free female or male condom made of polyurethane.
9. Can You Have Oral Sex?
Some say yes, while others suggest avoiding it. The reasons usually include a bad taste or the risk of transfer to your partner. Here is the information for different sprays:
- Promescent: yes, as long as you wash it off before.
- Stud 100: yes, but wait up to 15 minutes first.
- Super dragon: no because the taste may be unpleasant.
- Adam & Eve: I could not find information about this.
- Dynamo: yes as long as you wash it off first.
- Fortacin: they do not mention it. However, they do say to be careful if you accidentally numb their mouth.
10. Can You Use It If You Are Trying to Get Pregnant or Already Are Pregnant?
Most sprays advise against using them if you are trying to conceive or if your partner is already pregnant. Here is a helpful quote from the Promescent website:
lidocaine has not been proven to be safe to use in pregnancy. We recommend being cautious.
The Stud 100 website also states not to use it if your partner is pregnant.
Fortacin has a clear instruction on this:
Fortacin should not be used whilst your partner is pregnant unless you use an effective male condom… Fortacin may reduce the possibility of pregnancy. Therefore, patients hoping to achieve conception should either avoid using Fortacin, or, if this medicine is essential to achieve penetration, should wash the penis as thoroughly as possible five minutes after Fortacin has been applied, but prior to intercourse.
11. How Often Can You Use a Spray?
There is no clear answer to this question as it depends on the specific type and quantity of numbing ingredient. Some sprays have instructions on this, but many do not. Here are two examples:
- Promescent: no more than 20 sprays in 24 hours.
- Fortacin: no more than 9 sprays in 24 hours, with 4 hours between each use.
12. Can You Use a Delay Spray and Viagra-Type Drugs Together?
As far as I am aware, there are no safety concerns directly related to combining desensitizing sprays and medications like viagra. So, as long as it is safe for you to use each one individually, it should be okay to combine them as well. Personally, I would err on the side of caution and ask your doctor for their advice regarding combining medications, especially if you are currently taking any other medications.
13. Preventing Spray Waste
A clever trick I learned from a reader is to first spray into a small glass. Then you can dip your finger into the liquid formed and rub it onto the desired area of your penis. This can help prevent waste by ensuring the spray covers all the penis. Alternatively, you can spray from a distance of 2 to 3 cm, which should
