There are so many different kinds of sexual enhancers on the market, it's hard to tell what's the "real deal" and what's got the same level of credibility as those blue mysterious pills you see next to the cash register at your local bodega. So in the interest of sexuality journalism (and a little sex geekery on my part), I looked into arousal gels and how they actually work to enhance your sex life.There are many ways in which a person could be experiencing sexual dissatisfaction. A person could be new to a relationship and nervous about communicating their needs and desires, or they're in a long term relationship and in need of some new and exciting sexual exploration. They could have recently had surgery in the pelvic area and be experiencing issues with arousal and orgasm as a result, or perhaps they've gone on a new anti-depressant and are finding that it's affecting their sexual function. Perhaps they're getting older and are either menopausal or post-menopausal, so the level of estrogen has lowered, which sometimes causes vaginal dryness and decreased sensitivity/blood flow. Maybe they're just new to sexual intercourse and haven't found their favorite ways to get off yet (or haven't had their first orgasm yet!).Our sexuality is complex and has many overlapping elements to it that can come into play, whether we're on our own or with a partner. Issues of sexual intimacy, partner satisfaction, previous sexual trauma and self-image are also factors to consider in maintaining our sexual health.So while some of these concerns have to be addressed by a medical professional, others can be aided by a trip to Babeland for a workshop or a shopping expedition with your partner. Here at Babeland, we currently carry two arousal gels, the Blossom Organics Pure Pleasure Arousal Gel and the Sliquid Organics Stimulating O Gel. Both of these gels are paraben-free and contain organic ingredients. The Sliquid gel is also vegan and glycerin-free. Neither of these gels are compatible with latex condoms, as they both contain natural oils that can break down the latex.The primary function of these arousal gels is to promote vasocongestion, or the swelling of tissue that increases blood flow to an area of the body. The increased blood flow can increase the sensitivity of an area when a gel is applied topically. The resulting vasocongestion is responsible for erections, the swelling of the nipples, the tingling around the clitoris as well as the "sex flush" some people get in their cheeks and face. Vasocongestion can be stimulated by a variety of arousal gel ingredients, including L-Arginine (the amino acid that precedes nitric oxide production, causing increased blood flow), menthol (which may promote the gel's absorption and draw blood to the area) and niacin, or B3 (which causes flushing). Cinnamon oil, which is used in our Emerita Warming Lubricant, has long been used as a sexual stimulant as well, due to its tingling, stimulating effects.It's best to try a gel or lube on the inside of your mouth before applying it to the genital area. This will give you a better idea of how the sensitive skin of the genitals will react. The reaction will vary significantly from person to person, so like any new product, proceed slowly and listen to your body. Arousal gels only address one physical aspect of sexual function, so don't be discouraged if they're not the right product for you. As I mentioned earlier, there are a multitude of factors to consider when examining sexual satisfaction and overall health. And if you have concerns about the ingredients in a product and how they might react with any other medication you're taking, consulting your doctor is key.Got more questions about arousal gels, or sexual stimulating products? Post your questions here and I'll answer them here! body. Arousal gels only address one physical aspect of sexual function, so don't be discouraged if they're not the right product for you. As I mentioned earlier, there are a multitude of factors to consider when examining sexual satisfaction and overall health. And if you have concerns about the ingredients in a product and how they might react with any other medication you're taking, consulting your doctor is key.Got more questions about arousal gels, or sexual stimulating products? Post your questions here and I'll answer them here!