Beauty ingredient added to condoms proving popular with women in China as sales soar

Reckitt BenckiserIt revealed that 'women account for over a third of buyers of Durex Hyaluronic Acid condoms, higher than other condoms'

Hyaluronic acid, a popular beauty ingredient, is now also boosting condom sales across China, according to Durex maker Reckitt Benckiser.

The household goods giant reported that its recently launched range of hyaluronic-acid-lubricated condoms have seen double-digit growth in the first nine months of this year. Reckitt introduced its first hyaluronic acid-lubricated Durex condoms in China in October 2022 and released another version in March this year.

The company stated that the range was "designed inclusively with the pleasure of both partners in mind", but it's particularly popular among female customers. It was revealed that "women account for over a third of buyers of Durex Hyaluronic Acid condoms, higher than other condoms".

The ingredient, renowned in beauty circles and among women, is valued for its moisturising benefits, added the company.

The group said recent industry market share data showed it was the leader in the market for hyaluronic-acid-lubricated condoms in China The firm noted that Durex contributed to "high single-digit" sales growth of its intimate wellness ranges over the three months to September 30.

Kris Licht, Reckitt's chief executive, praised the success of the "innovative launch" in China. He mentioned that hyaluronic acid has a "moisturising benefit that’s of great interest to consumers". Durex, which launched in 1932, was Europe’s first manufacturer of latex condoms.