What the wipes are
Promescent Delay Wipes are wipes containing benzocaine 7%, with propylene glycol as the only inactive ingredient. The label describes them as a male genital desensitizer "for reducing oversensitivity in the male in advance of intercourse," and DailyMed lists them as an OTC monograph drug (Promescent Delay Wipes — DailyMed).
Directions on the label: apply a small amount to the head and shaft of the penis before sex and wash it off afterwards.
Evidence for benzocaine
Topical anesthetics as a group lengthen time to ejaculation, and an umbrella review of 44 meta-analyses rated that evidence moderate to high, though with more side effects than placebo, and cautioned that only 6 of the 65 trials it covered had a low risk of bias PMID: 40326158. Most of that evidence is for lidocaine or lidocaine-prilocaine. The only recent benzocaine trial identified for this review tested benzocaine condoms rather than wipes: in a short-term randomized comparison of 273 men with lifelong premature ejaculation, benzocaine condoms lengthened latency, but by less than lidocaine spray or lidocaine-prilocaine cream (a prescription cream, used off-label for PE), and had the fewest side effects PMID: 41144023. No PubMed-indexed trial of benzocaine wipes was found, which is why the wipes get an evidence grade of C.
Cautions
The label says to avoid contact with the eyes and to stop if you or your partner develop a rash or irritation such as burning or itching, seeing a doctor if symptoms persist. It also notes that premature ejaculation may be due to a condition requiring medical supervision, and says to stop and consult a doctor if the product does not help when used as directed. The label says nothing about condoms.
Wipes or spray?
Consider the wipes if you prefer a wipe to a spray and accept less evidence. Choose the Promescent spray instead if you want the option with more trial support or an adjustable dose. Our premature ejaculation guide compares every option, including techniques and prescription treatments.