When it comes to sex and sex-related activities, you can usually play by the rule: the wetter, the better. And this is why we should talk about lubes!
Yes, lubricants are great if you suffer vaginal dryness, but if this is the only association for you to lubes, it’s time to step out of the box. Instead, think less friction, smoother skin, easier penetration, and all-around better sex — no matter your gender, age, or stage in life.
Needing a lubricant does not mean that you’re not interested in your partner (confirmed by sexual therapists). So let’s get rid of the idea that lubrication is the only indication of arousal. However, aside from that, it’s still worth remembering that lubricants can but give some extra in your activities, whether it’s with a partner or solo.
So, which one to choose if you’re new to this topic? How to find the best lubricant for you? There are lubes with different aromas, sensations, and tastes that you could experiment with, but there are few rules you might want to take note of.
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT KINDS OF LUBE?
When shopping, you’ll want to think about the different types of lube out there when choosing the one that’s best for you. Lubes come in a variety of bases:
- water
- silicone
- oil
- hybrid, combining a few of the above
WATER-BASED LUBE
Water-based lube is cost-effective, safe to use with condoms and silicone toys, and if you are using condoms for protection, it’s good to know that water-based lube can decrease the risk of condom breakage.
The downside of water-based lubes – if you like to go from oral to penetrative sex, the taste of glycerin-free lube can be quite bitter and could become sticky over time.
And if you want to use it in the shower, it’s not the best idea – since it is water-based, it is soluble in water, and the water will simply wash it away.
Our top picks:
LELO Personal Moisturizer: lube that can be used during penetration, foreplay, or simply as a relaxing moisturizer to your intimate areas. It’s non-greasy, non-staining, and fortified with aloe vera, which makes it suitable for longer play.
SILICONE-BASED LUBE
Silicone-based lube is great for sensitive skin as it is hypoallergenic. A small amount goes a long way, and you can enjoy it for longer sessions. It’s odorless and tasteless, and you can use it with condoms. You can use silicone-based lube with sex toys, but we don’t recommend using it with rubber toys as it can break down the material over time.
This kind of lube is excellent for shower sex but just a bit tedious to washing it off. Use intimate wash to clean it up. We also recommend keeping this kind of lube away from hardwood floors, as it may stain and leave your floor slippery for a few months.
Our top pick:
SLOW SEX Full Body massage: gentle body-safe massage gel can be used for skin to skin massage anywhere – from full-body massage to intimate areas.
OIL-BASED LUBE
Oil-based lubes are also great for longer sessions. It provides a slippery feel for all kinds of play, such as masturbation (with or without toys), penetrative unprotected sex, and fun in the shower. A great bonus is that oil-based lubes can be used as a sensual massage oil too.
But the downside comes if you’re using a latex condom – oil can dissolve the latex and cause breakage. So, here is a fact to remember: all oil-based products increase the chances of a ripped or torn condom, defeating the condom’s purpose.
Oil-based lubricants are also associated with higher rates of infections, such as bacterial vaginosis. And your expensive sheets may be another reason to stay away from oil-based lubes. Oil tends to stain sheets and clothing and can also be challenging to clean up.
But if you know all the facts, it can be a great product to test out. Just not with condoms.
Our top pick:
BIJOUX INDISCRETS „Light My Fire“ Warming Massage Oil: a salty caramel aroma massage oil with warming effect. Finish the massage with kisses or by blowing on the skin to intensify the heat effect. Not recommended during latex-based condom use!
BUT WHAT ABOUT ANAL PLAY?
Lube is definitely recommended during anal play, as the anal canal doesn’t naturally produce fluids like the vagina does to help ease penetration. Use water-based lube during anal sex, as it can decrease the risk of condom breakage. Oil-based lube is therefore not recommended!
Our top pick:
SLOW SEX Anal Play Gel: this water-based gel combines aloe vera, arnica, and chamomile to relax your skin during anal play. Apply as much as you desire directly to the area, fingers, or toys, and let the fun begin!
LELO Personal Moisturizer: this water-based lube can be used during penetration, foreplay, also for anal play. It’s fortified with aloe vera, which makes it suitable for longer play.
Hopefully, this brief overview gave you some clarity about the difference between lubricants. Just think about what products you should avoid (for example, if you use condoms) and start exploring and testing. And if using the lube, remember – the wetter, the better!
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FULL BODY MASSAGE GEL, 50 ML€19,79
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WARMING MASSAGE OIL, 50 ML€19,79
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SLOW SEX ANAL PLAY GEL 30 ML€14,83