The Ultimate Guide to Lubricants

Did you know that some lubricants can damage condoms and sex toys? Or that many lubes contain glycerin, carcinogenic phthalates, and petroleum products that are toxic and can mess with the natural hormones in your body?

Most of us are not educated on the proper use of lubes and their ingredients. It’s so true that using lubricant while pleasuring oneself or with a partner can make the experience more pleasurable and fun!  But it is a good idea to do your homework to know how to use it properly. Some lubricants can add to your personal pleasure but some can irritate, cause yeast infections or even cause condoms to break. Here’s the breakdown on types of lubes to help you figure out the best choice for you and your partner.

Water-based lube

There are many advantages to a water-based lube. They are easy to shop for because most markets and local drug stores carry them. A good quality water-based lube will add pleasure and fun to your sexy time without causing irritation, staining your sheets or damaging condoms or sex toys. However they are not all created equal, and some can contain toxic chemicals. Be sure to purchase a lubricant that’s natural and doesn’t contain sugar, which can cause infections. 

My favorite water-based lubes include aloe cadabra and pjur natural.

However water-based lubes are not the best option for keeping things slick during steamy shower or pool sex. That’s where oil-based lubes come in.

Oil-based lubes

You probably already have a natural oil product in your home. Coconut oil or olive oil are two good ones. What makes oil-based lubes great is that they last longer than water-based lubes and are wonderful for wet play like sex in the shower.  But make sure to read the ingredients carefully before using just any slippery lube-like product in your home. Many lotions, oils and shave gels contain harsh dyes or scents that might cause allergies, rashes or other annoying irritations that will immediately kill your playtime vibe. 

Oil-base lubes such as pomegranate seed oil and jojoba oil are additional great options. The plus side is that they shouldn’t cause irritations or mess with your PH levels. Unfortunately, they can stain, so make sure to have a towel underneath you.

Be careful never to use oil-based lubes with condoms or latex toys, as the oil can damage the latex.  They may also cause condoms to become loose and increase risk of infection and sexually transmitted diseases. My favorite oil-based lube is coconut oil, which smells yummy and is edible, too!

Silicon based lubes

Silicone based lubes are readily available at sex stores, online and at some local drug stores. I have a love/hate with silicon lubes because silicone is a toxic ingredient that should not be going into delicate tissues in nether regions, and they can be challenging to wash off. However, they are the best option for anal sex, and they can also be great for water-immersed sexual activities, such as in the shower or tub.   

Be warned that silicon lubricants should not be used with silicon-based sex toys. They are fine to use with glass, hard plastic, ceramic, wood and stone toys. 

Lube is a delicious addition to masturbation, hand-jobs, and sex sessions. It’s essential for anal sex because the anus is not self- lubricating and it’s imperative that you don’t damage those delicate tissues. Adding lube to the tip of the penis prior to putting on a condom is a wonderful way to increase pleasure for men. There are also “sperm-safe” lubricants available if you have any infertility concerns. Do your research, make sure to read ingredients on the label, and you will find new ways to spice up your sex life and increase your pleasure!