Let’s Talk About Lube!

When it comes to sex and sex-related activities, the rule of thumb is generally: the wetter the better! So what’s the deal with lube? 

Well, it’s a lubricant that’s used during play time that reduces friction and allows for easier penetration. In this way, it’s definitely a mood enhancer for those who suffer from vaginal dryness, and a basic necessity for anal sex. But that’s not all it’s good for.

Lube can be used as a means to spice up your trysts, whether it’s with a partner or solo. There are lubes that have different aromas, sensations, and tastes that you could experiment with. In fact, 70 percent of 2,453 women surveyed by Indiana University agreed that lube made sex more pleasurable and enjoyable.

What Are the Different Kinds of Lube?

Water-Based Lube

Water-based lube is cost-effective, safe to use with condoms and silicone toys, and—according to Carli Blau, a sex and relationship therapist—water-based lube can decrease the risk of condom breakage. 

If you like to go from oral to penetrative sex however, the taste of glycerin-free lube can be quite bitter and could become sticky over time. 

Additionally, water-based lube doesn’t fare too well in water, such as in the shower, as the water will simply wash it away. 

Our top pick: Defense Protection Glide, a water-based glycerin-free lube that is an anti-yeast infection and HPV protection glide made of carrageenan and guava bark antibacterial extract.

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 odourless and tasteless, and can be used with condoms. They too can be used with sex toys, but rubber is off-limits as it can break down the material of the toy over time. 

This kind of lube is great for shower sex but just a bit tedious to wash off. We also recommend keeping this kind of lube away from hardwood floors, as it may stain and leave your floor slightly slippery for a few months.

Our top pick: Premium Silicone Personal Moisturizer by Sensuva which has been formulated with a blend of three medical-grade silicones. It’s long-lasting and is ideal for those with delicate tissue, sensitive skin, and allergies.

Oil-Based Lube

Oil-based lubes are also great for longer sessions, and provides a slippery feel for all kinds of play such as masturbation with or without toys, penetrative unprotected sex, and fun in the shower. Another bonus is that oil-based lube can be used as a sensual massage oil too.

Be aware though that oil-based lube shouldn’t be used with latex condoms as it can dissolve the latex, causing breakage. Oil-based lube is also a bit tedious to wash off.

Our top pick: Let’s Make Magic by Luvloob, a natural oil-based lube made in New Zealand that enhances sexual pleasure. This lube can also be used as massage oil, and safe to use with silicone-based toys. It’s not recommended during latex-based condom use however.

Which Lube is Recommended for 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. It’s also recommended to use a water-based lube during anal sex, as it can decrease the risk of condom breakage. Oil-based lube isn’t recommended, as it could increase the chance of condom breakage.  

You’re also going to want to apply the lube on the outside of the condom, as this will decrease the chances of slippage. Applying it to the inside could cause slippage.

We recommend:

	LELO Personal Moisturizer: a water-based lube that can be used during penetration, foreplay, or simply as a relaxing moisturizer to your intimate areas. It’s fortified with aloe vera, which makes it suitable for longer play.
	Intimate Earth Ease Relaxing Anal Silicone: an all-natural chamomile silicone glide that has muscle-relaxing properties, making anal sex even more pleasurable.
	Pjur Back Door Comfort Water Anal Glide: a thick, water-based lube that’s suitable for those who like it hard. It’s long-lasting and creates small water cushions that support the lubricating effect without getting sticky.

Whatever your pleasure, remember the general rule of thumb: the wetter the better!

Article by:
Helena Lorimer, Sexual Health and Wellness Expert at JOUJOU