If you read the title of this article and immediately thought, “spit is the best answer,” you’re either Amish, or you just haven’t become aware of the amazing technological advancements that have taken place in the lube market over the last few years. These days you can avoid “high viscosity breakdown” during sex by choosing a top-tier lube for you and your partners to use. So how do you choose and which one would be best? Of course, the answer depends on what you’re planning to do, so let’s have a look into the pool of lubes available right now!
First, let’s talk about how to lube. Although there is no correct way to use it, in all cases, the lubes you’ll use for sex are acceptable for use. The only potential issue is if you have any allergies where you might find that some lubes will cause some minor irritation. Which is why we’ll cover all the four major types of lubes and their properties.
Lubrication is an integral part of vaginal sex and masturbation for those that don’t want to risk friction burns. It’s critical if you’re going to do butt stuff. There’s no correct amount of lube to use, but you may want to start with a little and see if it’s enough rather than over-lubricate, which may cause a loss of sensation for some partners.
Water-Based
These lubricants are among the most versatile, and you can use them for pretty much anything. Because they’re water-based, they won’t have any adverse effects on toys or condoms, latex, silicone, or non-latex. Unlike some other options, it won’t contribute to the risk of a condom breaking. It’s non-toxic, and you can find several flavored options.
Pluses for water-based lube:
It washes off easily.
It doesn’t stain clothes or sheets.
It won’t cause a reaction to your skin.
Downside: It can dry out faster than other options, making it so tacky that a long sex session will require multiple applications. You can also have issues if you’re having sex in the water, and remember, water is not a lubricant, no matter how many movies try to convince you that hot-tub sex is a romantic and sexy thing.
Major brands that are water-based are Astroglide, K-Y, and Juicy Lube.
Silicone Based
If you find water and oil-based lubricants cause some irritation, then silicone-based lube will likely be a good match for you. It’s hypoallergenic and lasts longer than water-based options. It’s another lube that won’t wash away if you’re partial to shower sex.
It’s also safe to use with condoms, both latex, and non-latex.
One of the primary drawbacks of silicone-based lubes is their effect on silicone-based toys. Over time a silicone-based lube will deteriorate the surface of your toys. This can cause abrasions and pitting that mar the toy’s smoothness and make cleaning them more difficult because the germs and bacteria will now have an environment to grow.
Another downside of silicone-based lubricants is that they will dry out over time and get sticky while they dry slower than water-based lubricants. Just keep it close by so you can reapply whenever it’s necessary.
Oil Based
Examples of oil-based lubricants include baby oil, most massage oils, coconut oil, and several commercial options formulated specifically for sex. These options are very easy to obtain and purchase without being embarrassed about buying something specifically for sex. They can also be cheaper than buying commercial branded water-based lubes.
Some women who are sensitive to certain ingredients within water-based lubricants may find that oil-based is a great alternative that won’t irritate those sensitive places. Because it’s oil, you will also find that it lasts a lot longer than the other options out there and will not be washed away by water if you decide to go the romantic hot-tub route.
On the downside: Oil-based lubes may degrade latex-based condoms and weaken them. Oil can also cause stains, so if you’re thinking of having a marathon sex session on your best sheets, think about putting down a towel or be frugal with your level of lube.
It’s also important to note that some oil-based lubricants are not ideal for some women’s lady parts. Petroleum jelly can cause irritation and urinary infections.
If you’re using coconut oil, consider potential cross-contamination issues if the jar you’re sticking your hand into to lube up during anal sex is also the one that you use for cooking. Just don’t do it.
The Bottom Line
Whichever way you like your slippery shenanigans, it’s worth investing in a few different types of lube that suit the mood and kind of play you want to indulge in. Sometimes light massage oil can start an evening with a sensual rub down and be just right for a yoni massage or penetrative sex. For anal play, you may find an oil-based lube that has the perfect properties for foreplay, warming up, and some hard fucking. It’s all about finding the right match of lubrication, sensitivity, and control – just like every other aspect of sex!
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