Different Types of Lubes
If you’ve finished reading our The Lube Effect article, you already know what’s up and that is — personal lubricant is a must for better and safer sex! We covered the dos and don'ts in that read such as “can I use baby oil as lube?” or the keeping it budget friendly question, “can you use spit as lube?” So head over there before continuing on this lube low-down where we cover what type of personal lubricants exist and what you should try out. Let’s help you decide your best lube.
Water-based lube
As the name implies, these are made with water and are known as the “versatile”and most interchanging lube because it can be used in practically any activity you can think of — even ones involving silicone toys. Water-based lubes are thin and slippery, making them really easy to rinse off when the fun ends. This also means they’re prone to drying out quickly and you may need to apply more, which some people don’t like.
But in general, these are a good universal choice because, unlike oil-based lubes, they won’t damage latex safe-sex barriers like external condoms and dental dams. They also won’t degrade internal condoms, which are typically made of polyurethane (a type of plastic) or nitrile (a type of rubber). Water-based is also usually the best option as a natural lube because more water-based lubricants in the market are being formulated with vegan-friendly and hypoallergenic ingredients such as aloe vera. + One of the best lube for masturbation
Recommendations: Oomf, Almost Naked, Lola
Silicon-based lube
These have a much thicker consistency, are more slippery, and last longer than a water-based lubricant. Since silicone lubricants don’t dry out as quickly as water based-lubes, they are also one of the best lube for anal sex, where there is no natural lubrication working in your favor. You may feel some residue from the lube if you don’t wash it off completely, but you don’t need to worry about silicone-based lubes weakening latex, nitrile, and polyurethane condoms.
The one time you should never use silicone lube is when you’re using silicone sex toys. Silicone lubes will break down sex toys and when this happens, your toys become less sanitary, because it creates abrasions in the silicone where bacteria can grow. If you share sex toys or use them with more than one partner, make sure to use water-based lubricant when playing with toys to ensure your safety.
Recommendations: Überlube, Valm
Oil-based lube
If you’re the type that simply can’t be bothered with reapplying at all once you get going — we get it — this lube is the gift that keeps you going, going, and going. Pro tip: Oil-based lubes can double for sexy and fun massage time. But the downside comes if you’re using a latex condom. This type of lube increases the chances of a ripped or torn condom, defeating the condom’s purpose — and your good time in the process.
Baby oil, mineral oils, petroleum jellies or hand creams are easily found around the house, but they can damage the latex in condoms (meaning that they are more likely to break). Oil-based lubricants are also associated with higher rates of Candida, a type of fungus that’s responsible for yeast infections. 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 difficult to clean up.
Recommendations: Sweet Almond Oil, Argan Oil, Coconut Oil
Our Can CBD improve your sex life? article details how CBD lube can massively enhance your sex life. It can increase sensitivity, and make you feel more relaxed, which can lead to bigger, better, and more intense orgasms. Research has shown that adding CBD into your sex life can even increase your sex drive, and your body’s response during sex.
CBD is thought to decrease inflammation, increase blood flow and help with muscle relaxation, which can make CBD-infused lubricants a reliable option for women who have pain during intercourse. Shameless plug here, but Quanna’s Oomf lube infused with organically grown premium CBD lube is the best lube for menopause due the blend of hydrating plant based ingredients and CBD that promotes additional natural lubrication to counter vaginal dryness. Oomf also is pH balanced and enriched with prebiotics to protect the healthy microflora and keep infections at bay.
Recommendations: Foria, Kush Queen, Quim