We’ve all been there…staring at a drugstore shelf full of lube wondering which one to choose. Silicone-based? Plant-based? Flavored? If all these options leave you reeling, you’re not alone. We’re here to give you the real real on some of the most common lube types, so stick around to learn about 5 must-try lubes.
Why Lead With Lube?
When it comes to lube, more is more. Many people think that lube is only helpful for certain kinds of sex. The truth is, lube adds a whole new layer of comfort, fun, and pleasure to just about any form of play.
Let’s say it together, lube turns foreplay into more play! If you’re looking for a more intense fingering experience, apply some lube to reduce unwanted friction and go harder for longer. Want to up your oral game? The right edible lube brings added flavor and moisture to the party. To incorporate more sensuality in the bedroom, certain sensation-enhancing lubes can make touching or stroking your partner even more exciting.
Even when it comes to penetrative sex, lube is the gift that keeps on giving. If you have a penis, try adding a bit of lube underneath your condom to help increase sensitivity. If you’re on the receiving end, don’t be afraid to add lube to an already lubricated toy or condom.
Before we jump into the different kinds of lube, let’s get familiar with the different lube formula categories. While there are other more niche lube formulations, the majority of them fall under one of these three types.
- Water-based: These lubes have a water-based formula that is gentler on sensitive skin. When playing with water-based lubes, remember that your body will absorb the water over time. This means you’ll need to reapply every now and then to keep the lube from drying out. These lubes are also safe to use on any type of sex toy or condom.
- Silicone-based: Compared to other lube types, these lubes are thicker. That means that they're great for long-lasting slipperiness. While silicone-based lube can be used with condoms, the same can’t be said for all sex toys. Silicone-based lubes can break down silicone toys over time, so remember to check the material your toys are made of before adding lube to them.
- Oil-based: For those who want a smooth massage, oil-based lube could be a great choice. However, oil-based lube should never be used internally or on sex toys. The oil can make it harder for your body to clean itself, and it is very difficult to remove from sex toys without the use of chemicals.
5 Types of Lube You Should Try
1. Flavored
Looking to add a tasty twist to your sex life? Flavored lube can add to the duration and intensity of oral sex. We know that performing oral is a game of endurance. So enhancing the experience for the partner giving oral is a win-win for both partners.
When it comes to flavored lube, it’s extra important to look at the ingredients and recommended uses of each one. Some flavored lubes contain sugar, which can cause genital infections when used internally. On the other hand, other flavored lubes are sugar-free and water-based, meaning they’re safe for internal and external use.
2. Anal
You’ve got to lube up for anal play. Why? The anus does not self-lubricate, so anal sex can produce a lot of friction compared to other forms of penetrative play. Without lube—and a lot of it—anal can be painful, especially for first-timers. That’s why having a thick lubricant is essential for comfortably and safely easing into anal sex.
You’ll want to tailor the type of lube you use for the kind of anal play you’re engaging in. Specifically, you should always use water-based lube when using silicone butt toys like plugs or vibrators to keep the toys from degrading. On the flip side, some of the best types of lube for toy-less anal play are silicone-based. That’s because silicone-based lubes last longer and are thicker than water-based ones, thus giving more cushion for your tush.
3. Warming or Cooling
Time to play hot and cold in the best way possible. Temperature play with warming and cooling lubes can bring exciting sensations into the bedroom. Just as their name suggests, warming and cooling lubes warm-up or cool down when they make contact with the skin. Most warming lube contains glycerol or glycerin to create warm, tingly sensations. On the other hand, cooling lubes contain menthol to create a gentle, cooling feeling.
Warming and cooling lubricants can heighten sensation and pleasure during foreplay or sex. In fact, some people find that temperature play helps them achieve more intense arousal and orgasms. As long as the lube you’re using is water-based, a cooling or warming lube can also be a game-changer for sex toy play.
Like with any other part of sex, pleasure is deeply personal. So remember to check in with yourself when trying a new warming or cooling lube. If the sensation is too intense or even painful for you, remember to stop and contact your doctor.
4. Plant-based
Let’s take a walk on the natural side. Often formulated with a base of aloe vera, plant-based lubes are a great, gentle lube option. For those with sensitivities or allergies to ingredients found in other types of lube, plant-based lube could be a game-changer for avoiding irritation or adverse reactions.
While some plant-based formulations are safe for all kinds of sex and play, remember to always check the ingredients on any plant-based lubricant. Some formulas contain plant oils that may not agree with your body or could make sex toys more difficult to clean.
Speaking of plant-based pleasure, Personal Fav’s whet sex serum takes pleasure to new heights with a luxuriously silken feel and the sweetness of Stevia.
5. Moisturizing
For those who want continued hydration from their lube, moisturizing lubes could become your next go-to’s. While lubrication provides temporary slip, moisturizing lubes often contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid to help your genitals stay hydrated and moisturized.
The added moisture of these types of lube can make for more comfortable and pleasurable sex. After all…the wetter, the better! While many of these lubes are water-based, remember to double-check the ingredients for silicone or oil before using them on your sex toys.
Stay Slick, Stay Safe
Let’s normalize the fact that lube should always be a part of sexy-time romps. It’s completely normal to need lube to have more comfortable, pleasurable sex. Also, keep in mind that lube isn’t a cure-all for painful sex. If you’re experiencing consistent pain or discomfort during sex, be sure to contact your doctor immediately.
We hope you’ll take your newfound know-how and have fun exploring the wide, wet world of lube.