Lubes are used to reduce friction during sex or with use of sex toys for ease of penetration by a penis or a sex toy for the vagina and anus. But when it comes to selecting a lube it can be very confusing.  There are so many different types available. How do you know what’s right for you?

Trial and error is the only way you are going to find your perfect lube, but here are just a few little helpful pointers to start you off.

Silicone – Usually formulated with less than 4 ingredients and does not contain water.  Silicone lubricants are silky smooth, long lasting and great for bath and shower play and are not sticky.   They are not absorbed by skin and last longer than water based lubes.  Usually slightly more expensive and most CANNOT be used with any Silicone toys as the formula may dissolve the surface making it sticky to the touch and cause disintegration of the item over time.
Being silicone based these lubes are water resistant which does make them a little bit trickier to clean up.

Water based – These are water-soluble and are the most widely used personal lubricants.  Because water based lubes absorb into the skin and evaporate, they can have the effect of drying out during use and re-application may be required and this is usually sufficient to reactivate them but it can leave a slight residue after evaporation.  Newer formulates can contain natural skin moisturizers that may not leave any sticky residue after evaporation.

Good quality water based lubes won’t dry out too quickly, be low irritant, and have good skin adsorption and perfect to use with all sex toys.  Not the best lube for water fun as they can be dissolved or dispersed in the water. With varies different agents added in today’s products for even dispersal, moisture retention and resistance to contamination you still have to find the right one for you.

Flavoured – Most are water based and contain flavouring additives, you just have to find a flavour you like.  Kiwifruit, Wild Cherry, Strawberry and Pina Colada are just a few examples.

Stimulating/Tingling/Warming – A combination of ingredients designed to stimulate and increase desire to cause the named sensation.  With using only just a small amount it makes sexual touch and movement more deeply and intensely felt.

Natural/Organic – They may say that they are natural and/or organic but be aware of what is in the product.  Usually free from glycerine, fragrance and any animal based products and are for people with allergies and are specially formulated for very sensitive skin.

Oil – Oil based lubes are best for couples in a relationship that does not require the use of condoms and for people that have to avoid certain additives and preservatives often found in some lubricants. They moisturise and nourishe the skin but CANNOT be used with condoms as they can increase the likelihood of breakage and causes loss of elasticity.

Anal – Many lubes are safe for anal play but there are specifically marketed and designed lubes that are made with an extra thick formula which helps the lubricant stay in place and it provides more padding for anal play.  Some also have desensitising agents for sensitive areas which you have to use safely as they will numb the area and as there is a lack of sensation injury can occur if not used carefully.

If you suffer allergies to preservatives or cosmetics it is best to test any new product near or in the shower/bath as you can quickly wash it off if you have any reaction.

Just think how much fun you are going to have whilst you’re trying to find the right lubricant for you.  Enjoy!

By Jenifer Grant