What is lubricant?

Lubricant, or gel-lubricant, is a means of moisturizing the skin and mucous membranes of the genitals and improving glide during sex. It is needed to reduce unpleasant sensations from vaginal dryness, stimulate blood flow, and prevent microcracks.

If there is not enough natural lubrication, does that mean there are health problems?

Not necessarily. Natural lubrication is secreted within 10-15 minutes, it may not last long. Sometimes a decrease in secreted lubrication is related to hormonal imbalance (a lack of estrogens) or insufficient blood circulation in the genitals.

Moreover, there are types of sex where artificial lubrication is essential, such as anal sex. There are warming lubricants that help you and your partner awaken passion faster and experience new sensations. Lubricant will also add variety to the process of petting and masturbation, give it a try!

Alright, we’ll try it. Which lubricant is better?

What suits you specifically depends on your goals and preferences. The main difference between lubricants is in the base used:

  • Oil-based — soft, gentle, and quickly absorbed. They are good for massage, and there are even "two in one" options: massage oil and lubricant. But they are incompatible with condoms, leave stains on clothing and bed linen. They are best used for intimate touches and male masturbation.
  • Water-based — the most common type. They are easily available in pharmacies, inexpensive, and convenient. There are a multitude of application options for water-based lubricants: vaginal, oral, anal sex, and the use of sex toys. However, this lubricant dries out or absorbs quite quickly, so you need to regularly add a new portion.
  • Silicone lubricants — the most modern type. They do not dry out quickly, do not wash away with water. They are more expensive and usually sold in adult stores (if you are shy about going to a sex shop, you can order products online). Silicone lubricants in spray form are very convenient. Not all of them are suitable for use with condoms and sex toys, so be sure to read the instructions before purchasing. They do not wash out well from linens and clothing.

Also, lubricants differ in purpose:

  • For anal sex there are specifically designed lubricants with a local anesthetic (lidocaine or benzocaine) and components to relax the anal muscles.
  • For oral play flavored and scented water-based lubricants are used to mask the taste and smell of natural juices.
  • For love-making in the shower, hot tub, or pool, use silicone lubricants: they do not wash away with water.
  • For sex marathons stock up on silicone lubricant. And lubricants with a prolonging effect will help you stay in action longer by reducing sensitivity in the penis.
  • For additional protection against unwanted pregnancy use spermicide lubricants. They reduce sperm activity. Be sure to read the instructions on how to use this lubricant properly: it usually cannot be washed away for up to six hours after intercourse. It is better not to use such lubricants as a replacement for condoms and other barrier contraceptives, especially with casual partners. Contraceptive lubricants will not protect against sexually transmitted diseases.
  • For healing wounds and microcracks choose antibacterial lubricants (with silver ions, aloe vera extract, panthenol).
  • For latex sex gadgets (vibrators, anal plugs, masturbators) choose water-based lubricant: silicone may damage the toy.

Can oil, cream, or even petroleum jelly be used instead of lubricant?

No. All of these products are not intended for use on mucous membranes and disrupt the acidic environment of the vagina. Due to the change in pH, the functioning of protective mechanisms worsens, which can lead to the development of infections.

How to use lubricant correctly?

Follow the instructions. Usually, you need to apply lubricant to the genitals before sex and add more as needed. After intercourse, wash it off. Water-based lubricant easily washes off with water, while silicone can be removed using intimate hygiene soap.

Is it suitable for everyone?

There can be individual allergic reactions to some components, for example, to essential oils in the lubricant. Read the composition before purchasing, especially if you have a predisposition to skin allergies.

Before using a new product, test it: apply it to your wrist and wait 20 minutes. If there is no reaction, you can safely use this lubricant. Each partner should conduct the test.

If you have an intolerance to lidocaine, anesthetic lubricants should not be used.

Glycerin in some lubricants can lead to flare-ups of yeast infections.