Slippery, soft, and lots of fun to use, lube is one of the best ways to enhance sexual pleasure and comfort. Yet, despite its significant benefits, the topic of lube often goes unaddressed, surrounded by misconceptions and, sometimes, embarrassment.
The truth is, sex lube is a game-changer for solo-play, foreplay and full-on sex and should be discussed more openly. Not only does it ease friction but also intensifies sensations which is what it’s all about at the end of the day.
There’s a vast world of lubricants, so here in our guide to lube we’ll show you the different types available and help you make the right choice for your needs. Whether you're curious about your options or looking for something new to enhance your experience, this sex lube guide will help you decide which lube is best for you, whatever you need it for.
So, let's dive in and discover how a little lube can make a big difference in your sex life.
Why Use Lube?
Lube is way more than just a slick accessory – it's essential to enhance sexual pleasure and comfort. Here are a few reasons why:
- Enhanced Pleasure – Lube smooths the way for more enjoyable sensations, making every touch and movement feel better.
- Reduced Friction – It helps prevent discomfort and irritation during sex by reducing friction, making for a smoother experience.
- Condom Safety – Lube can help reduce the risk of condom breakage by decreasing friction that can weaken the condom's material.
- Versatility – Suitable for a variety of sexual activities, lube can enhance vaginal intercourse, anal sex, masturbation, and the use of adult sex toys.
Needing lube doesn't mean you're not aroused enough. Many factors can affect natural lubrication, and using lube is a way to ensure both safety and pleasure, regardless of these conditions. In short, lube can improve the quality of sexual experiences, proving its worth as a must-have product in your bedroom.
Guide To Lube – The Different Types
Understanding the different types of lubricants can help you choose the best one for your needs. Here’s all you need to know:
Water-Based Lube
Pros:
- Compatibility: Safe with all types of condoms and sex toys, making it the most versatile option.
- Ease of Clean-Up: Easily washes off with water, leaving no residue.
- Skin-Safe: Generally good for sensitive skin, with minimal risk of irritation.
Cons:
- Reapplication Needed: Tends to dry out with prolonged use, requiring frequent reapplication.
- Variability in Quality: Not all water-based lubes are created equal; some may feel sticky or tacky as they dry.
Silicone-Based Lube
Pros:
- Long-Lasting: Does not dry out easily, offering prolonged lubrication without the need for reapplication.
- Waterproof: Perfect for sexual activities in the shower, bath, or swimming pool.
- Silky Texture: Provides a smooth, silky feel that enhances pleasure.
Cons:
- Not Toy-Friendly: Can degrade silicone-based sex toys over time such as silicone dildos or silicone sex dolls.
- Difficult to Clean: Requires more effort to wash off the skin and can possibly stain certain fabrics.
Oil-Based Lube
Pros:
- Natural Feel: Offers a thick, cushiony texture that many find to mimic natural lubrication closely.
- Durability: Excellent for long-lasting lubrication without drying out.
Cons:
- Condom Compatibility: Can deteriorate latex condoms, increasing the risk of breakage.
- Potential for Infection: Some oils can increase the risk of yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis.
Hybrid Lube
Pros:
- Balanced Features: Combines the longevity of silicone-based lubes with the easy cleanup of water-based formulas.
- Versatile Use: Good for a wide range of activities and compatible with most toys and condoms.
Cons:
- Ingredient Check: It's important to read labels to ensure the hybrid lube is compatible with all your sex toys and doesn't contain any irritants.
When choosing a lubricant, consider the type of sexual activity you'll be engaging in, any known allergies or sensitivities, and whether you'll be using condoms or sex toys.
- Water-based lubes are a great all-rounder, especially for those with sensitive skin or who are unsure about compatibility issues.
- Silicone-based lubes offer enduring slickness, making them ideal for water play and lengthy sessions, especially anal play.
- Oil-based lubes provide a natural, long-lasting effect but require careful selection to avoid health and compatibility issues.
- Hybrid lubes provide a middle ground, offering the benefits of both water and silicone-based lubes, but always check the ingredients for safety with your specific uses in mind.
What About Specialised Lubricants?
In addition to the basic types, there are plenty of specialised lubricants designed to enhance sexual experiences further. Here's what to look out for:
Warming and Cooling Lubricants
- What They Do: Also known as warming and tingling lubes, they create sensations of warmth or coolness, adding a unique sensory experience to sexual activities.
- Considerations: Test on a small skin area first to ensure the sensation is pleasant and not irritating for you or your partner.
Flavoured Lubricants
- Purpose: Flavoured lubricants are designed to make oral sex more enjoyable with a variety of flavours, whether you like the fruitiness of Strawberry to cool mint.
- Key Point: Ensure they are sugar-free to prevent yeast infections.
Desensitising/Delay Lubricants
- Use: These delay sprays contain mild anaesthetics like benzocaine to reduce sensation, potentially prolonging sexual activity.
- Caution: Overuse can lead to insufficient sensation, making it hard to know if you're causing or receiving any physical damage. Communication and careful use are paramount.
Fisting Lubricants
- Designed For: Fisting lube is ideal for high-intensity activities like fisting, requiring thick, long-lasting lubrication for safety and comfort.
- Attributes: Typically thicker and more durable than standard lubes, providing cushion and reducing friction to a minimum.
Anal Lubricants
- Specifics: Tailored for anal sex, these anal lubes and relaxants are thicker to provide a comfortable cushioning layer and ensure sustained lubrication, as the anus does not naturally lubricate.
- Features: May contain ingredients that help relax the anal muscles without desensitising, enhancing comfort without compromising safety.
How To Choose the Right Lube?
Selecting the perfect lube isn't just about whether it’s water-based or silicone. Consider these factors for a safe and pleasurable experience:
Intended Use
- Sexual Activity: Vaginal, anal, and oral sex may have different lubrication needs.
- Toys: Ensure the lube is compatible with the material of your toys to avoid damage.
Personal Health
- Allergies: Look for hypoallergenic options if you have sensitive skin – you can choose lube for sensitive skin.
- Infections: Certain ingredients in lubes can exacerbate or contribute to yeast infections or UTIs. Choose specialised female lubrication.
Preferences
- Texture and Consistency: Some prefer a thicker lube for anal sex, while others may want a thinner consistency for vaginal sex.
- Longevity: Consider how often you're willing to reapply if you opt for a water-based lube.
Safety and Cleanliness
- Ingredients: Paraben-free, glycerin-free, and natural options are available for those concerned about chemicals.
- Cleanup – Think about how easy it is to wash off the lube after use, especially if you have sensitive skin or are prone to infections.
Patch Test
- Allergic Reactions: Try a small amount on your skin before full use to ensure there's no adverse reaction.
By considering these factors, you can narrow down the vast selection to find a lubricant that suits your needs perfectly, enhancing both safety and pleasure in your sexual adventures.
How to Use Lube During Sex Effectively
Now that you have a good idea which lube to go for depending on the situation, you’ll more than likely want to know how to have sex with lube and how much lube to use during sex – well, the good news is it’s very simple to apply and start using ASAP.
Application Tips
- Start with a Small Amount: You can always add more if needed. Too much lube right away might make things too slippery and reduce sensation.
- Apply to the Right Areas: For penetrative sex, apply lube to both the receiving part of the body and the object or body part being inserted. For masturbation or toy play, apply lube directly to the genitals and the toy.
- Warm It Up: Rubbing the lube between your hands before application can warm it up to body temperature, making the experience more comfortable and enjoyable.
Reapplication is Key
- Water-Based Lubes: These may need to be reapplied during long sessions, as they can dry out. Keep it handy.
- Silicone and Oil-Based Lubes: Though they last longer, you might still need to reapply in lengthy encounters or if the lube spreads out of the intended area.
Incorporating Lube into Foreplay
- Enhance the Experience: Applying lube can be integrated into foreplay, enhancing the connection between partners. Consider mutual application as part of the build-up for added fun, and arousal.
Ready To Lube Up & Enjoy Yourself?
So, there we go, all you need to know about how to use sex lube and choose the perfect type every time. We’re sure you’ll never look back after using the products in our sex lube guide which have long played a crucial role in sex lives across the globe.
The good news is that you’re already in the right place to make your next encounter more pleasurable. Explore our selection of high-quality lubricants here at Mega Pleasure tailored to suit a wide range of preferences and needs. Whether you're looking for something to enhance solo play, enrich intimacy with a partner, or explore new territories in your sexual adventures, we have something for everyone.
For more insights, please check out our blog, where you can learn all about how to have a successful threesome, and what your sexual fantasies say about you.
