Lube 101: Types of Lube and When to Use Them
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Curious about when lubricant is used during sex, and what types are available on the market? Read this article to find out!
Lubricant in general is any substance that helps reduce friction.
However, Personal Lubricants (also known as lubes) are often used to reduce the friction on your own “parts” to make sex and masturbation irritation-free, by making these activities easier and more enjoyable.
However, not all lubes are compatible with things like condoms and vibrators, so here's a more comprehensive guide!
Let’s begin with the basics: water, silicone, hybrid, and oil lubes
Personal lubricants can come in liquid and gel forms, and each formula has a base ingredient that accounts for its unique texture. Let’s take a look at the three main lube bases and what they mean for you:
1. Water-Based Lubricant
Water-based lubricants are the most common type of lube.
Because they’re water-based, they’re easy to clean up (and to wash out of clothing or sheets). And, since pure water is about the most natural ingredient out there, these lubes can also be very gentle and soothing to your skin. Make sure to look for one that says "Glycerin-free" and "Paraben-free" to minimize risk of irritations!
Water-based lubes are also compatible with condoms, and with silicone toys. They're a great starter lube, with the only drawback being that since they are primarily water, they dry up a little faster - meaning you may have to reapply more often.
Find more Water-based lubricants at the Art of Loving HERE
2. Silicone-Based Lubricant
Silicone is a material made from alternate chains of silicone (a natural element) and oxygen atoms.
Silicone lubricants have a very unique, silky feel that is soothing to the skin and leaves it feeling soft and smooth. Silicone is also hypoallergenic, so it’s a great choice for lube users with sensitive skin or allergies. And since these lubes contain mostly silicone instead of water, they often last longer and need to be reapplied less often.
Due to the fact they don't wash away in water, silicone lubes are a great choice to use during water or shower play!
However, it is important to note that silicone lubes can NOT be used with silicone toys, as they will degrade the material.
If you're looking for a lube to use with your silicone toys without drying out as quickly, look for those labelled "Hybrid lubricant". Most are primarily water-based, but there is also a little bit of silicone to keep things more slippery and wet longer. However, it's not enough to damage your silicone toys, so go wild!
Find more Silicone-based and Hybrid lubricants at the Art of Loving HERE
3. Oil-based lubricant
Oil-based lubricants are usually made from natural plant oils and other sources,and offer longer-lasting lubrication compared to water-based alternatives.
Organic coconut oil is very popular oil-based lubricant, and is a great choice for anal play due to its long-lasting slipperiness.
However, do NOT use oil-based lubes with condoms, as they can degrade the latex and make condoms ineffective!
Find more Oil-based lubricants at the Art of Loving HERE
Lube up safely and have fun!