Lube Lessons 2: How Do I Know Which Lube to Use?

By:  Rebecca Pinette-Dorin 

A GUIDE TO PICKING THE PERFECT PERSONAL LUBRICANT FOR ANY SITUATION

When it comes to intimate lubricants, there are so many “fish in the sea”, it’s hard to know how to choose the lube that’s right for you. Hopefully, our friendly guide will put you on the right path to lubricant bliss!

Step 1: Pick the Right Lube for the Job

Ask yourself … what will you be using your lube for? Different lubes are good for different things. The first step to choosing the right lubricant is to make sure you are selecting a lube that is right for your particular situation. 

Here are some common uses for personal lubricants. Which ones apply to you?

1. VAGINAL DRYNESS

Vaginal and vulva dryness, which can result in soreness, itching or discomfort, can happen to any woman, for a variety of reasons (menopause, diabetes, medication, etc.). It is nothing of which to be nervous or ashamed. Many women find that rubbing a small amount of pH balanced water-based lubricant into their vulva helps immensely. Choose one with aloe vera for an extra soothing effect. Or try a natural option like a combination of raw organic coconut oil and shea butter. 

If you are suffering from vaginal dryness, having sex can be painful and frankly, no fun at all. Using a personal lubricant can also help make sex pleasurable again!

2. VAGINAL SEX

Even if you have no trouble with natural lubrication, using a nice water based lubricant during vaginal sex can take everything to the next level! Applying lubricant with a partner can increase intimacy and make everything just a little more slippery and sexy. Lube just makes everything better!

3. ANAL SEX

Lubricant is non-negotiable when it comes to anal sex! Without lubricant to ease the way, delicate colon tissues might get hurt, and the experience risks being a very painful one. A water-based lube might do in a pinch, but we suggest using a high-quality silicone lubricant instead. (Uberlube is our personal favorite!) Silicone lubricants do not absorb into the skin and last longer than water-based or oil-based lubes.

4. SEX TOYS

Most sex toys these days are silicone, and using a silicone-based lubricant with them could lead to a rather unpleasant chemical reaction. (They will bond together, and it will be gross!) The best idea is to use a water-based lubricant with your silicone vibrator or dildo. If you are using a glass sex toy or a metal sex toy (like the amazing Njoy pure wand!) you could definitely opt for an oil or silicone-based lube. When in doubt, however, stick with water-based.

5. HAND JOBS

If you’re giving a hand job (or getting one!), the very best and most sensual choice is a nice slippery oil. We suggest picking something soft and sensual like EXSENS Organic Coco Shea Oil from our line of vegan, paraben-free body care. You’ll love the delicious all-natural scent, the velvety-soft feel, and the bonus soothing hydration that leaves your skin so, so soft!

6. ORAL SEX

Ok, so you don’t really need a lubricant for oral sex, but a flavored lube can definitely add lots of fun to your intimate foreplay! Also, let’s face it, usually when you’re licking, you’re touching too, so why not add a little slippery, flavored fun?

7. SAFE SEX

Safe sex is the best sex! And if you’re using a condom or latex panties (like Lorals) you need to be sure you are not using any kind of petroleum or oil-based lubricant. Oil and petroleum-based lubricants break down latex, making it tear and deteriorate until you are no longer protected. Always make sure to use a latex-safe, water-based lubricant with condoms! 


STEP 2: Picking the Perfect Lube for Your Body

Shop EXSENS Paraben Free, GMO Free, Vegan Lubricants!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Rebecca Pinette-Dorin is a writer, activist, business-woman and educator who has been working in the sex industry since 2004. Currently, she is the North-American Brand Manager for EXSENS.