How To Choose a Water-Based Lubricant That’s Body-Safe, Effective, and Feels Good

Written by
water droplets representing water-based lubricant

Exsens

Published on
July 09, 2025

To find a personal lubricant that's body-safe, effective, and feels good, you need to know what to look for. That's where we come in! At EXSENS, we want you to love well and live well, whether you're enjoying intimate moments with a partner or practicing solo self-care.

So, we're here to help you choose a high-quality lube with an easy glide—oops, we mean an easy guide! (But hey, both are true!) Keep reading to find the best choice for your sexual wellness.

Choosing the Right Personal Lubricant

One of the most popular options is a water-based lubricant. These lubes are safe to use with condoms and are very easy to clean. They're less likely to cause irritation compared to oil-based or silicone-based options because they're designed to mimic the body's natural moisture. This makes them ideal for sensitive areas and everyday use. Plus, they don't break down silicone sex toys. Needless to say, water-based products are always a safe choice!

Silicone-based lubricants typically last longer and are great for shower play. But the consistency can be more difficult to wash off and could degrade silicone toys.

Oil-based lubes (like coconut oil or petroleum jelly) can feel nourishing, and they offer an easy glide. But one major downside is that the formulation could potentially disrupt vaginal pH and increase the risk of infection. They're also not compatible with latex condoms. 

Clearly, there are pros and cons for each product. However, for most, a water-based lube is the safest and most versatile choice, as long as it is well-formulated and of high quality.

Factors To Consider When Choosing a High-Quality Lubricant

Ingredients

To find a personal lubricant that's body-safe, effective, and feels good, you need to know what to look for. That's where we come in! At EXSENS , we want you to love well and live well, whether you're enjoying intimate moments with a partner or practicing solo self-care.

So, we're here to help you choose a high-quality lube with an easy glide—oops, we mean an easy guide! (But hey, both are true!) Keep reading to find the best choice for your sexual wellness.

Choosing the Right Personal Lubricant

Liquid bubbles to represent water-based lubricant

One of the most popular options is a water-based lubricant. These lubes are safe to use with condoms and are very easy to clean. They're less likely to cause irritation compared to oil-based or silicone-based options because they're designed to mimic the body's natural moisture. This makes them ideal for sensitive areas and everyday use. Plus, they don't break down silicone sex toys. Needless to say, water-based products are always a safe choice!

Silicone-based lubricants typically last longer and are great for shower play. But the consistency can be more difficult to wash off and could degrade silicone toys.

Oil-based lubes (like coconut oil or petroleum jelly) can feel nourishing, and they offer an easy glide. But one major downside is that the formulation could potentially disrupt vaginal pH and increase the risk of infection. They're also not compatible with latex condoms. 

Clearly, there are pros and cons for each product. However, for most, a water-based lube is the safest and most versatile choice, as long as it is well-formulated and of high quality.

Factors To Consider When Choosing a High-Quality Lubricant

Ingredients

Plant to present organic, plant-based ingredients used in water-based lubricant

Many commercial lubricants contain synthetic additives, artificial fragrances, and parabens that can cause irritation or disrupt your natural flora. What you put on your skin matters, especially in intimate areas. Therefore, it is essential to check the ingredient list to ensure you're using a body-safe formula. Look at the labels and ensure that you aren't using a product with harmful ingredients, such as glycerin, synthetic fragrances, and harsh preservatives, which can cause dryness, irritation, or yeast infections.

At EXSENS, we take your health very seriously. So, our vegan lubes are made with plant-based ingredients. The products we offer are paraben-free, GMO-free, and FDA-cleared. They're also crafted in our advanced cosmetics facility in Aix-en-Provence, France, where we've been perfecting intimate wellness for over a decade.

pH Balance

Different parts of the body have varying pH levels. A personal lubricant that's too alkaline can throw off your body's balance, leading to discomfort or infections. Choose a water-based lubricant that is pH-matched to support healthy vaginal flora. All EXSENS lubricants are formulated to respect and support your natural pH, ensuring comfort with every use.

Viscosity and Texture

Lubricants come in a variety of textures, ranging from lightweight and slippery to thick and gel-like. The right liquid viscosity depends on how you plan to use it. A thinner lube may be perfect for a more natural feel or for toy use, while a thicker gel might be best for longer-lasting glide during sexual intercourse.

EXSENS Pure Aqua Water-Based Lubricant offers a slippery-smooth and non-greasy texture. We highly recommend selecting a high-quality lubricant that feels most comfortable on your body.

Sensitivity and Hypoallergenic Options

If you have sensitive skin or a history of reactions to personal care products, look for hypoallergenic lubes that are free from common irritants. Our vegan lube formulas are crafted with sensitivity in mind. There are no harsh chemicals, no artificial colors, and no unnecessary fillers. You just get clean, effective hydration with a formula that's allergy-friendly!

Flavor and Scent Options

Flavored and scented personal lubricants can be a fun and playful addition. They're perfect for spicing up oral sex or foreplay. If you choose a flavored option, opt for one that uses natural flavoring agents and has been dermatologically tested for safe sex.

You'll be glad to know that EXSENS flavored lubes are body-safe, certified vegan, GMO-free, and designed to level up intimacy without disrupting your body's balance. You can explore our collection of lubricants , featuring flavors like Appletini, Raspberry, and Aloe Vera.

Testing for Effectiveness and Feel

Everyone's body is different, which means everyone will have a different ideal lubricant. The best way for you to find your perfect match is to test different products in low-pressure settings. Here's how:

  1. Start with a small patch test on your inner wrist or thigh.
  2. Wait 24 hours to check for any skin irritation.
  3. Try the product during various types of intimacy (solo, partner play, toy use) to assess how it performs and feels.
  4. Take note of how long it lasts, how easy it is to clean, and whether it improves or distracts from the experience.
  5. You can also consider taste, efficacy, and how well it hydrates intimate areas or minimizes friction.

With these steps, you'll quickly learn what you like and don't like.

Why You Should Use Water-Based Lubricants

Water-based lubricant in a bottle lit up against a purple background

There are many reasons why we think you should make water-based lubricants your go-to product:

  • Safe to use with latex condoms and silicone toys
  • Easy to wash off with water
  • Gentle on sensitive skin
  • Less likely to clog pores or disrupt natural flora
  • Widely available in vegan and pH-balanced formulas

A high-quality water-based lube from EXSENS improves comfort and can help prevent microtears and post-play irritation. Plus, it would make a great addition to your sexual care routine!

Discover Mindful Intimacy With EXSENS Products

Choosing the right lube is a key step toward better sexual wellness. If you're searching for natural ingredients and pH-balanced formulas, EXSENS is proud to offer a collection that prioritizes your comfort, health, and pleasure.

Our products are flavored, hypoallergenic, and gentle enough for everyday use. You can explore our full collection of intimate care products and discover what mindful intimacy can feel like by checking out the rest of our sexual wellness products today.

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Frequently Asked Questions – Personal Lubricants

What makes a lube “vegan?”

Vegan lubricant is made without any animal-derived ingredients and is never tested on animals. Brands like EXSENS go a step further. We use plant-based, sustainable components that are also free from parabens, GMOs, and other harsh chemicals.

Is EXSENS personal lubricant safe to use?

Yes! In fact, our formula is approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Just make sure to test it on a patch of your skin as you would with any other product.

Is it okay for me to consume water-based lubricants?

We can't speak for all brands, but ours is totally edible. Do what you will with that information, and have fun!

Will water-based lube stain my sheets?

Nope! This is part of the reason we swear by water-based formulas. They're less likely to stain compared to oil and silicone options. If you're concerned about it, you can test a drop or two on your sheets or use a towel during intimacy.

What's the best way to store lube?

It's essential to store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Also, ensure the cap is always tightly closed to maintain a better shelf life.

Is it okay to use lubricant during pregnancy?

In most cases, it's totally fine to use a body-safe lube. You can always consult your healthcare provider if you have any specific concerns.