August 31, 2022

Lube Up: Why you should absolutely be using lube and the different types for all escapades

By Cam Fraser, Lovehoney Sexologist

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Contrary to popular misconceptions, lube is for everyone, not just people whose bodies are struggling to produce natural lubrication. Even if you feel that your body is doing a great job without any assistance, you might be missing out on a whole lot of extra pleasure without knowing it.

It’s a common misconception that just because you may be dry, doesn’t mean you are not enjoying yourself with a partner. Vaginal dryness during sex is common and can happen for many different reasons, including your hormone levels, where you are in your menstrual cycle, how stressed you are, and what medication you’re on.

Needing an additional lubricant is not a sort of personal failure. The natural lubrication levels of the penis can also vary, and dryness in anyone is absolutely nothing to be embarrassed about.

Here’s the part I don’t get: If a lubricant makes sex feel better, why not use it?

Lube is a great product that amps and heats things up in or out of the bedroom for better pleasure all around.

On top of that, since the anus does not self-lubricate, lube is an absolute must for all anal adventures. The sexual happiness people at Lovehoney have a range of lubricants so you can slip into action.

But which is the best lube for you? Did you know that you should never use silicone lube with a silicone sex toy? Or that water-based lubes won’t work in the shower? Don’t worry – here’s the low down on lube.

What can II use as lube?

Sexual lubricants are nothing even remotely new. They couldn’t always be purchased in stores, but for as long as people have been having genital sex, people have used all manner of things as a sexual lubricant: butter, oils, honey, saliva, animal fats and guts–you name it, if it’s slippery, it’s probably been used as a lube.

You should always prioritise using specially-formulated sex lubricant for your erotic escapades since it’ll be safe for your body. There are many different types of lube, each ideal for different types of play.

Which lube isis right for you?

Water-based lube is the best all-rounder, it’s light, natural feel is perfect and safe for all sex acts and sex toys. Although, if you’re a sucker for a shower or bath session, water-based lube isn’t ideal as it’ll wash right off. Most water-based lubricants are also condom-safe, but be sure to check the label. It’s also great for those with sensitive skin.

Silicone lube’s biggest draw is that it’s waterproof. That means it can join you in the shower or bath for fun with your favourite waterproof toys, or for underwater adventures with a lover.A little silicone lube goes a long way, and you shouldn’t need to constantly re-apply it. Since it’s more long-lasting than water-based lube, you’ll use less, which means a bottle of it should last longer than a water-based one of equal size.

Silicone lubricant is great for many things, but it shouldn’t be used with silicone sex toys or realistic feel sex toys. This is because the silicone in your lubricant and the silicone or real-feel material of your toy may not be compatible. 

Flavoured lube is ideal for adding a little something extra sweet to oral sex and foreplay. Available in a range of flavours from fruity-fresh to decadently rich, flavoured lube will be compatible with the same-sex acts and toys as its base material.

Anal lube, is a must for all anal adventures, whether you’re trying anal for the first time or are an experienced player! As it’s extra thick it provides a longer-lasting, cushioned glide during anal sex and anal play. It can have a different base material, though they’re most often made from water or silicone bases.

Organic lube is becoming more popular all the time, especially for those concerned with the environment, who want natural products, and those with sensitive bodies. Since formulas can vary, it’s important to always check the label of your organic lube to see if it’s suitable for the sex act you’re hoping to enjoy.

Warming lube and tingling lube are a quick and easy way to spice up your sex life, all designed to awaken nerve-endings and enhance response to touch. Before using a tingling or warming lube on your most sensitive areas, try a little on the inside of your lip to get a sense of how powerful its stimulation is.

It’s a fact that people who use lubricant have better sex – not only does the slippery stuff ease penetration, it also makes external play much more enjoyable.