Creating a blog about vaginal lubricants seemed like a simple project but after researching the subject I was amazed by what I found. First of all READ THE LABELS! If you care about what you place into your body, you should be just as concerned about what you place onto your vagina.
What to avoid:
- Avoid Petroleum based products.
- Avoid products on the market that have irritants in them such as: glycerin, propene glycol and parabens.
- Avoid water based products that don’t have a natural ph of 3.5 to 4.5.
- Avoid products that have a high osmolality, the goal is 350 to 1200 mOsm/kg.
Irritants, non-natural ph values and high osmolality can cause increased bacterial infections in the vagina and can cause cell death.
For a list of products naming their osmolality and PH values, (for example the popular product KY Jelly has high osmolality and parabens), see:
Onward to a summary of differnt types of lubricants:
Water Based Lube
Water based lubes are the most common lube types to find. Many prefer them, as they are easy to clean off clothes and bedding as well as safe to use with barriers and condoms. They are often the most gentle lube types and are available in many different formulas like gels, creams, and liquids. They are compatable with any sex toy.
What to look for:
- First ingredient is water or aloe, if glycerin is present AVOID!
- It can feel cool to the skin and may get a little sticky after a while.
- Most commonly used.
- Offers the most variety, including flavors, warming, stimulating and natural.
Silicone Based Lube
Silicone is a natural element that is hypoallergenic by nature. It lasts longer than water-based lube so there is less need to reapply during sex. If you are looking to enjoy some playtime in water, like shower or bath, silicone lube is the way to go. IMPORTANT: Most silicone based lube is not compatable with latex condoms.
What to look for:
- Ingredients that end in “ol” or “cone” like, dimethicone or dimethiconol. Also ingredients like cyclopentasiloxane.
- Never feels sticky.
- Creates long lasting glide.
- Great to use in the water (tub, shower, pool).
- DO NOT USE with Silicone devices.
- Hydrates, protects and traps moisture in the skin.
Hybrid Based Lube
Hybrid lubes are a mixture of water and silicone based and often have creamy textures comparable to the body’s natural fluids. However, because they still do contain silicone, they ARE NOT to be used with condoms, barriers and silicone devices.
What to look for:
- Water-based lubricant with silicone ingredient such as, dimethicone. It is usually visually white or creamy looking.
- Feels slippery, but think enough to feel sensation.
- A unique water-based lube that does not feel sticky.
- Leaves skin feeling silky smooth when dry.
- Often hydrates, protects and traps moisture in the skin.
- Not recommended for use with most silicone devices.
Plant Based Lube
These can be gel or liquid and contain a blend of plant-based derivatives instead of silicone polymers.
What to look for:
- Provides smooth glide and feels very silky.
- Some may contain a natural form of glycerin that is derived from vegetable oil or plant based cellulose.
- May contain aloe for its healing and moisturizing properties.
- Many formulas are certified organic, which appeals to many customers.
- Most formulas are compatible with all toy materials. Be sure to check your device label prior to lube use.
Now for MY OPINION, unless you are playing with toys or using condoms just open your pantry and use the most natural products out there: OLIVE OIL or COCONUT OIL. Both are edible and inexpensive.
Neither one increases bacterial count, kills cells or irritates the skin. Coconut oil has been studied to be antibacterial and antifungal. Both are moisturizing, and olive oil can even be used for those trying for pregnancy.
So in closing, pay attention to the ingredients of the various lubricants on the market.