Lubricants
Lubricants
What do lubricants do?
Lubricants, which are also called personal lubricants or lube, are substances that are used to make sexual activities like vaginal or anal sex, masturbation, and using sex toys less painful. In order to make sexual activities more easy and enjoyable, they are usually put on the genitalia or the surface of sex toys.
What kinds of lubrication are there?
There are different kinds of lubricants, and each has its own features and ingredients:
1. Water-Based Lubricants: These are the most popular type and can be used with both condoms and sex toys. They don't leave stains, and they are easy to clean. They also work with most materials. While they may dry faster than other types, they may need to be used again.
2. Silicone-Based Lubricants: The recipe for silicone-based lubricants lasts longer and makes things feel smooth and slick. Even though they are safe to use with condoms, they might not work with plastic sex toys. This type of lube is waterproof, so it's great for play in the shower or bath.
3. Oil-Based Lubricants: Coconut oil, mineral oil, and other oil-based lubricants give a smooth, long-lasting glide and are safe for massage and other private activities. But they don't work with rubber condoms and can make them weaker, which makes them more likely to break.
4. Hybrid Lubricants: These lubes take the best parts of both water-based and silicone-based lubes and use them together. They look good, last a long time, and are safe to use with most sex toys and condoms.
How do I pick the right lubricant?
Picking the right lube depends on your personal taste, how sensitive you are, and the type of sexual activity you're doing:
- Water-based lubricants are great for most people, but they're especially good for people with sensitive skin or rubber allergies. They're safe to use with condoms and plastic sex toys and are easy to clean.
- Silicone-based lubricants are great for play in the shower or bath that lasts a long time.
To keep them from breaking, don't use them with plastic sex toys, though.
- Oil-based lubricants work best for massage and condoms that aren't made of rubber. Do not use them with silicone sex toys or rubber condoms.
- Hybrid lubricants: These have the good things about both water-based and silicone-based lubes.
It works with most condoms and sex toys and can be used for a variety of sexual practices.
When you use oils, is it safe?
Lubricants are usually safe and can improve sexual pleasure and comfort when they are used properly. You should make sure that the lube you choose works with condoms and sex toys, though, especially if you want to use them for safer sex.
People with certain allergies or sensitivities should also choose unscented or fragrance-free lubricants to lower their risk of discomfort or allergic reactions. If using lubricants makes you feel bad or gives you an allergic response, stop using them and talk to a doctor or nurse.
Compatibility: Make sure the lube works with condoms, sex toys, and other items to keep them from getting damaged or losing their usefulness.
- To avoid getting infections or STDs, don't share lube with other people in your sexual relationship. Using single packs or pitchers can lower the chance of getting something dirty.
Cleaning: Keep lube bottles or containers clean and stored properly to keep them germ-free and stop germs from growing.
Not feeling well: If you feel any pain, burning, itching, or strange responses while using lubricants, stop using them right away and see a doctor if you need to.
How should oils be put on and taken off?
To get the most out of lubricants:
1. Use: Before getting physical, put a little lube on your genitalia or the surface of your sex toys. Start with a small amount and add more if needed to get the level of lube you want.
2. Reapplication: If the lube starts to dry out during the sexual act, reapply as needed to keep things comfortable and cut down on friction.
3. Clean the genital area or sex toys with warm water and light soap after using them to get rid of any fluid that might still be there. Lubricants that are based on oil may need extra cleaning to be completely removed.
4. Store: Keep lubricants in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight and heat to keep them from breaking down or changing structure.