Types of lubricants

There are as many different lubricants as there are types of… shampoos. And just like with shampoos, each woman ends up with a favorite of hers that she feels committed to and that she believes is better than the rest.

So how do you find a perfect lube? Some things to consider when examining our suggestions are: consistency and texture, ingredients, aromas, and flavors.

Consistency and texture:

Lubricants come in a variety of textures ranging from more “runny” to more “creamy.” Patients seem to like the ones that stay liquid longer and often find that the creamy ones become sticky and “sticky” over time. Wet Platinum is clear, silicone-based, and silky, while Astroglide is a bit more runny. Liquid Silk is creamier, white in color and a bit thicker.

Lubricant Ingredients:

Lubes are usually labeled as water-based or silicone-based, which means they are made from different products and feel differently to the touch. They all help with lubrication, of course, but here are some facts to consider when choosing:

Water-Based – Safe for you, your toys, condoms, and sheets, water-based lubes are gentle and worry-free. A water-based lubricant may not provide enough lubrication for some types of soreness and dryness, and you may need to reapply it frequently because it absorbs into the skin. Some examples of these are System Jo Flavored Lube or Love Liquid

Silicone: There are many types of silicone products on the market. It can be considered a heavy-duty lubricant because, instead of absorbing into the skin like water-based lubricants, it coats the surface and provides a slippery feel that can make penetration easier and not cause pain. Because it covers, its lubricating benefits last longer than water-based products and often doesn’t need to be reapplied.

But avoid using silicone lubricants with sex toys, as silicone can practically melt the plastic that many toys are made of. If you like the feel and long-lasting benefits of silicone, use a condom with dildos or vibrators to prevent deterioration. Pleasure Potion and Wet Platinum are great options in the silicone category.

· Glycerin – If you are prone to yeast infections, you may want to stay away from lubricants that contain glycerin. While glycerin is included in many lubricants that are available at your local pharmacy, glycerin can contribute to the growth of yeast, which means it can cause recurrent yeast infections in women who are prone to yeast infections. Glycerin-containing lubricants are compatible with condoms, but may not be compatible with your vagina. Astra-Glide is a very good lubricant without glycerin and parabens.

· Paraben: Paraben is a preservative often used in lubricants to prevent bacterial growth; however, recent research has raised concerns about this additive. Some women may discover that they are allergic or have a reaction that causes irritation around the vulva. So if you want a lube with fewer chemicals, or find that typical lubes cause itchiness or irritation in your vulvar and vaginal area, you may want to try something paraben-free. Many products that are paraben-free are also glycerin-free, and fewer chemicals is always a good thing.

· Vaseline (Vasoline): Vaseline is not the best lubricant, although most of us have some on hand. For women, Vaseline has a hard time breaking down in the vagina. And never use petroleum jelly with a condom since latex condoms will eat away at the petroleum jelly.

Aromas and Flavors of Lubricants:

Flavored lubricants can be a fun way to enhance your love life. Many really fine lubricants now come in flavors. They come in all kinds of nifty flavors like pina colada and orange mango, as well as the good oldies like chocolate, cherry, and vanilla! There are also many that are flavorless but have a desirable aroma. Have fun!