Couple on bed

Ultimate Guide for healthy sex- How to Use Lube

By #LubeLife Team   |   August 26, 2020   

As cliché as it sounds, when it comes to sex the wetter it is, the better for all parties involved. One of the best ways to ensure that you stay wet for longer is by purchasing a personal lubricant. Created for different occasions and desires, the uses of lube make them a perfect bedroom companion. From water-based to anal lubes, these small, clear bottles pack a major punch when it matters most. 

For women who suffer from vaginal dryness, lubricants have become their saving grace. With a few drops of a sex lubricant, you can experience less friction, leading to a better experience. According to a 2019 survey based on the U.S. Census Data and Simmons National Consumer Survey, approximately 49 million Americans used personal lubricants.

 

With the end goal being amazing sex, lubricants are there to make every part of that process as enjoyable as possible. 

To get the most out of your lubricant experience, here is a play by play on all things lube. 

What Lube is Right For Me? 

Man thinking about lube

When you’re first getting into the world of lubricants, it can be very overwhelming trying to choose between the thousands of brands out there. Lubricants can be split into three major categories: 

  • Water 
  • Silicone 
  • Oil 

There are hybrid lubricants that combine elements of two or more but those are few and far between. 

Water-Based Lubricants: The Anytime Lube 

Woman holding condom and lube

Known for its versatility, water-based personal lubricants are a perfect way to get introduced to the world of lubes. Whether looking for extra slipperiness or something to use with silicone sex toys, water-based lubes have the advantage of being both sturdy and gentle at the same time. Water-based lubricants are also safe to use with both latex and non-latex condoms. By using this type of lubricant, the risk of condom breakage decreases and so does the chance of contracting a possible STD or infection.  

According to various surveys, 65% of women have admitted to using a personal lubricant in the previous two months. With water-based lubes being the most common and popular choice, you can infer that a large percentage of women are using these lubes to help enhance their sexual experiences.

65% of women use personal lube

Depending on the water-based lubricant you choose, it can also be great for sensitive skin. When deciding on a lubricant, you want to pay special attention to the ingredients. A little later, we’ll touch on some “avoid at all cost ingredients”.  

#LubeLife has a water-based lube that is an excellent source of moisture and made for sensitive use. With its base of natural ingredients, your private parts will be safe. 

Silicone-Based Lubricants: The Long-lasting Lube 

Guys greeting each other

If you’re looking for a personal lubricant that is long-lasting and great on sensitive skin, silicone-based lubes are right for you. Silicone is hypoallergenic meaning that most people will not experience any kind of reaction. There are outliers to everything but on the whole, hypoallergenic products tend to be forgiving on the skin. Thicker than water-based lubricants, silicone lubes are sturdy while still providing enough smoothness for sexual activity. 

If you’re looking to engage in some shower or water sex, silicone lubes are a perfect choice. Having a thick consistency means that while running water washes away everything else, you’ll still have the support you need. Its consistency also makes it a great anal lube. 

One downside of silicone-based lubes is that they can deteriorate the surface of silicone toys. Although that may sound odd, silicone lubricants create small abrasions in toys. These abrasions then house bacteria, making the toy less sanitary. 

Although picking a silicone-based lube can be difficult, #LubeLife has one that is made from natural materials and proven to be long-lasting. 

Oil-based lubricants: Slippery Fun 

Two girls posing for picture

Oil-based lubricants are for people who like to apply once and not think about it again until the deed is done. 

Oil-based lubes are slippery and thick. If you’ve ever touched olive oil, its consistency aligns with what you can expect from oil lubricants. Because of its thicker consistency, oil lubes tend to last for a long time. 

Oil-based lubricants are most associated with infections so we do not recommend using it unless you’re a major risk-taker. Another downside of oil-based lubes is that they can stain and damage your sheets. Unless you’re in the mood to make continuous trips to Marshalls, leave oil to your outdoor adventures. 

One last downside to oil-based lubes is that they are not compatible with latex condoms because it breaks down its integrity, leading to unwanted rips. 

Oil-based lubricants are great for massages and moisturizing. With both major attributes and detractions, use this type of lube with discretion. 

How To Lube It Up 

Woman holding lube

This might sound like a cop-out but there isn’t one specific way to use lubricants. The way you use lube is completely dependent on your individual goals and needs. If you’re a woman who needs a little extra moisture, be generous with the amount of lube you use. Also, remember that vaginal pH levels normally fall between 3.8-4.5. Making sure to use a lubricant with a pH balance of less than 4.5 decreases the risk of contracting an infection. 

Ph Scale

If you’re looking to engage in some anal play, remember that the anus is an extremely sensitive area, filled with nerves. You will need to gauge your level of comfort with anal sex and make that call for yourself. 

When using condoms, make sure to apply a non-oil based lubricant on the outside to avoid rips or breakages. 

Something else that isn’t required but could help is using your hands to warm up your lubricant before application. Give it a try and see if you feel a difference. 

Things To Avoid 

Woman hand sign refusing

The world of lubes can be overwhelming. With thousands of brands to choose from, they each have different formulations and ingredients. 

Always pay attention to the label of your lubricant because you may be buying a product that can leave you feeling itchy, inflamed, or with a burning sensation. 

Some common ingredients to avoid are: 

  • Petroleum 
  • Chlorhexidine gluconate 
  • Nonoxynol-9 

Other key indicators to look out for are lubricants that are paraben-free, made for sensitive use, and condom-friendly. 

If you’re interested in purchasing a lubricant and want to gain quick insight, look for customer reviews. If a large majority of reviews are negative, it’s time to find another lubricant. 

Lubes are much more than a clear substance. It is an easy and affordable way to spice up your sex life. Once you give lubricants a try, you’ll never want to have sex any other way. 

BEST LUBE FOR SENSITIVE SKIN BEST TYPE OF LUBE FOR MEN | KEEP ANAL PLAYFUL


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