Lube gets a bad rap. Using lube can be taken as a sign of lack of arousal or dysfunction down under, but it’s far from the truth. Certain meds, one too many glasses of wine, and lots of other factors can lead to a little dryness. But let’s be honest. Even when you don’t ‘need’ it, lube can be your best of friends. It reduces friction, increases sensation, and can help get things started a little sooner. Which is never a bad thing.

It is important to know your stuff when choosing a lube. So here’s a quick overview on choosing the right one for you.

Water-based

Safe and easy, but not for longtime lovin’

Water-based lube is popular because it is easy to clean — off that bangin’ bod of yours, clothes, sheets, and any other places you’re putting it. (Counter tops, too? Get in where you fit in.)  Its smooth, silky texture also makes it a top pick as it doesn’t clump or get super tacky like other lubes can. It’s safe for use with personal accessories and your latex protection plan (condoms, diaphragms, et cetera).

The downside? This lube is definitely more of a short-term commitment. If you’re planning an all-night romp 1) we’re super jealous and 2) you’ll have to reapply as they dry out faster.  And for those with extra sensitive skin, Carlen Costa recommends you look out for glycerine or cellulose “as this may cause you to become more susceptible to various uncomfortable infections such as those in the yeast category, ladies.” Try Lelo Personal Moisturizer

Silicone

Good for a backyard party, bad for your silicone sidekick

Silicone lube can also be a good choice to add some liquid to your love, including the backdoor variety. It lasts much longer than water-based lube, and can be used with latex condoms and non-silicone toys.  It is  hypoallergenic, doesn’t wash off in water (which makes it perfect for pool/shower/ocean action), and has a thicker texture.

Reasons to say no to silicone? Silicone lube used on silicone toys will slowly break them down and ruin them over time, and its thicker texture can make it harder to wash out if it gets anywhere other than your private parts. If you don’t like cleaning up post-romp (no judgment here) or are looking for a lube that gets along with your silicone vibrating bedmate, this isn’t for you. Try Pink Silicone Lubricant for Women

Oil-based

For hands-on activities

If you’re in a pinch and are considering oil-based lubes, you might want to think again. Oil-based lubes like baby oil and Vaseline break down latex and are difficult for a woman’s body to flush out, increasing the risk for infection. Because they are commonly much thicker they’re also more difficult to clean up.

If you’re in a monogamous relationship and aren’t using latex contraceptives, plant-based hypoallergenic oil lubricants like olive, coconut, or grape oil are good options, especially if you’re sensitive to artificial ingredients. And extra bonus, they’re eco-friendly!

Bottom line. Oil-based lubes are good for external fun (read: hand jobs), but not aren’t the best option from a health and safety perspective.

All the Others

There’s tons of variety in the world of lube.  Whether its added flavor, or sensation lubes that provide heating, tingling and numbing, make sure you’re extra careful. Read labels carefully and test it on a very small section of your goods. Wash off immediately with warm water and soap if you experience discomfort.  And while you can use snazzy sensation lubes to add a little excitement to your bedroom routine, you don’t want to use them on a regular basis, because that is much more likely to lead to irritation.

And yes. Theoretically, chocolate-flavored oral sex sounds ideal.  But remember that while flavored, edible lube sounds delicious, it is often filled with sugar and glycerin, which promotes yeast….which promotes an unhappy, uncomfortable you.  If you want something glycerin-free try Liquid Silk

Overall, lube can lead to more comfortable sex and more exploration for you and your boo.  As we all know, no two people are built exactly the same, so you might have to test out different brands and types to find the best option for you. Think of the same process you go through to find the perfect facial moisturizer and show your lady parts the same kind of love.  Check out Sliquid H2O or Sliquid Naturals Satin for other good options

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