Beginner's Guide to Lubricants
Alright, let’s talk about lube. Yes, that magical substance that takes your bedroom (or kitchen, or wherever!) antics from “meh” to “OH MY GOD, is this what the hype is about?!”
Whether you’re a lube enthusiast or you’ve never ventured past the supermarket aisle of shame, this guide will break it all down for you. Why? Because life is too short for uncomfortable sex.
What is lube?
Lube, short for lubricant, is a substance designed to reduce friction during sexual activities, making them more comfortable and enjoyable. While our bodies produce natural lubrication, it’s not always sufficient. Factors like stress, medications, hormonal changes, or simply prolonged activity can result in dryness. Lube steps in to bridge the gap, ensuring smooth, pleasurable experiences.
There are several types of lube to suit different needs:
- Water-based lubes are versatile and compatible with condoms and sex toys. They’re easy to clean and offer a natural feel, but they can dry out faster, requiring reapplication.
- Silicone-based lubes are long-lasting and ideal for water-based activities or marathon sessions, though they aren’t suitable for silicone toys.
- Hybrid lubes combine the best of water and silicone, offering durability with easier clean-up.
- Oil-based lubes, such as coconut oil, offer a thick, indulgent texture, but they’re not latex-condom friendly and can be messy to clean. To ensure safe sex is maintained with a condom then opt for the other types of lubricants.
Head on over to our Guide to Condoms to learn more.
Choosing the right lube depends on your preferences and activities. Lube isn’t just for penetration; it can enhance foreplay, massages, and even solo sessions. Specialty lubes, like warming or flavored varieties, add extra fun to the mix.
Using lube is simple: apply a small amount to the desired area or toy, and reapply as needed. Always store it within reach for convenience like a bedside drawer and clean up properly afterward. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, lube is a game-changer, adding comfort and excitement to your intimate moments. Think of it as a must-have accessory for better, smoother, and more pleasurable experiences.
Why does lube rock the bedroom?
First things first, why should lube even be on your radar? Surely our bodies were designed to handle things naturally, right?
Well, sort of.
Here’s the tea: natural lubrication doesn’t always show up when you want it to. Stress, hormonal changes, certain medications, or just wanting to go at it for longer than Mother Nature intended can leave things feeling a bit...dry.
And nobody wants to feel like they’re rubbing sandpaper.
But lube isn’t just for solving problems. It can enhance sensation, reduce friction (we’re looking at you, those who enjoy the marathon sessions), and make everything just feel better. Even if you’re naturally blessed with enough wetness to flood a small country, adding lube can elevate your experience from “good” to “Oh sweet heavens above".
Type of lubes: In more depth
Not all lubes are created equal. In fact, wandering into the lube aisle of a shop (or scrolling through endless online options) can be overwhelming. But don’t worry, we’ll navigate this slippery slope together.
Water-Based Lube
The all-rounder, the people’s champion, the Swiss army knife of the lube world. Water-based lubes are:
-
Easy to clean up (just a splash of water or a damp cloth and you’re good to go).
-
Compatible with pretty much every sex toy and condom.
-
Light and natural feeling.
But there’s a catch: water-based lubes tend to dry out quicker than other types, which means you might need to reapply mid-session. Pro tip: keep a bottle on your bedside table like it’s your trusty sidekick.
Water-based lubes come in a variety of formulations, ranging from ultra-thin to thicker, gel-like textures. The thinner ones mimic natural lubrication, making them perfect for those who prefer a barely-there feel.
Another perk of water-based lube is its versatility. You can use it for solo sessions, partner play, or even as an added glide for massages. And if you’re into experimenting with temperature play, water-based lube can be easily warmed up or cooled down for extra sensation. Just be mindful of reapplication – keep it handy and treat it like the MVP it is.
When to use it: Vaginal sex, solo play, or with any type of toy.
Avoid if: You’re diving into shower shenanigans (it’ll wash right off).
Read more: What is water-based lubricant?
Silicone-Based Lube
Silky, long-lasting, and oh-so-smooth. Silicone-based lubes are the Ferraris of the lube world. They don’t dry out, so they’re ideal for marathon sessions or activities that take place in water (bathtub adventurers, rejoice!).
Silicone lubes are known for their luxurious, silky texture that feels incredibly smooth against the skin. They don’t absorb into the skin like water-based lubes, which means they last much longer. This makes them ideal for extended sessions, whether you’re indulging in a slow, sensual evening or exploring kinkier scenarios that require prolonged slickness.
One of the standout features of silicone lube is its performance in water. Whether you’re getting frisky in the shower, bathtub, or hot tub, silicone lube stays put and keeps things slippery. However, its longevity can also be its downside when it comes to clean-up. It’s not water-soluble, so you’ll need soap and warm water to wash it off completely.
When to use it: Water play, or when you’re not in the mood to keep reapplying.
Avoid if: You’re using silicone toys. Silicone lube + silicone toy = a tragic meltdown (your toy will look like it’s been attacked by acid).
Read more: What is silicone-based lubricant?
Hybrid Lube
The best of both worlds. Hybrid lubes mix water and silicone, giving you a balance between easy clean-up and long-lasting slickness. They’re versatile and a great middle-ground option if you’re indecisive (or just want to try it all).
Hybrid lubes are designed to give you the light, natural feel of water-based lubes with the staying power of silicone. This makes them an excellent choice for people who want a bit of both worlds.
Clean-up is relatively easy compared to full silicone lubes, though it might take a little more effort than water-based options. The texture of hybrid lubes often feels luxurious, striking a nice balance between slickness and comfort. Some even come with added benefits like aloe or chamomile for soothing effects.
When to use it: Pretty much anytime, as long as you’re not using a silicone toy.
Avoid if: You’re a purist who wants an all-natural option.
Specialty Lubes
Feeling fancy? The market is full of specialty lubes that cater to specific preferences:
-
Warming lubes: Add a tingly, hot sensation. Perfect for winter nights or if you want a little extra thrill.
-
Flavoured lubes: Great for oral sex.
Speciality lubes are the icing on the cake for adventurous couples or individuals. Warming lubes, for instance, can add an extra layer of excitement by creating a pleasant heat sensation. These are perfect for cold winter nights or when you want to spice things up (pun intended). Just test a small amount first to ensure the warming agent doesn’t irritate your skin.
Flavoured lubes, meanwhile, make oral sex a delight for both partners. From fruity concoctions to dessert-inspired options, there’s something for every palate. Just make sure to choose sugar-free varieties to avoid any unwelcome surprises in the health department.
Oil-Based Lube
Oh, the old-school classic. Think coconut oil, baby oil, or other natural oils. Oil-based lubes can feel indulgent and moisturising, and they last forever without drying out. But…
-
They’re not condom-friendly (oil + latex = splitsville).
-
They’re a pain to clean up and can stain your sheets. Bye-bye, fancy bedding.
Oil-based lubes can be a dream for those who prefer natural, organic options. Coconut oil, for example, is a popular choice due to its pleasant scent, moisturising properties, and ease of access. Some people even swear by it for its antifungal and antibacterial benefits. However, not all oils are created equal. Avoid anything overly processed or perfumed, as these can irritate sensitive skin or upset your body’s natural balance.
Another fantastic use for oil-based lube is sensual massage. Its thicker consistency makes it perfect for gliding over skin, turning foreplay into an all-out spa experience. Just make sure to designate separate bottles for massage and intimate use – hygiene is key, folks!
Despite its perks, oil-based lube has a few drawbacks. Besides its incompatibility with latex condoms, it’s also notoriously difficult to wash off. You’ll need hot water, soap, and possibly a bit of scrubbing to remove all traces. If you’re using oil-based lube, consider investing in some dark, stain-resistant sheets or towels to protect your bedding.
When to use it: Hand jobs, massages, or when condoms aren’t involved.
Avoid if: You’re in a rush or don’t want your sheets looking like a Jackson Pollock painting.
How to choose the right lube
Now that you’ve got the lowdown, how do you choose the right one?
It’s a bit like dating: you’ve got to try a few before finding “The One.”
Start with smaller bottles until you’ve figured out what you like. And don’t be afraid to mix and match! We have combined some of our most popular lubricant lines into smaller sample tubes in 3 and packs.
Check out our 12ml sample lube tubes today.
Sometimes, a hybrid approach is the way to go. The Skins Fusion hybrid lube is the ideal solution for a hybrid lubricant.
However, just remember, if you are introducing lube to solo play with silicone sex toys then avoid Silicone-Based lubricants.
Read more: Why is lubricant good for sex?
Lubricants FAQs
Is lube safe to ingest?
Most water-based lubricants are safe for oral sex. At Skins, our flavoured lubes are safe to ingest. However, they're not intended as food and swallowing in small amounts during them intimate moments is more than fine. Flavoured lubes like Skins Tasty Salted Caramel Seduction and Skins Fruity Juicy Mango & Passionfruit are some of the favourites amongst our customers, why not give them a try yourself.
How much lube should I use?
It's always best to start small as it's easier to add more lube than take it away. When the heat of moment intensifies then gradually build up the quantity of lubricant that you apply to what you feel is necessary.
How do I know which lube is right for me?
Like everything sex-related, lube preference is based on the individual. Doing your research is key but ultimately it's a case of trial and error. Some may prefer a water-based lube whereas other prefer silicone.
Nonetheless, different lubes have different purposes so you could always opt for a flavoured water-based lube for oral sex and then silicone-based lube for penetrative sex.
At Skins, we have put together some sample tubes for you to explore our range.
Can lube be used for masturbation?
Yes, whichever gender you may identify as, introducing lubricants during solo play can provide an extra thrill. Using lube during them private sessions alone will also help to prevent any unwanted friction that may naturally occur when going without.
Go on give it a try and you won't regret it.
Does lube last long after opening?
Lubricants typically have a shelf life of one to three years, depending on the ingredients. For the best experience, aim to use yours within a year of opening and make sure the cap is tightly secured after every use. It is always best to refer to your lube bottle for further information.
