Wetter is Better: Why Dry Sex is Outdated
There's this weird thing about lube. Everyone knows it exists, but hardly anyone talks about it at least, not without whispering or awkward laughter. And that’s strange, really, because if there's one thing that could genuinely make sex better for almost everyone, it's lube. No exaggeration.
Maybe it’s because we’ve been led to believe that "natural" should be enough. That good sex just... happens. Perfectly. Effortlessly. But if you've ever had an experience that felt a little, well, dry and uncomfortable you’ll know the reality can be a bit different.
Good sex is about connection, chemistry, and yes... comfort. And that’s exactly where lube steps in. Literally smoothing things over, helping things feel better, last longer, and sometimes even saving the day.
So let’s be honest: wetter really is better. Here's why it matters, and how picking the right lube could turn your good sex life into a truly great one.
Why Natural Lubrication Isn't Always Enough
Look, the human body is amazing. It does a lot on its own... self-lubrication included. But (and it’s a big but), bodies aren't machines. They don't always perform exactly the same way every single time. Hormones, stress, anxiety, hydration, medications, even simple tiredness... all of it can mess with natural lubrication levels.
And that's totally normal. No shame, no fault, no "doing it wrong." It just is.
In fact, studies have shown that even when people are super turned on, mentally and physically, natural lubrication might not keep up. So if you’ve ever wondered, "Why am I not as ready as I thought I'd be?" … you're not alone. You're human.
Some common reasons natural lubrication isn’t enough:
- Hormonal changes: (especially during menopause, postpartum, or even your regular cycle)
- Medications: like antidepressants, antihistamines, and the pill
- Stress and anxiety: the biggest mood (and moisture) killers
- Dehydration: yep, if you're thirsty, so are your parts
- Simply how your body works: no two people are the same
Sometimes, it’s frustrating. Sometimes, it’s uncomfortable. And sometimes, without the right support it leads to that awkward shuffle of stopping and starting, repositioning, or even abandoning the whole thing altogether. Which is a shame, honestly.
And even if you don't need extra moisture for comfort, lube can massively amplify what you already have. It’s like salt on chips. The chips were fine. But now? They're phenomenal.
Head on over to our Guide to Lubricants to learn more.
The Magic of Lube: Making Good Sex Great
If you've never used lube before or only in very "special occasions", you might not realise how much you're missing out.
Good lube does more than just "fix" dryness. It enhances everything. Every glide, every movement, every little touch becomes smoother, softer, more intense.
Here’s why it works:
- Reduces friction - and friction isn’t just mildly annoying. Over time, it can actually cause micro-tears in sensitive areas (ouch) and leave you vulnerable to irritation or even infection.
- Heightens sensitivity - counter-intuitive maybe, but true. Without friction "dragging" on your skin, nerve endings can actually focus on sensation rather than discomfort.
- Prolongs pleasure - when things move effortlessly, stamina naturally improves. It's less about distraction, more about focus on each other.
Lube is also a brilliant confidence-booster. Perhaps that sounds silly at first, but think about it: knowing everything is going to feel smooth and slick, not awkward or painful, takes a massive weight off. You can relax. Focus on connection. Play without worry.
And no, it's not "cheating." It’s smart.
Imagine playing your favourite sport with the wrong shoes. You could technically still do it but why would you, if a better option exists?
In the same way, why not give yourself every advantage in bed?
Silicone Vs. Water Based Lube: Which One Should You Choose
Now, this is where it gets a little tricky (but fun tricky, not maths-class tricky).
Choosing the right lube isn’t just about grabbing the first bottle you see. Different formulas feel different. Some are better suited for certain activities than others. And honestly? Personal preference plays a huge role too.
Here’s the basics:
Water Based Lube:
- Light and natural feeling - it mimics the body’s own lubrication closely
- Safe with condoms and all toys - no worries about materials breaking down
- Easy to wash off - a little soap and water and you’re good
- Dries out faster — might need to reapply during longer sessions
Water-based lubes are fantastic for most bedroom adventures. They're versatile, clean, and Skins has some seriously good options that are body-kind and non-sticky.
Head on over to our article on water based lubricants to discover more.
Silicone Based Lube:
- Incredibly silky - much slicker and longer-lasting than water-based
- Great for water play - baths, showers, hot tubs, you name it
- Doesn’t dry out - a little goes a very long way
Silicone lubes are ideal if you’re planning a marathon session or anything adventurous. Just a word of caution: they're not always compatible with silicone toys. (Although, some modern toys are designed to work fine, it's worth checking your packaging.)
If you’ve never tried a silicone lube before, you might be amazed at how little you need for how good it feels. It's almost like a little magic trick in a bottle.
Discover more about silicone lubricants with our helpful guide.
Other Surprising Benefits of Using Lube Every Time
Honestly, lube isn't just about making sex feel "a bit nicer." It can genuinely transform your entire experience. Even if you already feel like your sex life is great, there are hidden perks to making lube a regular guest star.
Some you might not expect:
- Better protection: Less friction means condoms are less likely to tear.
- Reduced irritation: Avoid soreness, redness, or tiny cuts after play.
- More adventurous: Feel more comfortable trying new positions or techniques.
- Boosted confidence: Worry less, enjoy more.
- Enhanced emotional connection: Weirdly enough, feeling physically relaxed often leads to deeper emotional intimacy.
Plus, let’s be brutally honest, some days, bodies just aren’t on their A-game. Maybe you're tired. Maybe it’s dry winter air. Maybe you just really need the help. Having lube on hand feels like having a first-aid kit for your sex life... except it's more like a "pleasure kit."
And hey, isn't that something everyone deserves?
Pro tip: Keep a good lube nearby before you think you’ll need it. (Skins bottles are pretty sleek — you won't even feel awkward if someone spots them.)
Slide into Better Sex (Literally)
If there's one small, easy, inexpensive thing you could do tonight or, well, whenever you fancy to instantly improve your sex life... it's reaching for the lube.
It's simple. It's smart. And honestly? It makes everything better.
So go ahead. Grab yourself a good lube from Skins.
Slide into smoother, sexier, more connected moments.
Because wetter really is better. Always has been.
