How to Choose the Right Lube for You

Trying to find the right lube can be tricky. There are so many options out there, and there are some things we aren’t taught in school that can really make a difference. You may have just picked a random one off the supermarket shelf, but it's important you actually know what you are putting on/in your body.

Types of Lube

There are three main types of lube: water-based, silicone-based, and oil-based. Each has its pros and cons, so let’s break it down.

Water-based lube is great for pretty much everyone and all types of play. It’s safe to use with sex toys and condoms, and it’s usually gentle on sensitive skin. Plus, it won’t stain sheets or clothing. The downside? It doesn’t last as long as other lubes, and it washes away easily in the shower or during longer sessions, so you may need to reapply.

Silicone-based lube is perfect if you want something long-lasting. You can use it with or without condoms, but be careful with silicone sex toys, because silicone lube can break down the material and damage your toy. It does stain, so keep that in mind, and you’ll likely need gentle soap to clean up afterwards.

Oil-based lube also lasts a long time and can double as a massage oil, making it perfect for full-body play. It won’t wash away easily in the shower either, so soap is needed for cleanup. Some things to watch out for: oil-based lube can increase the risk of thrush with vaginal use, and it should never be used with latex condoms, as it can break them down and increase the risk of STIs or pregnancy.

Special Considerations

You can also get flavoured lubes, which are perfect for oral sex. Just check the ingredients: if it has glycerin, avoid using it on a vulva, as glycerin can cause yeast infections. Unfortunately, most supermarket lubes contain glycerin, so a trip to a sex store is often necessary if you want a safer option.

There are other options too, like warming, cooling, or numbing lubes. Some of these may contain ingredients you want to avoid, like petrochemicals, parabens, or synthetic fragrances. The key is to listen to your body: if it burns, itches, or feels uncomfortable, stop using it and try something else.

Choosing the Right Lube for Your Play

Think about how you plan to use the lube. Is it for vaginal sex, penile play, anal sex, oral sex, sex toys, or all of the above? If you want to cover multiple activities, it’s worth having all three types on hand.

Personally, I love the FIGR water-based lube. It’s effective, feels amazing, and looks beautiful on my bedside table, which is always a nice bonus.

Finding the right lube can make a huge difference to your sexual pleasure, so don’t be afraid to experiment and see what works best for you.