Lube Guide

Our guide guide to Lube….Do’s and Dont’s when using lube during sex with and without sex toys.

Lubrication during sex can be used for two main reasons. Either to improve sensation and the enjoyment or to help with vaginal dryness that can cause pain.

When we have sex, two glands, called Bartholin’s glands produce extra moisture in order to provide good lubrication when aroused. However, this lack of lubrication moisture can become a problem for many of us during sex. This can be caused by a number of reasons and is covered in our article covering vaginal dryness.

Dryness can be treated easily by using lubricants. There are two primary types of Lubricants, Water and Silicone based:

Silicone-based lubricants
Silicone lubricants do not contain any water. They are not absorbed by skin and are therefore hypoallergenic and last longer than water-based lubricants. They are ideal for use in water such as baths, hot tubs, and pools. Many are not Latex safe, and we would not recommend using them with condoms unless specifically stated by the manufacturer. We do not recommend their use with toys or other products made of Silicone as it could cause damage to the toy. As Silicone based lubricants are not water soluble, use for oral sex is not recommended, they may also leave stains on bed sheets.

Recommended:
• For use in water (bath, pool and hot tub).
• If you suffer from allergies.
• For prolonged use.

Not recommended:
• With Condoms
• With Silicone toys
• Oral sex

Water-based lubricants
Water-based lubricants are the most widely used. They are safe to use with condoms and sex toys, and wash off easily. As they are water based they absorb into the skin, evaporate and have a tendency to dry out during use, however, reapplication of the lubricant or of water/saliva is usually enough to reactivate them. When the lubricant eventually dries, it can leave residue from the other ingredients in the product. This may require reapplication during sex, and/or removal of the residue with water. We would not recommend using water based lubricants in water. As water-based lubricants are readily absorbed by the body, if you have concerns or suffer from allergies, you should check the label and consult with your doctor prior to use.

Recommended:
• With Condoms
• With Silicone toys
• With all toys
• Oral sex

Not recommended:
• For use in water (bath, pool, hot tub or sea), as the lube will wash away.
• If you suffer from allergies, seek advice prior to use.