The two main types of personal lubricants for sex are water based and silicone based. Choosing one can be confusing. Each has its own set of good qualities and bad. To make matters worse, which is the best lube for you can depend on the type of sex play you are going to indulge in and your body. We are going to try to offer you an objective review of each type of lubricant in hopes that you will be better informed while searching for a personal lubricant.
Water Based Lubricants
Water based lubricants are the most commonly used lubes today. There are many reasons for that. Water based lubes are easily absorbed by your skin, both internally and externally. They rarely cause irritation and are not apt to increase your chances of getting a yeast infection. They are the most versatile in that they can be used for vaginal or anal intercourse, can be used with nearly any sex toy imaginable, are compatible will latex and polyurethane condoms, and most are tasteless so you can include oral sex at any point during an encounter. The vast majority of water based lubricants are also glycerin, paraben, pigment, and sugar free, making them even safer to use. Water based lubricants are frequently recommended by physicians to treat daily vaginal dryness due to hormonal changes during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and menopause.
Even with all of those glowing things said, there are a few down sides to water based lubricants. The first being that they are so easily absorbed by your skin. Most are so readily absorbed that you will need to reapply them during intercourse, perhaps spoiling the mood. The second main detractor is the limitations as to where water based lubes can be used. You can not use them in a wet environment like the shower or hot tub.
Silicone Based Lubricants
Silicone based lubricants are enjoying a surge in popularity. The rise in use can be attributed to the many positive attributes of silicone. Silicone based lubes provide an uber-slick lubrication that will last longer than either you or your partner. They can be used for vaginal or anal intercourse as well as in a wet environment. No more having to avoid the hot tub while trysting.
While silicone based lubricants have many uses, they do have a few more drawbacks than water based lubes. First on the list is that silicone can promote yeast infections in women who are susceptible to them. This is rare, but something to be aware of. Secondly, silicone will break down latex condoms and many sex toys. You can use polyurethane condoms and toys that are made from glass or metal. Thirdly, they have a horrible, bitter taste. No one in their right mind would want that in their mouth. The last major detractor is that silicone lubes can become a tad ”gummy” during sex and are harder to clean up after intercourse.
