Lube Guide: Types, Uses and Compatibility
If you're not sure which to pick, use a water-based lubricant: it's compatible with all toys and with latex condoms. Silicone lube lasts longer but shouldn't be used with silicone toys, and oil-based lube damages latex. In a study of 2,453 women published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine (Herbenick et al., 2011), sessions with water-based or silicone lubricant were rated as more pleasurable and satisfying, both solo and during vaginal sex. This is an association and doesn't prove the lubricant is the cause. Learn about the different types, when to use each one and which lubricants are compatible with your toys.
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Types of Lube
Water-Based
MOST VERSATILECompatible with all toys and condoms. Easy to clean, doesn't stain. May need reapplying.
Silicone-Based
LONGEST-LASTINGUltra long-lasting, doesn't dry out. Great for anal sex and use in water. NOT compatible with silicone toys.
Oil-Based
MASSAGEVery moisturizing and long-lasting. NOT compatible with latex condoms (it damages them).
Hybrids (Water + Silicone)
They combine water and a little silicone: they're easier to clean than pure silicone lube and last longer than water-based ones. Because they contain silicone, they aren't safe with silicone toys unless the manufacturer confirms it; with glass, steel or ABS there's no problem. Check the label to see if they're OK with condoms.
Compatibility Chart
| Lubricant | Silicone toys | Latex condom | In water | Anal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Water-Based | ✓ | ✓ | ○ | ✓ |
| Silicone-Based | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Oil-Based | ○ | ✗ | ✓ | ○ |
✓ Compatible | ✗ Not compatible | ○ Works but not ideal
From our orders: people who buy an anal toy add lubricant 26.2% of the time, about 2.3 times more often than with a vibrator (11.3%). Even so, almost three out of four orders with an anal toy don't include any. See all purchase data ›
When Should You Use Lube?
Always. The anus doesn't produce natural lubrication. Use thicker lubricants. With a condom, use water-based or silicone, never oil-based; with silicone toys, water-based is best.
It makes insertion easier and improves sensation, even with natural lubrication.
It can be caused by menopause, some medications or treatments, or stress. It's common and not a flaw. If it happens often or it hurts, it's a good idea to talk to a health professional.
Natural lubrication can decrease. Lube keeps things comfortable.
Lubricants at Loviux
For sensitive skin, choose a fragrance-free, flavor-free formula and avoid glycerin if you tend to get irritated. If you're trying to conceive, many lubricants can reduce sperm motility in the lab: use one labeled as fertility-friendly.
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