Guide to Lubricants & Oils
Is there really a difference between all of these lubes?

by Mikayla

Astroglide, K-Y, Wet, ID Glide, Too Timid Personal, Swiss Navy? What do all of these names have in common? They are all lubricants! The “land” of lubrication is an expansive one – where one could easily get confused on what the differences are, and what constitutes a good lube. When navigating your way through lubrication island – one usually asks oneself, “isn’t a lube just a lube?” The answer, NO, NO, NO!!! There is a definite difference in lubes as well as an appropriate time and place to use a lubricant. Like your winter and summer purse – you may need a winter and summer lubricant!

So grab hold of a pencil and paper, cause Lubrication 101 is about to start and when it is finished, I guarantee that you will know more than you ever thought you could about lubes!

WHY USE A LUBE?
Many people are under the misconception that if they become aroused, and therefore self-lubricate that they do not need another lubricant. Or, if they are not self-lubricating enough, there is something wrong with their bodies. Some people even find saliva an adequate lubricant. The truth is, even if you are self-lubricating, there are times you may need or want some extra lubrication. Also, if your body is not producing enough lubrication for you, you should utilize a synthetic lubricant. Finally, saliva works in a pinch for a few seconds, but has NO long-lasting characteristics at all.

There are some instances when a lube is not only suggested, but absolutely NECESSARY! Namely, when playing with sex toys or during Anal Sex. In either instance, injury can occur (not to mention PAIN) if there is not a sufficient amount of lubrication on hand (or inside, rather). Hence, I always, ALWAYS insist that people use lubricants for either of these situations.

The fact is, sexual play (or masturbation) only feels BETTER when there is more lubrication added to the mix. Whether it be a toy, a penis or even fingers – things go in and out smoother with lube!

DIFFERENT TYPES OF LUBE
If you have ever attempted to buy a lube, you may have noticed that there are hundreds – not to mention more than one kind. In fact, there are 4 main types of lubes:

Water-based: As the name suggests, these lubricants are “water” based – sometimes upwards of 90% water. They are the most popular lubes, the easiest to find, and usually the cheapest. Water-based lubes have their pros and cons. On the PRO side: these lubes are usually clear, won’t stain, clean up nicely with water and soap and can be used for all types of play from vaginal sex, to toy play – but probably not anal play. They are compatible with ALL toy materials and some are even edible or flavored! They are also condom compatible. On the CON side: They are not the longest lasting lubes – so for extended toy play or masturbation, they really don’t hold up. This is why they are not suggested for anal play. They are usually not too thick, more runny, and can be a little “free flowing” from the bottle.

Some of my top picks for Water-Based Lubes are:
ASTROGLIDE: This is probably overall one of the top lube picks. It is natural, close to a woman’s own lubrication, works well, lasts long and is not sticky or slimy. This lube actually works OK for anal sex too, even as a water-based lube.
KAMA SUTRA LOVE LIQUID: Pretty much anything in the Kama Sutra line is fantastic. This wonderful lubricant is no exception. It is clear, unscented, non-sticky, and sugar-free (so safe for a woman’s tender spots). It is also long-lasting and slick. A definite top pick of mine.
TOOTIMID PERSONAL LUBE: Too Timid actually has a fantastic lube as well. I compare it to Astroglide in form and function. Great for toy play and vaginal sex. Also clear, non-staining and non-sticky – you can’t go wrong with this quality lube at a low price.


Silicone Based: Silicone lubes are the next popular type of lubricant. As the name implies, these lubes are infused with silky silicone – which makes for LONG lasting toy or sex play! Silicone lubes are GREAT for water play or anal sex – since they do not absorb into the skin or dissolve in water. They can be thicker and slightly sticky, and are usually condom safe. These lubes are NOT edible and have some restrictions as to toy use. They are NOT compatible with Cyberskin or Silicone (partial or 100%) toys – and using a silicone-based lube with these types of toys will end in erosion. Clean-up usually involves a lot of soap, water and elbow grease.

Some of my top-picks for Silicone-based lubes are:
SWISS NAVY: While the name might sound odd, this lubricant is truly top-notch. Silky smooth, non—sticky, clear and non-greasy – it really is a top performer for anal or water play. This lube lasts and lasts without needing new application. It works well with toys (except those named) and really provides a velvety feel to sex play.
KAMA SUTRA PLEASURE POTION: At the risk of sounding redundant, I have to once again sing the praises of Kama Sutra products. This lube is long lasting, silky smooth, not runny, non-staining and a pleasure to use. Use as an anal lube or a standard lube for sex or masturbation, the Kama Sutra line of lubes really does set a new standard for pleasure.


Petroleum Based: You have probably not thought of or even heard of a petroleum based lube – except maybe Vaseline. While Vaseline might have been your parent’s “go to” lube, it is not the most pleasant lubricant to use. It is thick, sticky, mushy and overall not long-lasting. It can be extremely irritating to a woman’s vagina and definitely shouldn’t be used with condoms or cyberskin or rubber toys – they will break down immediately. Furthermore, for those diaphragm users, it can poke holes right in your diaphragms! The only thing I EVER would even CONSIDER recommending a petroleum lube for would be male masturbation – and even for that purpose there are so many better choices available.

I have no picks in this category; there are too many other lubes available!

Oil Based: Similar to its petroleum based brother, the Oil-Based lube is a blast from the past and really has no place in a sexual situation now. Oil based lubes are things like Baby Oil (yes, people use it as a lube), Crisco and vegetable oil – as well as a very few lubricants made for sex that have oil bases. These are HORRIBLE choices for sex – they wear down condoms and toys, are irritating to the body and are messy as heck. Do yourself a favor and stick to the 2 main lube kinds – water and silicone based.


HEATING THNGS UP
Now, as a kind of sub-genre in lubricant land are the warming lubes. These lubes are mostly water-based lubes that have special ingredients in them that “warm” on contact or with the heavy breath of your partner. Warming lubes are loads of fun because they add a new sensation to play – and can be wonderfully stimulating to either partner.

My top picks in Warming Lubes:
HOT STUFF WARMING EDIBLE GEL: While this particular lube crosses over into the next sub-genre of edible lubes, it is most definitely a warming lube! It gets pretty hot (and not just from the sex) but adds such a nice sensation. While it is a nice, long lasting lube – it was sort of sticky and runny. However, I still recommend it for its warming properties.
KAMA SUTRA OILS OF LOVE: Once again, a hit from Kama Sutra. These massage oils are WONDERFULL scented, edible, good tasting, long-lasting and definitely a warm addition to sex play. This is one of my absolute favorite oils – and we have used it again and again in my household!

SMOOTH IT ON, LICK IT OFF
I have already alluded to this next sub-genre of lubes and lotions – the edible lubes. These lubes are so handy when you are heavy into oral play and like to go from going down to putting in! Oral lubricants are water-based and have a variety of consistencies and flavors. One thing is for sure, when you get a lube you can lick, it takes the foreplay to a whole, new level.

My top picks in edible lubes:
THINK PINK ORAL SEX LOTION: This versatile, warming, edible, flavored oral sex lubricant is silky smooth, non-staining, and fun! While not as long lasting as one might hope for in a sex lube, as far as oral sex goes – this lube is wonderful. Gently warms on contact – and tastes great – the perfect thing to introduce during your next oral session.
SWEET SEX LUBE: This lubricant is happily endorsed by myself as well as my hubby! Long lasting, smooth, silky, great tasting AND a nice, cooling sensation on contact – this edible sex lube will take you from oral to whatever else in no time flat!

ANAL SEX LUBRICANTS
Our discussion about lubricants will come to a close with the anal lubricants. These lubricants are special in that they are designed for the demands of anal sex. Since the rectum does NOT produce ANY natural lubricant of its own, it is essential to have an anal lube on hand for any type of anal play – from digital, to toys to penile intrusion. Anal sex can be wonderful, with the right lube – and the right amount of lube!

My top picks for anal lubes are:
EROS BODYGLIDE: This silicone based lube is totally wonderful! It is highly concentrated and designed as a personal lubricant, a massage oil AND a moisturizer! A little bit of this lube goes a long, long way – great for anal sex. It is non-staining, non-sticky and non-scented. It is, however, not a lube that washes away easily; you will have to use a lot of soap and water to remove it!
ASTROGLIDE: Even though NOT a silicone-based lubricant, Astroglide has long been a favorite for anal sex. It is long-lasting, smooth, sensual, non-staining, non-sticky and just plain GOOD. I definitely recommend Astroglide as the “do anything” lube!

LIVING THE LIFE WITH LUBRICANTS
Well, I hope that this article has helped to shed some light on the different types and functions of lubricants. My goal is to inform and discuss – and to show all people the importance of having the right lube. Having lubrication on hand for whatever activity you want to engage in is always a good idea. Do not worry about being “dry” yourself, or offending your partner – look out for yourself and protect your delicate spaces by providing a slick entrance for the activity of your choice!

Lubes make sex FUN – and can bring oral sex to a whole, new level! Consider trying a few and finding your own favorites. Hopefully, you are more informed now than you were before. Please read my other article on Male Masturbation – where one final lube is discussed – the Male Masturbation Aid!

Until then – LUBE UP!!