Buying a Lubricant

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Whether alone or with a partner, a personal lubricant is essential. They are used to help us get closer, connect and stay intimate longer.  We use them to make love, explore our sexuality and feel comfortable enough that there is no distraction from being present. Most of the time, our bodies create enough lubrication to be regularly comfortable. Menopause, hormonal changes, childbirth, pelvic pain, medications, or use of devices and condoms can make additional lubrication necessary. Without it, delicate tissue can be damaged through small abrasions or micro-tears, leading the way to more discomfort and potential infection. Using additional lubricant is perfectly normal, highly recommended and can oftentimes enhance the experience. Using lubricant that contains safe ingredients that do not disrupt a woman’s pH or harbor bacteria is especially important.

You’ll find our selection of personal lubricants are free of:

  • Synthetic Glycerin
  • Propylene Glycol
  • Parabens
  • Sugars
  • Petroleum

Different Kinds of Lubricants

When selecting a personal lubricant, there are several kinds to consider. Different varieties cater to ingredient sensitivities, desired consistency, use with or without toys, daily or occasional use and other factors.

Water-Based Lubricant

The first ingredient is water or aloe (if glycerin is the first ingredient, it will be very thick and might be more of a “warming lotion”).

  • Most commonly used and manufactured
  • Comprised primarily of water
  • Can be reactivated by adding water
  • Offers the most variety, including flavors
  • Washes from the body quickly
  • Does not stain sheets
  • Can absorb into the skin, making it safe (and available) to use as a moisturizer
  • Can feel cool on the skin and may get a little sticky after some time
  • Compatible with all intimate device or adult toy materials
  • Examples on this site include: Wicked Simply Aqua, Bella CBD Lubricant, Intimate Earth Hydra

Recommended for:

Silicone Lubricant

A silicone lubricant includes ingredients that end in “ol” or “cone” like: dimethicone, dimethconol and also an ingredient like cyclopentasiloxane. It has greater staying power since it does not absorb into the skin meaning that it also needs to be washed off.

  • Never feels sticky
  • Creates long lasting glide
  • Can be used for an all-over body massage
  • Can be used in water (tub, shower or pool) but use with caution since it can make the skin and surfaces very slippery
  • NOT recommended for use with silicone products
  • Can also be used to tame flyaway hair or as an anti-chafing product for endurance athletes
  • Examples on this site include: Migliori, Pjur Woman, silicone formulas by Intimate Earth and Sliquid

Recommended for:

  • Those not wanting to frequently re-apply
  • Daily use as a vaginal moisturizer

Hybrid Lubricant

A hybrid lubricant is a water-based lubricant with a silicone ingredient included, like dimethicone.  It is usually visually white or creamy looking.

  • Feels slippery, but is thin enough to feel a lot of sensation
  • A unique water-based lube that does not feel sticky
  • Leaves the skin feeling silky smooth when dry
  • Often hydrates, protects and traps moisture in the skin
  • Compatible with latex, rubber, glass, metal and plastic materials
  • Not recommended for use with most silicone products
  • Examples on this site include: Sensuva Hybrid, Wicked Simply Hybrid, Naked Silk

Recommended for:

Those looking for a water-based lubricant with a little more staying potential

Plant-derived Lubricant

Carrageenan

Carrageenan is derived from seaweed and makes lubricants feel exceptionally slippery.  It can also heal and repair vaginal tissues, soothe and revive vaginal dryness, and add moisture. Some believe carrageenan is the most “natural” feeling. Examples on this site include: Intimate Earth Defense and Sliquid Organics Oceanics

Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is known for its natural healing properties (put it on a burn or to soothe sore skin from sunburn). It also provides a smooth and silky texture that matches a woman’s natural lubrication. Examples on this site include: Intimate Earth Hydra Water-Based Lubricant and Good Clean Love Almost Naked.

Recommended for:

  • Those prone to yeast or bacterial infections
  • Those who dislike the sticky or unnatural feel of other lubricants
  • Those looking for a daily personal lubricant or moisturizer for use during menopause, cancer treatment or while taking medication that causes dryness

Coconut Oil or Coconut Water

Coconut Oil has become more commonly used as a personal lubricant and is at times even used in its pure form, without additional ingredients. Some lubricants combine this ingredient with a water base for a smoother, longer-lasting lubricant. Examples on this site include: Coconut-oil based lubricants like CocoNu Water-based and CocoNu Oil-based

  • Often all-natural ingredients
  • Not recommended for use with latex condoms

Plant-based Lubricants

Rising in popularity, CBD (Cannabanoid) or Hemp lubricants are non-psychoactive and do not require a prescription or medical marijuana card. It is believed to act as an anti-inflammatory, providing relaxation and pain relief. The CBD or Hemp Oil is usually added to a more standard lubricant base such as water, silicone or carrageenan. Examples on this site include: Bella Aqua D’Amore, CocoNu Plant-Based Body Oil, GoLove Lubricant, and Toto Toca Oil.

Recommended for:

Choosing a Thick Lubricant or Thin Lubricant

Thick or “Gel”

  • Stays on the surface of the skin longer
  • Provides more “cushion” or comfortable feeling
  • Reduces friction and sensation—It is often ideal for anal penetration
  • Stays where it’s applied, so ideal for avoiding anal to vaginal migration
  • Examples on this site include: Intimate Earth Soothe and Wicked Simply Jelle

Thin

  • Allows a person to feel more sensation without friction
  • Perfect for someone who wants a “kick start” until her own moisture takes over
  • Often referred to as a “women’s” formula (for women who generally prefer to feel more sensation during penetration)

Common Questions

Why Should I Buy an Organic Lubricant?

Many conditions, illnesses and medications can cause the body to be more sensitive to ingredients. Organic lubricants can provide ingredients that a free from harmful processes, genetic modification and pesticides that can disrupt a woman’s body.

What Should I Look for In an Organic Lubricant?

Some lubricants labeled “organic” may only be partially organic so If you need your lubricant to be as pure as possible, be sure to check that it is labeled “Certified Organic” and that it has an organization listed that does the certification (for example, Oregon Tilth). Some labeled “Organic” may also have some ingredients that are Certified Organic, while others are not.

Why Should My Lubricant Be Glycerin-Free?

Glycerin, which is an excellent humectant that retains moisture, is a common ingredient in many water-based lubes. Glycerin may also mimic sugar when added to feminine chemistry and can exacerbate existing issues in sensitive women and lead to yeast infections or vaginal irritation. Most of the lubricants on MedAmour are glycerin-free. The only lubricants that DO contain glycerin are a plant-derived glycerin. If you are prone to yeast infections or irritation, it is best to steer clear.

Why Should My Lubricant Be Paraben-free?

Parabens are a common preservative found in most beauty products, but some women develop a sensitivity toward petrochemicals in the form of a skin irritation. Most products with parabens are banned in Europe. All lubricants on this site are paraben-free.

What is a Stimulating Lubricant?

Designed to increase sensation for both partners, stimulating lubes often include active ingredients like menthol or pepper that increase blood flow and awaken the nerve endings.