The lubricant is often considered an accessory that one would only need in case of «problem». In reality, it is mainly used to reduce friction and can make masturbation, vaginal penetration, use of a sex toy or anal sex more comfortable.
Waiting for irritation or pain to add does not make much sense. As with many accessories, it is easier to plan for lubrication before starting and putting it back as soon as the movements become less fluid.
In which situations to use a lubricant?
With a masturbator
Cups and sleeves create a lot of contact around the penis. Using them dry can cause unpleasant friction and also damage certain materials. A sufficient amount of lubricant makes the movement more flexible.
In case of vaginal dryness
Stress, hormones, menopause, certain medications, session duration and many other factors can alter natural lubrication. Adding a lubricant is not a sign of lack of excitement or attraction: it is simply a way to improve comfort.
If drought is persistent, painful or associated with burns, talk to a health professional.
For anal sex
The rectum does not produce a lubrication comparable to that of the vagina. A generous amount of lubricant is therefore particularly important to limit friction during anal penetration.
You have to put it back if necessary and progress slowly. The lubricant reduces friction but does not make a painful «safe» practice: significant pain remains a stop signal.
For longer reports
Natural lubrication and some water-based products may decrease over time. Adding product during the report is perfectly normal.
Water-based lubricant
It is the most versatile type. It is easy to clean, generally leaves little residue and is compatible with a lot of sex toys and condoms.
However, the formula varies enormously depending on the brand. Some gels are very liquid, others thick or enriched with moisturizing agents.
perks
- Easy water cleaning; ;
- Generally compatible with silicone, TPE, glass and metal toys; ;
- generally compatible with latex condoms; ;
- low-oily feeling; ;
- Good choice to start.
bounds
The water eventually evaporates or be absorbed, so that the product can become sticky or less slippery. It is often enough to put back a little, or sometimes add a few drops of water depending on the formula.
There is no universal duration of «10 to 30 minutes»: it depends on the product, quantity and activity.
Silicone-based lubricant
Silicone lubricants generally stay slippery longer than water-based and water-resistant. They can therefore be interesting for anal sex, long sessions or certain uses in the shower when the context is suitable.
They are also often compatible with latex condoms, but always check the label.
With silicone sex toys: caution, not automatic ban
We often hear that a silicone lubricant necessarily «destroys» a silicone sex toy. The reality depends on the formulations. Some pairs of products are compatible, others may alter the surface.
The safest thing is to follow the recommendations of the sex toy manufacturer. If it does not guarantee compatibility, choose a water-based lubricant or perform only the recommended test on a small non-functional area.
cleaning
A silicone lubricant may require more soap and water to be removed from the skin. On fabrics, some formulas can leave traces: protect the laundry if necessary.
Oil-based lubricants
Oils and fatty products can provide a lasting glide, but they are not suitable for all situations.
Essential point: oils can weaken latex condoms and increase the risk of rupture. If you are using a barrier method, check its material and manufacturer's recommendations before pairing an oily product.
Also avoid randomly using creams, essential oils, lotions or cosmetic products that are not intended for mucous membranes.
Is the lubricant already present on a condom enough?
Sometimes yes, sometimes no. Condoms are often pre-lubricated, but a long session or a significant dryness may require a supplement.
Add the lubricant to the outside of the condom after putting it on. A very small drop inside can be appreciated by some people, but too much product inside can promote condom slipping. Proper maintenance remains a priority.
Use especially a lubricant compatible with the condom material.
How much should I use?
There is no perfect dose in soybean grain size. Start with a sufficient amount for the surfaces to slick comfortably and add as soon as you feel more friction.
For anal sex, generally plan more product than for external stimulation. For a masturbator, lubricate the input and channel as indicated by the manufacturer.
If the product dries, reset is better to continue by forcing.
How to apply the lubricant?
You can put it on the fingers, penis, vulva, condom or sex toy as practice. The app itself can be part of the foreplay.
For an insertable toy, spread the product over the part that will enter the body and around the entrance. For a masturbator, put it on the penis and inside the canal.
Keep the bottle handy so you don't have to interrupt the session for long.
Should you wash inside the vagina afterwards?
No. There is no need to do vaginal douching. The vagina cleans itself naturally. Simply clean the external areas according to your habits if you feel the need.
Douching can disrupt the vaginal environment and are not a recommended hygiene method after sex.
Choose a small bottle to test
If you do not yet know your preferences, a small format allows you to try several textures without keeping a large bottle that does not suit you for years.
Also look at the retention date after opening and storage conditions. Close the product after use and avoid contaminating the mouthpiece with dirty hands.
Should you do an «allergy test» on the arm?
A small skin test can sometimes spot an obvious irritation, but the skin of the arm does not react exactly like a mucous membrane. A normal result on the forearm therefore does not guarantee that a product will be well tolerated at the genital level.
For a first use, start with a small amount. Stop in case of burns, itching, swelling or irritation and rinse. If the reaction is important or persists, check out.
Fragrance, heated or flavored products may be more irritating in some sensitive people.
Which lubricant to choose for sensitive skin?
If your skin or mucous membranes react easily, start with a simple, unscented and no heating effect or cooling effect. A water-based lubricant is often the most versatile choice, especially with sex toys. Read the ingredient list, start with a small amount and stop use in case of burning, itching or persistent irritation.
There is no universally «perfect» formula for all sensitive skin: tolerance varies from person to person. If you have a history of irritation or significant reactions, seek advice from a health professional.
Compatibility: the most important verification
Before buying, ask yourself three questions:
- Is he Compatible with my condom?
- Is he Compatible with my sex toy material?
- Is he Planned for the body area where I want to use it?
These three pieces of information are more useful than a «natural» or «ultra-long-lasting» slogan.
to remember
The lubricant is not a luxury and its use says nothing about your level of excitement. It is used to reduce friction and to make the activity more comfortable.
The water-based lubricant is usually the most versatile. Silicone provides lasting glide but requires checking with some toys. Oily products require special attention with latex condoms.
Use enough, add more when needed and choose according to the practice and the materials: this is the best way to enjoy the glide without transforming an easy-to-manage detail into preventable irritation.
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