Curiosity may have killed the cat, but it can really spice things up in the bedroom (or wherever else you like). For starters: wondering if you can use condoms and lube together? Lube lovers and the condom crowd, that’s right! Many people don’t realize that you can actually use lube and condoms together, whether with sex toys or a penis – but not all lube is created equal. Read on to find out why oil-based lube and latex shouldn’t mix and answers to some of your most frequently asked questions about sex, lube and condoms…
What the heck is lube anyway?
Lubes tend to be gel-like substances used to enhance sensations during sex. Lube is a simple way to reduce friction and discomfort that improves feelings of pleasure for everyone involved. Ignore the stereotypes. Lube isn’t just for “dry old ladies” (thanks for perpetuating that myth, Superbad) or strictly if you’re dealing with vaginal dryness. In fact, literally everyone on the planet should try it to discover the slippery, sexy benefits it can bring to solo fun or hooking up with a partner.
Now you mention it, why do some people feel discomfort during sex?
Vaginas naturally produce a natural lubricant when they are activated. However, the amount of natural oil produced will vary depending on the individual and their completely unique body. Everyone is different, and sometimes your humidity level can be disconnected from your arousal level, which can be confusing. Vaginal dryness happens to many of us at some point in our lives for many reasons including medications, health conditions, dehydration and more. If your vagina doesn’t produce enough natural fluid to prevent friction when you have sex, it can leave you feeling sore and irritated. Using a gentle lubricant that is kind to your body and your partner’s will enhance the experience and make it more enjoyable for both of you.
If I don’t feel discomfort during sex, can I use lube?
A big, lubey, YES. Lubricant is great for minimizing friction and can also be used to increase arousal and enhance sensations during sex. It may not always be necessary for vaginal sex, but it is necessary for anal sex, because the anus does not produce its own natural lubricant. Real talk: the anus is also a much tighter tube, so you need to use plenty of lube to ensure that both partners don’t experience chafing or even tearing the skin.
Can I use lubricant with condoms?
As a “barrier method. Condoms are the most effective method of protection against STDs and pregnancy. To keep you and your partner safe, it’s very important to choose the right lubricant to use with your condoms. The type of lubricant depends largely on the type of condom you use:
Latex condoms
Latex condoms are the most popular type of condom, and because they are made of natural rubber, you need to be extra careful about the type of lubricant you use with them. Avoid all oil-based lubricants when using latex condoms. This includes baby oil, coconut oil, and petroleum jelly, as the oil can break down the latex causing it to split or split, increasing the risk of pregnancy and STDs.
Water-based lubricant is the safest choice for use with latex condoms, as it minimizes the chance of the condom tearing. It’s also much easier to clean up afterwards without losing any slippery vibes. We developed our own HANX lube to be as close to the vaginal pH as possible to avoid any of the irritation or thrush infections caused by many of the top glycerin lubes on the market.
Condoms without latex
If you use non-latex condoms, check the back of the box to see what the condoms are is made from. If it is polyisoprene, a synthetic rubber, you should also avoid using oil-based lubricants, as polyisoprene reacts with oil in the same way natural latex does. Yeah, like Team HANX listening to Red (Taylor’s Version), it’s starting to break down. Make sure you use a water-based or silicone-based lube instead.
If your chosen condom is made of polyurethane, then it is safe to use oil, water or silicone based lubricants. While silicone-based lubes can last longer than water-based lubes, they can be irritating for people with sensitive skin and a big no: they damage silicone sex toys. Protect this atmosphere at all costs!
Which lubricant is safe to use with all condoms?
If you’re not sure what your condoms are made of, always choose a water-based lubricant to be safe. It is compatible with all condoms and sex toys and is generally kinder to the body. Water-based lube is also less likely to cause infections, unlike oil-based lubes that can trap bacteria in and around the genitals. Go ahead, add some pumps to the next one sex sesh – and tell us how you’re doing…
