When it comes to mind-blowing, mind-blowing sex, a great lube can make the difference between an unforgettable experience… and one that falls a little flat. Personal lubricant makes for a comfortable, smoother and more enjoyable encounter. The problem is: Most lubes are loaded with questionable ingredients that can throw off your pH and leave your overall vaginal health in a lurch—talk about a slippery slope.
We’re here to explain everything you need to know about lubricants, from ingredients to avoid to body-safe brands (La Nuafor example) to add to your shopping list. With the right solution, you can ensure that your adventures stay exciting and your health rises.
Lubricating ingredients to avoid
You want to be able to trust the pleasure products in your game chest. But when it comes to lube, that’s easier said than done. It may sound surprising, but many popular over-the-counter lubes are full of things you don’t want anywhere near your vagina.
Here’s a short list of common harmful ingredients to avoid when buying lube:
Parabens
Parabens may be great at keeping your lube fresh, but they’re also a little sneaky hormonal disruptors. Are you mimicking estrogen in your body? No thanks! These guys can mess with your reproductive health and even increase your risk of certain cancers.
Glycerin
Glycerin is a seemingly harmless ingredient that can cause yeast infections and vaginal irritation. If you are prone to yeast infections, we recommend avoiding this bittersweet ingredient.
Petrochemicals
Petrochemicals — sounds like something you’d find at a gas station, not your oil, right? Well, you will be surprised. Originally derived from petroleum, petrochemicals can disrupt your natural flora, causing irritation, infections and general discomfort.
Artificial fragrances
Artificial fragrances are prohibited (this includes “perfume”, “perfume oil” or “perfume”). They are often filled with chemicals that can cause itching, allergic reactions, and even affect your pH. (Think: Surprise UTIs, yeast infections, and BV.) A happy vagina is balanced bayso avoid oils with synthetic fragrances or anything that sounds like it should be in a Yankee Candle store.
Divinely
Sulfates may make your shampoo foamy, but it is too hard for your hoo-ha. These detergents can strip away natural moisture and leave you feeling dry and irritated. (Literally, the last thing you want to feel when you wear it.)
Alcohol
Alcohol may be great for happy hour, but it’s definitely not welcome in your lube. It dries everything out, which can lead to irritation, discomfort, and even tiny tears that make you more susceptible to infection. The best way to keep your honeypot happy? Stick to alcohol-free lubricants.
Types of Lubricants (plus What to Look For)
When choosing your new favorite lube, knowing the different types on the market and what to look for can make all the difference in ensuring your best contact yet. Consider these “tried and true” when it comes to different types of lubricants.
Water based lubricant
Advantages: Water-based lubricants are the most common. You might have some on your nightstand! If so, you’ll know that they go perfectly with condoms and sex toys.
Disadvantages: When things get hot in the bag, you don’t necessarily want to stop and reapply. These oils dry quickly, so keep that in mind.
How to shop it: Check labels to make sure glycerin and parabens are not part of the recipe. Look for the term “pH balanced” as a hint if you’re concerned about effectiveness.
Silicone based lubricant
Advantages: If you and your S/O were known to (ahem) go the distance, silicone based lubes are the way to go. These lubes are long-lasting and, as a bonus, perfect for sexy moments in the bath or shower.
Disadvantages: Although it may seem counterintuitive, silicone-based lubricants are not compatible with silicone sex toys. They can degrade the game’s hardware over time, causing it to become stuck, damaged, or broken. Plus, silicone-based lubes are hard to clean up—not quite the mess you’re usually after when the game starts.
How to shop it: Make sure your choice is 100% silicone with no added fragrances or colors.
Natural or organic lubricant
Advantages: Natural lubricants are often made with soothing ingredients like aloe vera. This means they are usually free of irritating chemicals, are gentle on the skin and are unlikely to cause irritation.
Disadvantages: Don’t expect organic oils to perform like synthetic oils. They won’t last that long, so prepare to apply, apply, apply. They also have a hefty price tag.
How to shop it: A few key words will tell you if the juice is worth squeezing into a natural lubricant. See: Certified organic, for one. You’ll also want to look for a short ingredient list with mostly mild ingredients.
How to use Lube
Here’s how to get the most out of your lube experience:
A little goes a long way. Too much lube can be messy and not in a good way. Practice judiciously when applying your lube.
Reapply as needed to maximize comfort. Don’t be shy – apply again! While it may feel like an uncomfortable interruption at first, it will be worth it when things are smooth and comfortable.
Store properly for best results. Keep your lube in a cool, dry place between uses. This will ensure it stays fresh and effective for longer.
Test in small doses. We know. When your new La Nua lube arrives in the mail, you might be tempted to go crazy. Try to contain that excitement for a little skin test to make sure it’s compatible with your body and preferences before you go ham.
Double check compatibility with condoms and toys: If your partner “puts on his party hat,” make sure your lube is compatible with condoms (or whatever toys you’re using) to avoid damage or reduced effectiveness. Tip: This is especially painful with latex or silicone.
The bottom line
Choosing a body-safe lube isn’t just about spicing up your sex life—it’s about prioritizing your vaginal health. By choosing lubricants that are free of harmful ingredients, you can protect your body while ensuring a more comfortable, enjoyable experience. Remember, your sexual health and satisfaction go hand in hand, so it’s worth taking the time to find the best sex lube.
Whether you’re looking for silicone lube vs. water-based lube, looking for good lube alternatives, or trying to find the best lube for anal play or flavoring options, there’s something to satisfy your wants and needs.
And, if you want our two cents, we recommend La Nua. They are committed to the purest ingredients so your vaginal health is protected, and that’s exactly what it is a the reason we love them. La Nua products are expertly formulated with pure, effective ingredients. Plus, with a variety of body-safe flavors, there really is something for everyone in their product line. (We’re obsessed with them Vanilla butter with honey.)
