Should You Choose Water-Based Lube Or Silicone-based Lube?
Using lube is like maintaining a well-oiled machine: it reduces friction and makes the whole experience smoother. No matter your age, sexual orientation, or anatomy, using lube can improve sex and masturbation. Finding the right balance of wetness and friction can help increase sensation and pleasure for both of you.
And while ancient civilizations had to resort to DIY solutions like olive oil, we now have a wide range of personal lubricants designed specifically for various purposes. But with so many options out there, a lot of people have trouble deciding which lube will best suit their needs.
What types of lubricants exist?
There are several types of lubricants available. Water-based lubricants consist primarily of water, which can absorb into the upper layers of the skin, thereby moisturizing it. They offer excellent lubricating properties. Silicone-based lubricants are composed mainly of silicone, and as these molecules remain on the skin, they provide long-lasting lubrication. These are the two most common options that we'll be exploring in this guide, but there are also hybrid lubes, which combine the benefits of these two formulas, and oil-based lubricants, which aren't water-soluble. Please note that oil-based ones are incompatible with latex and sex toys, and may lead to infections.
How to choose the right lube: water-based or silicone?
While both water-based and silicone lubes are body-safe options used to combat dryness, discomfort, and friction, there are some key differences that you should be aware of.
Benefits of using silicone lubricant
Silicone lubricant is long-lasting and has an incredibly plush, silky texture. There's a reason it's been our top bestseller for decades! It doesn't need to be reapplied throughout and has a sensual feel, making it perfect for partnered encounters where you don?t want to be interrupted. It's also compatible with latex condoms.
Because you only use a bit at a time, this lubricant has exceptional longevity, and one bottle can last a long time. Additionally, it's the best option for individuals who are allergic or sensitive to the ingredients in water-based lubricants. If you have sensitive skin or skin allergies, silicone formulas are hypoallergenic and won't irritate you during your sexual activities, since they're naturally pH balanced and don't require artificial balancing.
It's ideal for anal use and shower play
During anal play, you'll want to use a liberal amount of long-lasting lube, which silicone is perfect for. Its slickness and endurance make a silicone base a great anal lube because, unlike the vagina, the anus does not produce any natural lubricant. There are even lubes like pjur BACK DOOR Relaxing that are especially moisturizing. The same qualities that make silicone lube the preferred choice for anal make it perfect for use during shower and bath play, as it won't wash off in the water. It's also safe to use with latex condoms.
It's perfect for foreplay
Because of its ultra-long-lasting nature, silicone lube is a luxurious and sensual add-on to extended foreplay and erotic massages - think of it as a high-end body oil that can be used on intimate areas, caressing nipples and erogenous as well as other body parts for a sexy rubdown. It offers a seamless transition from a massage to more intimate stimulation.
Things to consider when using silicone lube
While our silicone formula is high-quality and body-safe, we can't guarantee the same for all silicone toys on the market. Because lower-quality silicone toys may react unpredictably, we generally recommend using a water-based lube if you're playing with silicone toys. Additionally, while silicone lubes have an undeniably luxurious and soft feel on the skin, they may stain fabric if not washed after usage.
Benefits of using water-based lubricant
Water-based lubricants are 100% condom-safe and have a slippery texture. They're compatible with all toys and are the most popular option to use if you're
playing with silicone sex toys. They're also often a more budget-friendly alternative to silicone lubricant.
Due to the versatility of water-based lube, many consider it the best universal lubricant. It can be used during anal, oral, and vaginal sex and is often pH-balanced, making it ideal for vaginal health. A water-based lube absorbs into the skin quickly and never stains bedsheets, making cleanup easier and leaving your skin more moisturized.
You can use it for an erotic massage
Due to the gentle and versatile nature of this kind of lube, it's perfect to use for a sensual massage during your foreplay, just like silicone lube. Water-based formula are known for absorbing quickly into the skin without residue, so you can take your massage to the next level with ease.
Things to consider before using water-based lube
If you're using toys, this kind of lubricant is ideal. However, if you're engaging in anal play, you'll need to apply this lube more frequently as it may dry out in contexts where extra lubrication is needed or extended play is going to take place.
How to use lube
- Not sure how to use lube? Look no further.
- Choose the right lube for your activity.
- Squeeze a dime-sized amount into your palm, which will require less cleanup than squeezing it directly on the genitals. Start with just a few drops before applying more, as using too much lube can reduce sensation.
- Warm the lubricant in your hands before applying it to any erogenous zone to make for a more comfortable experience.
- If you're having anal penetration, use a larger amount of lube.
- Reapply as needed.
Using a lube applicator
A lube applicator, or a lube shooter, can provide more precise application and can be helpful during anal play in delivering lubrication inside the anus and not just around the entrance. Make sure the applicator is clean, insert the tip, and use the handle to dispense the desired amount of lube. After depressing the plunger, slowly dispense the lube as you carefully remove it.
Altering sensation with sensation-enhancing lubes and orgasm gels
Formulas like pjur WOMAN Nude offer superior, frictionless glide with an ultra-slick feel. While this lube can enhance sexual sensation on its own, it can also be layered with other external products for added sensation. One of the most exciting new options is pjur WOMAN Lust - an orgasm gel intended for external use only. It contains Spilanthes Acmella Flower extract, an ingredient known for its unique tingling sensation. Designed for clitoral play, this stimulating orgasm gel can heighten sensitivity when paired with sex toys during partnered or solo play.
Lube for sensitive skin
If you have sensitive skin, silicone formulas are designed specifically for this purpose to minimize irritation, with pjur med PREMIUM Glide being the top option for sensitive bodies. These products don't contain any glycerin, parabens, preservatives, perfumes, or synthetic colors. If you do prefer a water-based formula, formulas like pjur AQUA Naked are popular water-based options that are ideal for sensitive skin and work to protect dry skin and the mucous membrane. Some lubricants even include hyaluron, which is used in skincare to help moisturize.
Exploring lube on different erogenous zones
While lube is fantastic for making vaginal as well as anal sex and even masturbation exponentially more fun and pleasurable, it can also be used on different erogenous zones such as the nipples and inner thighs. Use fingers or mouth, or any other part of the body to trace patterns on the skin or pinch and pull and scratch to explore different sensations with a slippery smooth texture.
Lube isn't just for older women
Some people worry that there's something wrong with them if they need lube, or believe the myth that lube is only for older women experiencing menopause. While a symptom of menopause can be sexual dryness, there are many reasons why dryness can occur, leading to painful sex. This includes high stress levels, fluctuating hormones, conditions like endometriosis, or medication side effects. And even if you don't have any of the above, natural lubrication isn't always there, and that's perfectly normal!
Don't go DIY with lube or use saliva
If you don't have anything on hand, it might be tempting to opt for body oil, Vaseline, or lotion. However, these products can be irritants and even lead to infections. Additionally, using cheap formulas can do the same as low-quality lube can contain fragrances, additives, and other chemicals. Some people even swear by coconut oil, and while this is better than the above option, using plant-based oils may disrupt vaginal pH for many.
Therefore, stick to high-quality formulas that are made by experts specifically for use in delicate areas of the body. Pjur formulas are regulated as a medical device, which ensures the highest safety testing and medical-grade ingredients which can give you peace of mind for daily use.
Finally, don't use saliva instead of lube! While it might be wet in the moment, it makes a terrible lubricant as it's not slippery and will dry out quickly, creating friction. Saliva can also transmit STIs and bacteria.
The bottom line
Both types of lubricant have different pros. What you choose will depend on your lifestyle, what activity you're using lube for, and your specific needs. Ultimately, it's up to you to decide which lubricant you feel more comfortable with and which will bring more pleasure to your sex life.
