Condoms, Lubes & More

About Lube

Sex is like a car; proper lubrication makes sure every moving part stays in working order. But unlike a car, a good lube job may make sex much louder, because it feels great! Too often, people believe lube is only for people who experience vaginal dryness. Though lube is effective and encouraged in that regard, it’s also a great means to increase sensation. A small dab will make masturbation, hand jobs, or fingering much more pleasurable, will make massages extra slick, foreplay extra playful, and penetration much smoother. While any lube will better facilitate the sex you want to have, lubes vary by base, sensation, formula and more. 

Water-based lubes are the prevalent style of lube. With water as the main ingredient, this versatile base of lube is safe for all sex toys, safe for condoms, tasteless, and non-staining to bedsheets. Its only downfall is that it can get tacky sooner than other lubes, which is easily solved by adding more lube or reactivating it with saliva. 

Silicone-based lubes use body-safe synthetic silicone to make an extra-slick, long-lasting formula safe for use with condoms. Silicone molecules aren’t absorbed into the skin like those in water-based lubes, meaning a small dab goes a long way, making them great for anal sex, where natural lubrication isn’t produced. Note that silicone lubes may stain sheets, and should not be used with silicone sex toys, as they may break down the material. 

Oil-based lubes may be composed of natural oils like coconut oil or synthetic oils to make a thick, long-lasting lube. These lubes are used for massages, anal sex, and even fisting, but are not compatible with condoms, as they may break down the material. Toy and vaginal usage vary, depending on chemical makeup and personal sensitivities. 

Hybrid lubes combine bases of lubes to mix the best properties of each. For example, some hybrid lubes may include silicone ingredients to stay slippery, but are diluted with a water-based lube to ensure compatibility with toys. Or some may combine silicone ingredients with oil bases for an extra-slick, long-lasting lube. Formulas vary here, so check the label for ingredients and intended uses.  

Anal lubes are formulated especially for anal sex. Lube is CRUCIAL for anal sex, since the anus is not self-lubricating like a vagina or mouth. While any lube will suffice, anal lubes are specially formulated to have a thicker bead for extra cushioning and longer usage. 

Flavored lubes add flavoring to water-based lubes to add some zip to your playtime. They’re like toppings for your erogenous zones! Try some sour apple flavor to put the “tang” in “poontang,” or bubblegum to make a blowjob taste like a blow pop! 

Warming and cooling lubes contain natural ingredients to simulate heating or cooling sensations with friction, and sometimes even a mixture of both! By adding these stimulating sensations, physical contact is new and interesting with every application. 

Hypoallergenic lubes are formulated to ensure that even the most sensitive bodies can be properly lubricated. While ingredients like aloe or aspartame may be moisturizing or sweetening to most users, they can cause irritation in others. These lubes are minimalist only in their ingredient list, not in their slickness! 

About Sexual Hygiene  

Sex is delightfully dirty, but that doesn’t mean that you have to be! When you’re sharing intimate moments with a partner, consider sexual hygiene products to avoid irritation and to take precautions not to share any bacteria or STIs. And it doesn’t hurt to try grooming products to motivate your partner to dive in head first! 

Condoms are still the standard in protection from STIs and pregnancy. Condoms are not only limited to latex, with lifelike polyisoprene available for those with allergies or sensitivities. Textured and flavored condoms also provide a fun, unique experience. 

Lubes come in an endless combination of formulas, and some users might find common ingredients irritating. Many lube manufacturers take note and make formulas that are specialized to avoid irritation, avoiding ingredients such as glycerine, propylene glycol, or artificial sugars. Some lubes even contain moisturizing ingredients like aloe to combat dryness. 

Body care products ensure you stay clean and fresh! A little extra time spent on grooming and moisturizing can boost cleanliness and confidence, while a spritz of fragrance can help set the mood, and a good bath bomb can help you wind down after a long day and before a fun encounter. 

Menstrual cups are a reusable, simple alternative to other menstrual care products. The flexible, yet sturdy silicone material slips in comfortably for longer periods of use than your average tampon or pad, and is reusable to cut down on waste.