Lube is one of those amazing sex hacks youre probably not using enough.
Want less pain and friction?
Want better sex all around?
It provides a barrier against friction from a penis, hand, or sex toy.
It helps you experience less pain during penetration and increased sensitivity.
Lube makes everything better.
It can even make your orgasms better and stronger.
But for something so right, theres also an awful lot we getwrongabout lube.
Here, Engle tackles some of the most common misunderstandings and myths about lube.
You might also want to try out different types to determine what works best for you.
Water-based
Water-based lube is kind of the jack-of-all-trades of personal lubricant, Engle says.
It goes with every kind of sexual act and you never really have to think about it.
When in doubt, always choose a water-based option.
Water-based lubricants also work best with condoms and sex toys.
This wont be the case for all brands, but definitely most of them, even high quality ones.
You barely ever have to reapply.
Its ideal for anal play.
It is super slide-y, making it perfect for easy access.
Downsides: Silicone toys are not compatible with silicone lube, she points out.
You get all the benefits of water-based versatility and silicone-based slipperiness.
Its kind of a little miracle in a bottle.
Downsides: Sometimes a hybrid lube can still damage silicone toys, but its less likely, she says.
Check the labels to be sure.
The recommendations below wont damage your toys.
Flavored lube can irritate the vulva, she says.
They are often full of glycerine, which feeds the yeast in your vagina.
Hello, yeast infection!
Stick with some flavorless, odorless, and organic.
Plant-based
For those who want something more organic or homemade, Engle recommends a plant-based option.
If you want to go all-natural, a plant-based lube is your go-to, she says.
[Plant] oil-based lubes stay the F on there.
Aloe vera, while not oil-based, is a favorite of Sex Coaching legend Betty Dodson.
She even uses it in all of her hands-on workshops.
Plus, it’s possible for you to buy all plant-based options at your local health food store.
Want to get more creative at home?
It makes sex better, no matter your age, she says.
Engle adds that no matter what your age is, friction does not make vulvas or anuses happy.
It doesnt mean there is something wrong with you.
It doesnt mean you are broken.
No matter how wet your vagina gets naturally, theres always room for lube.
If you dont use lube during anal, you will definitely be in pain and could cause tearing.
Lube should also be used during hand sex, as your hand is dry and this will cause friction.
Additionally, she suggests lube to be used with toys as it creates a barrier and heightened sensation.
But no, being too wet is a myth born out of shame and misogyny, she says.
Id say the only really common mistake is not using enough of it.
Be as generous as possible.
When you dont use enough, it doesnt work as well.
If it gets tacky or starts to feel dry, dont be shy about getting some more.
