Snippets
- Should definitely be pH balanced
- Oil-based lubricants associated with higher rates of Candida
- Before using for the first time, test a small amount on you and your partner
What to avoid at all costs
When you go lube shopping, you’re going to find all sorts of options out there: flavored, natural, warming, tingling. These lubes can be fun, but be careful to look at the ingredients and test the pH value of over-the-counter products with litmus strips.
A healthy vagina should maintain a pH level of 3.5 to 4.5, so the lube you use should also be around the same level. If the lube doesn’t list the pH level, don’t buy it.
The following may cause irritation or inflammation:
- glycerin
- nonoxynol-9
- petroleum
- propylene glycol
- chlorhexidine gluconate
Types
- Water based lubricants containing glycerin are popular. However, glycerin free options may be more suitable for people who get frequent yeast infections.
- Silicone based lubricants last longer than water based lubricants, making them a good option for people with severe vaginal dryness or a history of pain during sex. They are not safe to use with silicone sex toys, though, and they can be greasy.
- Oil based lubricants include many readily available products, such as kitchen oils. They are usually edible and are safe for the vagina, but they can be messy. Synthetic oil based lubricants, such as mineral oil and petroleum jelly, can work well but may also irritate the vulva.
No lube, household items that may be good as lube?
Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera gel is a suitable natural lubricant. In fact, some commercial lubricants use aloe vera gel as the main ingredient.
In theory, the water content in 100% aloe vera products makes them relatively safe to use with latex condoms. However, there is not enough scientific research to support this claim.
Baby Oil
It isn’t recommended. Do not use it as lube. Mineral oil-based products like baby oil can increase your risk of vaginal infection and can break down latex condoms.
Coconut Oil
Yes, it is generally a safe, natural lube option. It can alleviate friction and vaginal dryness.
However, you’ll want to keep in mind that unrefined coconut oil has less processing and bleaching. You’ll also want to get a fresh jar that is dedicated to sexual play to keep things as clean as possible.
Olive Oil
Not easy to clean up and may leave marks on clothes and bedsheets.
Vaseline
Rather don’t. [In a 2013 study involving 141 women from the United States, women who used petroleum jelly as a sexual lubricant had a higher risk of developing bacterial vaginosis than those who used other products and methods.]
Whet Lubricant Ingredients
We are also launching a 100% Natural product shortly that does not contain propylene glycol or glycerine
Ingredients: Aqua, Propylene Glycol, Glycerine, Cellulose, Citric Acid, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Flavour