Just The Tips: Choosing The Right Lube

So many lubes! So little time! How can you choose? Though I'd highly recommend consulting a doctor or an employee at a gay (or gay-friendly) sex shop, we're going to try our best to educate you on your options. With the perfect lubricant, good sex can become better. Bad sex can become… er, slightly less bad and more slippery. So what do you say? Let's get slick, wet and ready for action!

– Dewitt

Photo credit: Fratpad

To check out our advice on lube selection, follow the JUMP:

Water-based lube: As far as lubricants go, water-based lubes are most readily available. They're compatible with latex, so they work well when practicing safer sex. Also, they're generally more easy to clean off your body and bed-sheets. The downside? They tend to dry out faster and need to be reapplied more often. They're also not suitable for sex in hot tubs, pools or showers (for hopefully obvious reasons). Different brands may vary in viscosity and slipperiness. 

Silicone-based lube: Unlike water-based lubricants, silicone-based products aren't absorbed by the skin. They stay on the surface to provide a more durable glide, which results in less reapplication or "sticky" feelings. They can also be used for playing in water, but will wash out when soap comes into the equation. It's important to read labels of silicone-based lubes, as some of them aren't compatible with condoms. They should also not be used with silicone sex toys. If they are, the lubricant will cause the toy to dissolve, becoming sticky in the process. Silicone-based lubes are also more likely to leave stains, but they should wash out in the laundry.

Oil-based lube: These lubes should only be used for masturbation and massage, as they aren't compatible with condoms or sex toys. Some experts say they're okay for fisting, as latex gloves are generally thicker than condoms. Some even say they are ideal, given that they're slicker, thicker and long-lasting. Oh, and these babies leave stains!

Anal-sex specialty lube: There are many lubes on the market that are specifically marketed towards anal sex enthusiasts, particularly gay men. Many of these contain benzocaine, a numbing agent that will relax the anal area. Unfortunately, it may also numb anything it comes in contact with. On top of that, they may even numb sensations of pain, which can result in injury. Consult a doctor or professional before choosing one of these lubes.

These are just a few of your options! If you're curious, other options such as warming lubes, cooling lubes, flavored lubes and organic lubes are available. Each serve various purposes and have their pros & cons. Make sure to read labels and product descriptions before making your purchase. Like I said before, it can never hurt to ask for help! You may feel awkward, but ask an employee at a sex shop for advice. Trust me, they've heard weirder questions…