Using lube during sex, masturbation and with your sex toys will without question improve your sexual experience. Lube adds to the sensuality of pretty much any sexual encounter. So how do you pick the lube that is right for you?
Remember to use the right lube. That is to say it depends on the sexual act you are participating in and the toys involved. Some lubes are not good for condoms can also disintegrate them and some can damage certain sex toys, some also work better for anal sex and others for masturbation. Also don't forget there is the natural lube of your saliva which might work just fine for you!
There are 4 different kinds of manufactured lube: Water-based, silicone-based, petroleum-based and those that are made from natural oils. Each one has its pros and cons.
Water-based Lubes: These are the most versatile type of lubes. They are very popular and safe for all situations. In general they are made from de-ionized water, glycerin, and propylene glycol, and they are safe for use with condoms and all kinds of barrier contraception. It is unusual that water-based lubes trigger inflammation, and they do not stain clothes. They are safe to consume, and they are available in both unflavored and flavored ranges which can definately contribute to the enjoyment of foreplay.
Silicone-based lubes: These have the advantages of water-based lubes with the addition of being water resistant, so they could be good for use in the bath, or the Jacuzzi. Also, they tend lube up longer than water-based lubes. Silicone will not harm latex, so they're safe with condoms and other kinds of barrier contraception; nevertheless, they can damage adult toys made from silicone.
Petroleum-based lubes: These include mineral oil products, vaseline products and also baby oil. Unfortunatley these types of products destroy latex so they cannot be used in conjunction cervical caps, diaphragms or condoms. They can also irritate the vagina. They also stain clothes. Petroleum-based however last a long time, so a lot of men use them for masturbation.
Natural oil-based lubes: These are made from natural oil sources such as vegetables or nuts. Like petroleum-based lubes, they also ruin latex (condoms, diaphragms and cervical caps) and stain clothes. Nevertheless, they do have one crucial benefit over petroleum-based lubes: they do not trigger vaginal inflammation. This makes them great for female and male masturbation, unprotected penetrative sexual intercourse, and for massage.
So the way to pick the best lube for you is to think about what you are using it for and what you will be using it with. Make sure it works with the contraception and sex toys you will be using. Once you know that all that is left is to have some fun!
There is a prevalent misconception amongst men and women that men