How to find the best lubricant for your needs?

 

Search for the word "lubricant" on Amazon and you will get more results than a person can parse in a lifetime. Among the countless oil-based, water-based and silicon-based lubricants on the market, it is difficult to know where to start.

"Water-based lubricants are not as'slip' as oil-based lubricants, but they are usually compatible with condoms and toys, while most oil-based lubricants are not," explains Karyn Eilber, MD, who is from Beverly Hills Urologist and founder of lubricant company Glissant. "Water-based lubricants also dry faster than oil-based lubricants."

Then there is silica gel, an ultra-smooth synthetic substitute. "Silicone lubricants last longer," said Renee Horowitz, MD, an obstetrician and gynecologist in Farmington Hills, Michigan. Although silicone lubricants are safe to use with condoms, they may deteriorate the surface of sex toys. Dr. Horowitz pointed out that they have a tendency to become sticky: "This may be problematic, but some people really like it. they."

No matter what kind of lubricant you are buying, there are several factors to keep in mind. "Common chemicals used in [lubricants] are parabens, propylene glycol, phthalates and glycerin, all of which can cause irritation and infection," said Dr. Elber. "FDA approval is another important consideration... a lubricant is considered a medical device, and FDA approval helps convince consumers that the lubricant has undergone extensive testing."

"Generally, the simpler the ingredients, the better," adds Christine Gutierrez, MD, a New York obstetrician and gynecologist. "Lubricants containing spermicide (nonoxynol-9) should be avoided because they can damage the skin and increase the risk of infection."

If you plan to use oil-based lubricants, Dr. Eilber said it is important to consider the product's carrier oil, or oil used to dilute other ingredients and protect the skin. "Coconut oil, almond oil and grape seed oil are all good carrier oils because they have natural anti-inflammatory effects, while coconut oil has natural antibacterial and antifungal effects," she said.

According to Dr. Horowitz, women of all ages can benefit from a good lubricant during intercourse. "A lot of women do feel dry when having sex, even young women," she explained. "If you are taking birth control pills, it is even more difficult. The pill will reduce lubrication."

Dr. Gutierrez agreed with this view and stated that “it is always worth mentioning that by prolonging foreplay tends to increase natural lubrication.”

Obviously, there are many factors to consider when trying new lubricants, which is why we search the Internet for the best option. Keep scrolling to learn more about our top ten selected products, all of which are free of glycerin, parabens and phthalates.