Lots of people think you only need added lubricants for when your own personal lubrication is lacking, but the reality is that lube can transform good sex into GREAT! If you've not tried lube before, the range can be a bit bewildering so here's a handy breakdown.
Water-Based
These lubes mimic vaginal lubrication, but can wear off quickly as the water evaporates. These are safe for all toys and orifices, and can come in a variety of textures, from thin/watery to gel-like (like our Sliquid Sassy). In general, the thicker the texture, the longer it will last. Water-based lubes are easily absorbed into skin, but you can reactivate them by adding a drop of water!
Silicone
These lubes might cost slightly more, but you may need less and they last a long time... to the point where you may need to use soap & water to remove it completely. Silicone lubes are safe for use with condoms, but not with most silicone toys - you will need to do a patch test first. The texture of these lubes tends to be silky and smooth (check out our Sliquid Silver), and is great for anal play.
Hybrid
These lubes are a creamy blend of water-based with a bit of silicone which makes them soft and long-lasting (see our Sliquid Silk). These can generally be used with silicone toys and condoms, but the taste can be bitter, so avoid using them orally.
Oil-Based
Great for massages, and often used for anal play, oil-based lubes have a couple of major issues - they are NOT latex-friendly, and can irritate vaginas. Skip the oil-based lubes if you're using gloves, condoms or dental dams, or vaginal sex.
Flavoured
The tastes of these can vary wildly. We recommend the Sliquid Swirls range, but maybe try smaller sachets or bottles before you invest. These lubes are usually water-based.
Warming/Cooling
If you're after a little more sensation with your lube, give these a try. Durex and KY both make interesting versions that are water-based and probably in your local supermarket.
Desensitising
These are usually oil-based lubes containing ingredients like lignocaine, used for anal play. The biggest down side to these is that you can't judge your body's limits when sensations are numb, and pain is something to which you should pay attention!
