Using Lubricant for Couples: 11 Helpful Tips
Enhancing a couple’s sexual experience often involves mastering the art of using lubricant. What exactly is lubricating gel, and how can it be applied effectively?
For up to half of all couples, incorporating lubricating gel into their sexual routine has been shown to facilitate achieving orgasm. If you’re looking to elevate arousal and emotional satisfaction during intimate moments, familiarizing yourself with the proper application of lubricating gel could prove beneficial.
Understanding Lubricant
Let’s delve into the realm of lubricating gel – its benefits, applications, and how to ensure its safe use without compromising your well-being.
So, what exactly is lubricating gel, or lube? It’s a specialized product designed to alleviate friction during sexual activity, particularly between the penis and vagina or any other bodily contact points. This product can be particularly valuable for women who might experience vaginal dryness.
Varieties of lubricants are available in the market today:
1. Water-Based Lubricants
These types of lubes are water-soluble, making them easy to clean and widely popular.
- Astroglide: A well-known brand offering a variety of water-based lubricants suitable for various types of intimate activities.
- Sliquid Sliquid: offers a range of water-based lubes that are free from harsh chemicals, glycerin, and parabens, making them a popular choice among people with sensitive skin.
- K-Y Jelly is one of the most well-known and widely available water-based lubricants on the market. It’s been used for intimate purposes as well as for medical applications like inserting medical instruments. K-Y Jelly is often found in various formulations to cater to different preferences and sensitivities.
- YES: YES offers organic and natural water-based lubricants that are designed to be gentle and suitable for sensitive skin.
- Wet: Wet offers a diverse lineup of water-based lubes with different sensations and formulas, catering to various preferences.
- Überlube: Although primarily known for their silicone-based lubricant, Überlube also offers a water-based version that is popular for its versatility and compatibility with various activities.
- Good Clean Love: This brand focuses on creating natural and organic intimate products, including water-based lubricants.
- JO H2O: JO H2O offers a range of water-based lubes known for their long-lasting properties and variety of formulas.
- Pjur Aqua: Pjur is known for producing a variety of lubricants, including water-based options that are designed for both intimate and general uses.
- System JO: System JO offers a wide range of water-based lubricants with different consistencies and sensations to suit different preferences.
- Sliquid Naturals: This line from Sliquid focuses on natural, water-based lubricants that are free from harsh chemicals.
- Pink: Pink offers a range of water-based lubes that are designed to be gentle and long-lasting, suitable for various types of play.
- Intimate Earth: Intimate Earth offers a selection of natural and organic water-based lubricants with different botanical infusions.
2. Oil-Based Lubricants
While these can be effective, they have a significant downside – they can degrade condoms, rendering them unreliable against both unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. Due to the challenges of cleansing and the potential for harboring infections, it’s best to avoid this type.
- Coconu: Coconu offers oil-based lubricants that are formulated with organic coconut oil, providing a natural and moisturizing option for intimate activities.
- Southern Butter: This brand offers a range of oil-based lubricants made from natural ingredients, often featuring blends of different oils for a smooth and sensual experience.
- GUN OIL: GUN OIL is known for its line of high-quality intimate products, including oil-based lubricants designed for long-lasting comfort and pleasure.
- Bijoux Indiscrets: This brand offers a variety of intimate products, including oil-based lubricants designed to enhance sensual experiences and provide a silky-smooth feel.
- Exsens: Exsens produces a range of sensual products, including oil-based lubricants infused with various natural ingredients for different sensations and aromas.
3. Silicone-Based Lubricants
These boast a thicker consistency and superior adhesion compared to water-based alternatives, resulting in longer-lasting effects on the skin. Additionally, they don’t dissolve easily, even when used during bath-time intimacy.
- Pjur Original: Pjur is a well-known brand that offers a variety of silicone-based lubricants, including their popular Pjur Original formula.
- LELO: LELO offers a range of intimate products, including silicone-based lubricants designed for a luxurious and long-lasting experience.
- Wet Platinum: Wet Platinum is a brand that specializes in silicone-based lubricants known for their durability and smooth texture.
- Swiss Navy: Swiss Navy offers a line of silicone-based lubricants that are designed to provide long-lasting lubrication without getting sticky.
- Überlube: In addition to their water-based lubricant, Überlube also offers a high-quality silicone-based lubricant known for its versatility and performance.
4. Hybrid Lubricants
As the name suggests, hybrid lubes combine attributes from other types to offer a balanced experience. Typically blending water and silicone-based components, these lubes provide the slipperiness of water-based options without quick absorption or drying. They’re also safe for use with latex condoms and sex toys.
- Sliquid Silk: Sliquid offers the Silk line of hybrid lubricants, combining water-based and silicone-based properties for a smooth and long-lasting experience.
- System JO Hybrid: System JO provides a hybrid lubricant that merges the benefits of both water-based and silicone-based lubes, offering a unique texture and durability.
- Wicked Sensual Care Hybrid: Wicked Sensual Care offers a hybrid lubricant that aims to provide the best of both worlds by combining water-based and silicone-based qualities.
- Pjur Man Xtend Cream: Pjur’s Man Xtend Cream is a hybrid formula designed specifically for men, offering a blend of water-based and silicone-based ingredients.
- Fifty Shades of Grey Hybrid: Inspired by the popular book series, the Fifty Shades of Grey brand offers a hybrid lubricant that provides a mix of water-based and silicone-based benefits.
Lube Alternatives: Safe Options When Lube Isn’t Available
Safely Embracing Lube: 11 Guidelines
- Thoughtful Product Selection
Before application, exercise caution in choosing lubricating products, considering the following:
– Avoid purchasing opened products or those with broken or missing seals.
– Scrutinize the expiration date to ensure long-lasting usability.
– Verify the safety of the product’s ingredients.
– Perform a patch test on a small wrist area to check for any irritation or itching; refrain from use if adverse reactions occur.
- Moderation is Key
Most lube instructions advocate for using a moderate amount per sexual encounter. Excessive application can result in wastage and difficulty washing off, potentially leading to gynecological infections. This holds especially true for oil and silicone-based options. However, feel free to use ample water-based lube as needed.
Post-intercourse, maintain perineal hygiene by rinsing off residual gel to prevent infection. The same principle applies to cleaning sex toys after use.
- Sensual Massage with Lube
Prior to engaging in intimate acts, partners can utilize lubricating gel for a sensual massage. This practice heightens sensations across various body regions like the back, nipples, shoulders, and even delicate areas such as earlobes.
Employing lubricating gel as a “warm-up” ritual can greatly enhance the overall sexual experience. For an optimal massage, cleanse your hands with soap before applying the gel. Then, gently massage your partner’s body.
- Lube in the Shower
To prevent discomfort, refrain from mixing lube with shower gel or shampoo before engaging in sexual activity, as this could lead to genital irritation.
- Flavored Lube for Oral Pleasure
Flavored lubricants can ease potential discomfort during oral sex, introducing an element of taste and aroma to enhance the sensory experience. These lubes are particularly popular among individuals who anticipate direct oral contact.
Choose a flavor that appeals to you, apply it to your partner, and indulge in a pleasurable experience together.
- Explore Sensations with Chilled Lube
Experience a unique twist by storing some lube in the refrigerator for foreplay. This adds an exciting element of thrill and coolness to your intimate moments.
Apply the cooled lube to areas like your nipples, lips, the nape of your neck, and other delicately sensitive parts of your body.
- Elevate Pleasure with Manual Stimulation
When engaging with a male partner, lube can significantly enhance a manual stimulation session. Begin by caressing his thighs and pelvis, then progress to the upper and lower sections of his penis. Apply varying pressure and gentle squeezing along the shaft, and focus on the tip of the penis for an extraordinary sensation.
Craft a ring shape using your thumb and forefinger, and delicately glide it over the penis’s tip. For the shaft, employ both hands to create a soothing massage.
- Comfortable Anal Play with Lube
For those curious about anal exploration, whether light touch or full penetration, lube is an essential aid to facilitate a comfortable experience for both partners.
Initiate with a gentle massage of the buttocks, gradually moving from the outer regions towards the perineum and external anus, gauging sensations. If at ease, apply extra lubricating gel before engaging in anal activity.
- Utilizing Lube Inside Condoms
Enhance sensitivity by introducing a small amount of lube inside the condom. Keep in mind, this can potentially lead to a looser fit and increased chances of slippage, particularly during vigorous positions.
- Lube for Masturbation Delight
Elevate your solo experience with the aid of lube. Opt for a water-based or natural lubricant to prevent irritation.
However, exercise caution. Any leftover lube post-masturbation can foster bacteria growth, potentially leading to infections. Prioritize hygiene by maintaining cleanliness before and after self-pleasure.
- Enhancing Vaginal Comfort with Lube
When applying lube for vaginal intercourse, exercise moderation to avoid excessive application that might lead to discomfort or irritation.
Lube is designed to enhance pleasure and prevent discomfort during sexual encounters. Proper usage is essential, ensuring you opt for products that meet stringent quality production standards.
