Lubricants are our intimate assistants during sexual activities. They not only reduce skin friction during sex and solve the problem of vaginal dryness but also increase comfort and pleasure, enhancing smoothness and allowing us to better enjoy the wonders of sex.

Types of Lubricants: Water-Based, Silicone-Based, and Oil-Based

1. Water-Based Lubricants: Water-based lubricants are the most common and popular type. They are easy to clean, do not leave residues on the skin, and are easy to wash out from clothing and bed linens. Additionally, they are safe to use with other sexual products, such as condoms and silicone-based toys, as they do not cause them to break or degrade. Water-based lubricants are usually composed of water (the primary solvent, providing lubrication and making the lubricant easy to clean), glycerin (which enhances lubrication and helps keep the skin moist), hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (which regulates the lubricant’s consistency and stability), and preservatives (which prevent microbial growth and extend the product’s shelf life).

2. Silicone-Based Lubricants: The main features of silicone-based lubricants are their excellent lubrication and long-lasting performance, making them suitable for prolonged use. They are waterproof and ideal for underwater sex. Although they generally do not affect most condoms, they should not be used with silicone toys (such as vibrators and strokers) as they can damage the surface of the silicone or make it sticky. When using them with other silicone toys, compatibility should be considered. Silicone-based lubricants typically consist of silicone (providing long-lasting lubrication) and cyclomethicone (which enhances the lubricant’s smoothness and water resistance).

3. Oil-Based Lubricants: Oil-based lubricants are usually made from vegetable oils (which provide good lubrication and moisturizing effects), mineral oils (which enhance the lubricant's lubricating properties and stability), and fragrances or essential oils (which enhance the user experience but should be chosen carefully to avoid skin sensitivity). They last longer than water-based or silicone-based lubricants. However, they should not be used with latex products (like condoms), as they can cause latex to break. Moreover, because they are made from oil-based materials, they are harder to clean and may leave oil stains on the skin or fabric.

Impact on the Human Body

In general, lubricants are safe for the human body. Water-based lubricants are the mildest option, unlikely to cause skin irritation or infections, making them suitable for people with sensitive skin. Silicone-based lubricants are also generally safe, but individuals allergic to silicone compounds should avoid them. Oil-based lubricants should be used cautiously, especially by those with sensitive skin or a tendency to infections. Some studies have found that oil-based lubricants may increase the risk of yeast infections, so this should be taken into consideration.

Summary

• Safety: Water-based lubricants > Silicone-based lubricants (Avoid if allergic to silicone) > Oil-based lubricants (Not recommended for those with sensitive skin or prone to infections)
• Longevity: Oil-based lubricants > Silicone-based lubricants > Water-based lubricants
• Impact on Sex Toys: Water-based lubricants do not affect toys; silicone-based lubricants should not be used with silicone toys; oil-based lubricants should not be used with latex toys (condoms).
• Ease of Cleaning: Water-based lubricants are easy to clean > Silicone-based lubricants are waterproof > Oil-based lubricants are harder to clean and may leave oil stains on skin or fabric.
  
  

Reference

"Association of Lubricant Use with Women's Sexual Pleasure, Sexual Satisfaction, and Genital Symptoms: A Prospective Daily Diary Study"

• Journal: The Journal of Sexual Medicine
  

"Lubricants for the Promotion of Sexual Health and Well-being: A Systematic Review"

• Journal: Archives of Sexual Behavior

"The Impact of Lubricant Use on Sexual Health and Function in Women"

• Journal: Sexual and Relationship Therapy
  

"Compatibility and Safety of Personal Lubricants with Silicone Sex Toys"

• Journal: Journal of Sexual Medicine
  

"Impact of Silicone-Based Lubricants on Medical Devices Used in Gynecology"

• Journal: Gynecologic and Obstetric Investigation

"The Effect of Lubricants on the Longevity and Safety of Silicone Sex Toys"

• Journal: International Journal of Impotence Research