Safety and pleasure go hand-in-hand when you’re searching for the best lube for condom sex. Lube still carries a stigma that it’s only used for vaginal dryness, anal sex, or because you’re “not turned on enough.” This simply isn’t true. Lube is used in all kinds of situations to enhance sex for everyone (and is a worthy companion for solo play too). A few words that come to mind when considering the best lube for condoms: gliding, hydrating and sensual. The combination leads to less friction and increased sensation, not to mention the process of applying lube can be super sensual.
According to an Indiana University study, 70 percent of the 2,453 women surveyed said that lube made sex more pleasurable and enjoyable.
While considering what lubricant will feel best for your body, it’s equally important to ensure that the materials are compatible with condoms. For instance, you should avoid oil-based lubricants, as they’re not latex friendly (and there is nothing like a broken condom to ruin the mood).
In case it needs to be said, on your search for good lube for condoms, avoid petroleum jelly, butter, head and body lotions, vegetable oils, and whipped cream, all of which damage latex and can even cause vaginal irritation. While whipped cream and chocolate sauce might seem like a good idea in the moment, this article will outline the best lube for condoms and other considerations to keep things slippery, sexy, and safe.
Water based lube for condoms
Satisfy yourself with a good water-based lubricant. Choose natural ingredients to avoid oil, alcohol, glycerin, or any other petrochemicals.
Best lube for latex condoms
Latex condoms are the most popular for STI and pregnancy prevention. Pair that with silicone-based lube and you’ll be well on your way to pleasure. Since silicone lube lasts longer, it needs to be applied less often. And because silicone is hypoallergenic, most people won’t experience an adverse reaction.
While it is the best lube for condom sex, it’s not the best for sex toys. Silicone-based lube can cause the deterioration of rubber over time, leading to abrasions on the surface of the toys where bacteria can grow. If you opt to put a condom on a sex toy for sharing, choose one made from another material, such as glass, steel, or hard plastic to avoid any accidental or prolonged contact with the lube.
Whether you want to enjoy the slippery, enhanced sensation of solo play, or you’re on the hunt for the best condom-safe lube, check all the boxes: hypoallergenic, pH-balanced and latex-safe.
Best lube for non latex condoms
For those allergic to latex, who have sensitive skin, or simply don’t like the feeling of latex condoms, polyurethane condoms, which are made from synthetic rubber, are considered one of the better alternatives (although slightly less effective in protection against pregnancy).
The best lube for condoms without latex, such as polyisoprene, are water-based and silicone-based. Again, avoid oil-based lubricants, as it degrades polyisoprene and can trap bacteria inside and around the vagina or anus.
If you’re not sure what your condoms are made of, the safest measure is to choose a water-based lubricant because it works with latex and non-latex condoms, as well as sex toys.
With this information, your next session will not only be steamy, but slippery too.