We have noticed that there is a lot of confusion about lubricants. People often talk about different brands of lubricants, but almost never about what kind of lubricant it actually is. In this article we will discuss the differences between the types of lubricants that exist.
What types of lubricants are there?
- Water based
- Silicone base
- Oil based
Water based
Water-based lubricant is a popular choice among lubricant users. The safety in use of these lubricants is very high, it can generally be used well with all types of toys such as silicone, rubber, glass and metal. These types of toys will not be damaged by it.
Another great advantage of water-based lubricant is that it hardly stains when spilled. Because it is water-based, it will be easy to wash out in most cases.
Skin tolerance is also an important point for many users of lubricants, the water-based lubricants are almost always hypoallergenic and therefore also suitable for people with very sensitive skin. Because it is also a mild composition, the water-based lubricants are also excellent for daily use.
The standard variants are mostly odorless and tasteless, so they will not spoil the game if you smell it or if you continue to pleasure each other orally after applying it.
One of the disadvantages of water-based lubricant is that it absorbs and dries quickly, meaning you have to apply it more often.
Some water-based lubricants also contain a high concentration of glycerine, which can irritate the vagina or even cause (mild) allergic reactions. If you get a burning sensation after using a water-based lubricant, always rinse well and contact a (family) doctor in case of a severe reaction.
If the lubricant dries, it can also give a sticky feeling, which can be experienced as a small disruptive stimulus. If you notice this, it is wise to apply extra lubricant if you want to continue in the game.
As you might expect from the name, the water-based lubricant dissolves in water, making it not an ideal type of lubricant for wet intimate parties in a bath or shower.
Advantages:
- Can be used with all types of toys and condoms.
- Does not leave stains when spilled
- Hypoallergenic
- Usually odorless and tasteless
- Suitable for daily use
Disadvantages:
- Absorbs quickly
- Some contain a high concentration of glycerin, which can irritate the vagina
- May feel sticky when dry
- Not suitable for water activities
Examples of water-based lubricants in our range:
- Easyglide water based lubricant 150 ml
- Easyglide water based lubricant 500 ml
- Easyglide water based lubricant 1000 ml
Silicone
After water-based lubricant, silicone-based lubricant is also very popular. One reason for this could be that it stays slippery for a very long time and you don't have to apply it often, which also ensures fewer interruptions. Playing in the wetness of a bath or shower? Silicone lubricant is extremely suitable for this. It does not easily wash away in the water.
Silicone lubricant is also recommended for anal sex, as its long-lasting and very slippery properties help to reduce the chance of discomfort caused by friction. Silicone lubricant is also safe to use with most latex and non-latex condoms without the risk of breakage or damage to the condom.
A disadvantage of silicone lubricant is that it cannot be used in combination with silicone toys. If you use silicone toys, it is recommended to use an oil- or water-based lubricant.
What is an advantage for playing in wet conditions also has a disadvantage, namely that it is more difficult to clean. This means that you have to make some extra effort to clean yourself and possibly stained bedding. There is a chance that it will leave permanent stains on clothing and bedding.
Advantages:
- Stays smooth for a long time
- Remains smooth even under water
- Recommended for anal sex, reduces friction.
Disadvantages:
- Cannot be combined with all toys
- May stain if spilled
- More effort to clean than a water-based lubricant
- Often more expensive than other lubricants
Examples of silicone-based lubricants in our range:
Oil base
Oil-based lubricants are used less often than the two lubricants above, but they still have great advantages over water/silicone-based lubricants. An oil-based lubricant lasts longer than a water and/or silicone-based lubricant, making it a more sustainable choice.
It is of course also suitable for massages. It is often somewhat thicker and glides very well. This can contribute to a relaxing or very exciting massage. For example, for a penis massage this is very pleasant to use, for both the giver and receiver.
Mostly, the oil-based lubricants are used for masturbation. But it is also certainly suitable for anal sex because of the low lubricating and slippery effect. Please note that you do not do this in combination with condoms, this can damage the condoms. Many oils also have a protective and nourishing effect on the skin. This is a great advantage if you are very sensitive to friction or irritation during sex.
Be careful with spills, most oils stain clothing and bedding badly. To remove this you need extra work. For example, use dark bedding to reduce visible stains. Also, in addition to latex condoms, rubber and latex toys do not go together with an oil-based lubricant. If you use toys made of rubber, latex or are not sure what the exact material is, choose a water-based lubricant, you are always safe with this.
If too much of the lubricant gets into the drains, it can cause a blockage. Do not throw whole bottles of oil down the sink or toilet if you are unsure whether they are still good, but take them to the waste disposal. Some women become intimately unbalanced after using an oil-based lubricant, which can cause a fungal/yeast infection. If this happens, switch to a different type of oil or a different type of lubricant.
Advantages:
- Stays smooth for a long time, making it more durable than water- and/or silicone-based lubricants.
- Great for anal sex because it stays smooth for a long time.
- Some oils are very nourishing for the skin, such as almond oil
Disadvantages:
- Not compatible with condoms
- May leave stains if spilled.
- Can cause blockages in the sewer
- Some women develop a yeast infection after using coconut oil, for example.
Examples of oil-based lubricants in our range: