13 Best Natural Lubes That Are Gynecologist-Approved
Parabens, petrochemicals, and perfumes? Pass.
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When it comes to ~natural~ products, you may be a lil skeptical. I mean, do natural deodorants really keep your pits dry? Can natural retinol serums really iron out those forehead wrinkles? No matter how I may feel about other natural alternatives, there is one ~au naturale~ product I can stand behind, and that's natural lube. Made without perfumes, parabens, petrochemicals, or any other non-plant-based ingredients, natural lubricants are good for both you and the planet, and they can work just as well as those with artificial enhancements (think: synthetic flavoring, sketchy grades of glycerin, silicones, etc.).
Not everyone can agree on the definition of a "natural lube," but generally speaking, a natural lubricant is one made from plant-based ingredients. And if you're particularly conscious of what you put in your body, you may wanna stick with organic lubes, which are free from "botanicals grown with pesticides or unnatural chemicals," as sexologist Jess O'Reilly, PhD, tells Cosmo. (For the record, not all "natural" lubes are necessarily organic, though all organic lubes are considered "natural"). Looking to make the switch? You're in luck, 'cause I've rounded up all my fave natural lube options for you to peruse.
Our top picks for the best natural lubes of 2024:
Ahead, all the best natural lubricant options free from parabens, petrochemicals, and perfumes, as well as some expert advice from gynecologists and sexologists on finding the best natural lube for you. Oh, and be sure to check out our top organic condom picks for more good-for-you recs.
Pros
Ingredients help to reduce inflammation
Cleans up easily without sticky residue
Cons
Not as long-lasting as other options
May require reapplication
Known for its soothing and moisturizing properties, aloe vera provides a smooth, natural glide that sensitive skin loves...which is why Maude's aloe-based lube is so damn good. This Cosmo Lube Award winner is packed with plant extracts (including mushroom extract, quinoa seed extract, and hemp seed extract) to promote elasticity and keep everything slick 'n' smooth—and yep, it's all natural, bb.
- Type: Aloe-based
- Size: 2, 4, or 8 fl oz
- Condom-safe? Compatible with latex and polyisoprene condoms, but not polyurethane condoms
- Ingredients: Aloe leaf juice, propanediol, mushroom extract, gluconolactone, sodium hyaluronate, quinoa seed extract, hemp seed extract, linseed extract, green tea extract, oat kernel extract, hydroxyethylcellulose, xanthan gum, sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate, citric acid
THE REVIEW: According to one reviewer, "I loved how natural it felt (not too slippery and not sticky at all). Also appreciated the lack of smell and the ease of cleaning it off—it feels moisturizing rather than greasy after washing it off."
Pros
Made with very few ingredients
Free from potential vulvar allergens
Cons
Def isn't the longest-lasting option
Will likely require reapplication during use
If you want to avoid vulvar irritants, choose a natural lube made with as few ingredients (and potential allergens) as possible, like this hypoallergenic water-based formula from Sliquid, which keeps it suuuuper simple with just five ingredients. And though it's water-based and not as long-lasting as other options, it does include plant cellulose, which works as a thickening agent.
- Type: Water-based
- Size: 2, 4.2, or 8.5 fl oz
- Condom-safe? Compatible with latex, polyisoprene, and polyurethane condoms
- Ingredients: Purified water, plant cellulose, guar gum, potassium sorbate, citric acid
THE REVIEW: "As someone with very sensitive skin, I was looking for the cleanest ingredient list I could find while still offering high-quality performance, and this is absolutely the winner," one tester notes. "It has a great feel, smooth but not *too* slippery, and as a bonus, this stuff cleans up easily as well. I'm a repeat customer and will continue purchasing this product as long as it is available."
Pros
Water-based, but mimics the feel of silicone lube
Increeedibly hydrating
Cons
Some wish it came in a pump bottle
A bit pricier than other options
For a natural water-based lube with long-lasting glide, you'll wanna turn your attention to SUTIL's ultra-hydrating Luxe lube. Since it contains soothing hyaluronic acid and oat beta-glucan, this one will leave your skin feeling supple and moisturized—and even though it's long-lasting, it still has a nice, lightweight feel. No wonder ppl call this one the "holy grail" of water-based lubes.
- Type: Water-based
- Size: 2, 4, or 8 fl oz
- Condom-safe? Compatible with latex, polyisoprene, and polyurethane condoms
- Ingredients: Aqua, propanediol, hyaluronic acid, lotus root extract, oat beta-glucan, gluconolactone, sodium benzoate
THE REVIEW: "This lube lasts for such a long time compared to other water-based lubes," notes one reviewer. "It's also so nice that it doesn't feel sticky, and when it dries it doesn't have a weird flaky residue. My personal holy grail for lubes tbh."
Pros
Incredibly moisturizing
Great for long-lasting glide
Cons
Can't be used with most condoms
May need to be warmed up a bit before use
If long-lasting lubrication is your top priority, you may want to try an oil-based lube like this clean formula from Bloomi. Made with coconut oil to relieve dryness (as well as cocoa seed butter and vitamin E for extra moisture), Delight provides a nice, smooth glide without any artificial flavor or scent—plus, vulva owners will appreciate the vaginal benefits provided by the sea buckthorn oil.
- Type: Oil-based
- Size: 3 fl oz
- Condom-safe? Compatible with polyurethane condoms, but not latex or polyisoprene condoms
- Ingredients: Organic coconut oil, sunflower seed oil, shea butter, cocoa seed butter, sunflower seed wax, sea buckthorn oil, vitamin E
THE REVIEW: As one reviewer notes, "My skin is very sensitive, including my intimate areas, so I have to be careful about which lubes I use. This oil-based formula is gentle and feels really good! A win."
Pros
So slippery without even getting sticky
Contains skin-loving ingredients for providing hydration
Cons
Subtle vanilla scent is a turnoff for some
Dries up more quickly than others
Unflavored, unscented, and packed with hydrating lactic acid, Almost Naked ensures you get all the moisture you want without any of the irritants you don't need. Testers love that this one is made with 95 percent organic ingredients and has an amazingly slippy texture, thanks to the addition of agar from seaweed.
- Type: Aloe-based
- Size: 1.5 or 4 fl oz
- Condom-safe? Compatible with latex and polyisoprene condoms, but not with polyurethane condoms
- Ingredients: Aloe leaf juice, xanthan gum, agar, lactic acid, potassium sorbate, sodium benzoate, natural flavor
THE REVIEW: "I have used many lubricants, but, unlike most, this one remains smooth and silky from start to finish," reads one review. "It does not leave a sticky residue like lots of lubricants do. It is the only lubricant we use."
Pros
Works to simultaneously hydrate and lubricate
Approved by reviewers with sensitive skin
Cons
Some found the consistency a bit runny
A lil $$$ for the size
NGL, obsessed doesn't begin to describe how I feel about The Sex Gel. This water-based formula contains natural, gentle ingredients that provide soothing relief and hydration without stickiness (including hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, and allantoin)—and as a bonus, it'll help replenish vaginal moisture and keep mucus membranes protected with the help of lactic acid.
- Type: Water- and aloe-based
- Size: 1.7 fl oz
- Condom-safe? Compatible with latex, polyisoprene, and polyurethane condoms
- Ingredients: Aqua, aloe leaf juice, sorbitol, hydroxyethylcellulose, sodium benzoate, allantoin, lactic acid, potassium sorbate, sodium hyaluronate, vitamin E
THE REVIEW: As one review reads, "I've recently developed a sensitivity to glycerin, so I've been searching for an alternative to my normal lubricant. When I read the ingredient list for this product, I was intrigued. The ingredients are similar to those in the serums I use on my face. Best of all, this works! It helps keep things smooth and reduces friction.
Pros
Leak-proof bottle is great for travel
Good choice for those with aloe sensitivities
Cons
Can get a lil sticky, per some testers
Not the best for longer sessions
Unflavored, unscented, and made with only six ingredients, Lola is here to ensure you get all the moisture you want without any of the irritants you don't need—and it's ideal for anyone who may be sensitive to aloe vera. Rather than aloe, this water-based lube is made with hydroxyethylcellulose (a plant-based thickening agent), so if you find that you're sensitive to certain organic and natural ingredients, this is the stuff for you.
- Type: Water-based
- Size: 1.7 fl oz
- Condom-safe? Compatible with latex, polyisoprene, and polyurethane condoms
- Ingredients: Water, propanediol, gluconolactone, hydroxyethylcellulose, sodium benzoate, citric acid
THE REVIEW: "I've tried a bunch of lubricants, but this one has become my go-to and I've purchased it many times," one buyer notes. "It's got just the right slickness, is long-lasting, and the pump is super easy to manage. Just a little comes out at a time, which is perfect. It's totally non-irritating. Sometimes 'unscented' lubricants will still have an indistinct smell, but this one doesn't. Five stars all around."
Pros
Doubles as a lubricant and vaginal moisturizer
Taste is subtle but refreshing
Cons
Dries up too quickly for some testers
Consistency is runnier than some were expecting
Okay, now THIS one is unique! Made with coconut water, this natural option rehydrates sensitive tissues and protects against irritation, all while providing you with a lubricating boost. It's free from artificial dyes, fragrances, or vulvar allergens, and it's 100 percent edible—oh, and according to reviewers, the subtle coconut flavor is *chef's kiss.*
- Type: Water-based
- Size: 3 fl oz
- Condom-safe? Compatible with latex, polyisoprene, and polyurethane condoms
- Ingredients: Coconut water, xanthan gum, guar gum, potassium sorbate, sodium benzoate
THE REVIEW: "My spouse and I have been using Coconu’s water-based lubricant for about 2 years, and I can't say enough about it," one review reads. "This lubricant feels very natural, soothing, non-irritating, non-staining, and long-lasting. It is a little pricey but worth it!"
Pros
Uses vanilla essence and stevia as sugar substitutes
Works great as a massage oil, too
Cons
Not latex- or polyisoprene-friendly
Some reviewers found it tricky to get out of the tube
If you're looking for a lube that tastes and smells like vanilla cupcakes, you've come to the right place. The Coconut Love Oil is formulated with vanilla essence and a *touch* of stevia, so you don't have to worry about throwing off your vaginal biome if you use this internally. And since it's oil-based, it's super moisturizing and impressively long-lasting—though you'll wanna warm it up a bit before use.
- Type: Oil-based
- Size: 3.3 fl oz
- Condom-safe? Compatible with polyurethane condoms, but not latex or polyisoprene condoms
- Ingredients: Coconut oil, beeswax, deionized water, jojoba esters, sunflower seed wax, acacia decurrens flower wax, polyglycerin-3, natural flavor, stevia leaf exract
THE REVIEW: "This lube is so good," one review reads. "We loved the smell—it has faint hints of vanilla ice cream. The consistency was nice—not sticky or gooey. Bonus that it’s made with natural ingredients, so it’s edible and doesn’t taste bad!"
Pros
Soooo silky and soothing
Packed with pleasure-enhancing adaptogens
Cons
May get sticky over time, per a few testers
Not as long-lasting as some had hoped
Another Cosmo Lube Award winner, this unique formula is made with organic flax seed-based glycerin (which actually has great moisturizing and healing properties), as well as vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, and bamboo extract to mimic natural lubrication. Plus, it contains libido-boosting herbal stimulants (like ashwagandha, black cohosh, and horny goat weed) to naturally heighten your pleasure.
- Type: Water-based
- Size: 3.7 fl oz
- Condom-safe? Compatible with latex and polyisoprene condoms, but not polyurethane condoms
- Ingredients: Organic flax seed-derived glycerin, propanediol, fermented bamboo extract, hyaluronic acid, ashwagandha root extract, black cohosh root extract, horny goat weed extract, vitamin E, sodium carboxymethylcellulose, citric acid, potassium sorbate, sodium benzoate
THE REVIEW: "I’ve tried many, many lubes—this one is FANTASTIC!!!" one tester raves. "I’ve never been so pleased with a lube before. I’m 55, have sensitive skin, and am at the point where lube is a crucial part of my life. The slip, the texture, the action—this stuff has it all. I will never be without this stuff henceforth. LOVE it!!!"
Pros
Safe for sensitive folks, since it's free from potential irritants
Sensation kicks in fast and really lasts
Cons
Some testers say it can get a bit tacky over time
Not as warming as some had hoped
Listen, warming lubes can be a lil...intense, to say the least. However! Even those with sensitive skin vouch for this water-based option from Intimate Earth, which is made with naturally-derived ingredients and infused with botanical extracts (including cinnamon bark, which is what gives it that extra oomph). The effect is subtle, but trust, it's *so* good.
- Type: Water-based
- Size: 4 fl oz
- Condom-safe? Compatible with latex, polyisoprene, and polyurethane condoms
- Ingredients: Plant-derived glycerin, aqua, ginger root extract, cinnamon bark extract, aloe leaf extract, lemongrass extract, goji fruit extract
THE REVIEW: "Best warming lube we've tried," one customer notes. "Goes on a little thick (like all the warming lubes). Then 'melts' into a great feeling, super slick lube. And lasts a lot longer than any other water-based lube we've tried. Not the cheapest, or most expensive, but we found it to be the best."
Pros
Made with just two all-natural ingredients
Really does help enhance arousal, according to reviewers
Cons
Pricier than other natural options
Not compatible with most condoms
Wanna dip your toe into the world of CBD lubes? Made with just two ingredients (organically-grown broad-spectrum CBD and organic coconut oil), this best-selling lube is an all-natural way to ease discomfort, enhance arousal, and assist with both vaginal and anal penetration. It's also such a good value, considering most CBD lubes come in smaller volumes.
- Type: Oil-based
- Size: 3.8 fl oz
- Condom-safe? Compatible with polyurethane condoms, but not latex or polyisoprene condoms
- Ingredients: Coconut oil, broad-spectrum CBD
THE REVIEW: "I’ve dealt with vaginismus as well as endometriosis, and let me tell you, this lube has forever changed my life," one tester notes. "I’ve tried just about every lube on the market and this stuff takes the cake. I felt warm and soothed throughout my entire abdomen even half an hour after. I have NEVER opened up this much before down there during sex—this is an amazing, relaxing lube."
Pros
Relies on natural flavors rather than artificial sweeteners
Packaging is both chic and sustainable
Cons
Water-based, so may dry up a bit quickly
Taste is a bit *too* subtle for some
Many flavored lubes use artificial sweeteners that can wreak havoc on your vaginal biome...but that's not a problem with this bb. Available in four subtle varieties (with honey vanilla being my personal fave), this pH-balanced, naturally-flavored lubricant is both clean and effective, with a consistency that never gets sticky or tacky. Plus, ya gotta love the sustainable and recyclable packaging.
- Type: Water-based
- Sizes: 3.4 or 6.8 fl oz
- Condom-safe? Compatible with latex, polyisoprene, and polyurethane condoms
- Ingredients: Aqua, red algae extract, natto gum, propanediol, kelp extract, citric acid, hydroxyethylcellulose, cellulose gum, potassium sorbate, sodium benzoate, natural flavor
THE REVIEW: "I've tried so many lubes before and this is BY FAR the best one yet!" one tester raves. "The consistency is amazing and it lasts long. To top it all off, the flavor is super tasty, subtle, and unique—and it doesn't leave an aftertaste! I already gave one to my friend and will definitely try the other flavors soon!"
QQ: What is considered a "natural" lube?
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Unfortch, there's no ~universal standard~ of what makes something "natural," so there's some ambiguity surrounding the term. "For some, 'natural' denotes products crafted solely from botanical sources," Glissant co-founder and CEO Renée Garacochea explains. "Meanwhile, others utilize it to endorse products comprising a blend of plant-derived elements, alongside potential toxins such as phthalates." It's those latter options ya wanna look out for (especially if you're hoping to avoid unnecessary chemicals, hormones, and toxins).
Generally speaking, natural lubes are those that are free from non-plant ingredients...which means they don't include any perfumes, parabens, propylene glycol, or cheap grades of glycerin derived from petrochemicals. Oh, and btw: Despite what you may have heard, not all glycerin is bad. In fact, natural glycerin—which is created from fats and oils—actually has great moisturizing and healing properties.
Likewise, if natural lubricants contain preservatives like sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate, don't assume it's a bad thing. As sexologist Jess O'Reilly explains, "These ingredients are recognized as acceptable and safe preservatives for organic lubricants."
Is natural lube the same as organic?
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So, here's the thing: All organic lubes are considered natural, but not all natural lubes are considered organic, so the terms "natural" and "organic" shouldn't be used interchangeably. As Garacochea explains, "A natural lubricant typically refers to a product made from ingredients derived from nature, such as plants or minerals. An organic lubricant, on the other hand, specifically implies that the ingredients used in the product are sourced from organic farming practices." This means that the plants or other materials used to make the lubricant were grown without the use of synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
In order to differentiate between a "natural" and "organic" lube, it comes down to the ingredients in each and whether they've been certified by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Simply put: Organic lubes are made from certified ingredients, while natural ones are not. "To be truly organic, a lube's ingredients can't interact with any chemicals such as pesticides, fertilizers, and GMOs," O'Reilly tells us. You can also look for a lube with an organic certification logo (think USFA, NSF, etc.) on the packaging if choosing an organic lube is important to you.
What can be used as natural lube alternatives?
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Speaking of natural lube, you've probably heard about natural lube alternatives you can find in your home...but you've def gotta practice caution if you plan on putting a DIY lube in or near your vagina. Essential oils, for instance, have different properties and pH levels, so unless you're diluting them with a carrier oil, such as coconut, you shouldn't risk it. You should also avoid using mint oil as any kind of vaginal lubricant, because—in addition to messing with your pH—it can lead to some major irritation.
Some safe natural lube alternatives include aloe vera, virgin or unrefined coconut oil, peanut oil, vitamin E oil, and olive oil...with a few caveats: 1) You shouldn't use any of these materials with latex or polyisoprene condoms, as they can break down the material, and 2) keep allergies in mind. "It's vital to acknowledge that many individuals have allergies to natural substances, such as nuts," Garacochea says. "Hence, it's advisable to conduct a patch test on the skin before incorporating these ingredients internally."
How to choose the best natural lube
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A secret for you all: Just because a lube is as marketed as "natural" doesn't mean it actually is. Here are a few tips to make sure you're putting only the best in your body:
Skip potential irritants
As double board-certified physician Dr. Kecia Gaither explains, "It's best to choose lubricants that are devoid of alcohol, flavorings, or perfumes, as these can alter the vaginal microbiome, increase the risk of vaginal infections (like yeast and bacterial vaginosis), and increase the risk of irritating delicate vaginal tissues." It can also be helpful to do a skin test before using any sexual product. Place some on your wrist or forearm, wait 10 minutes, and see if you have any sort of reaction. If you don't, then chances are you're good to use.
Check out the ingredients
In addition to avoiding any alcohol, perfumes, or flavoring, you probably want to steer clear of any formulas that contain parabens or cheap grades of glycerin derived from petrochemicals. Putting chemicals in the genitals (especially inside a vagina) can compromise the pH balance and cause issues like yeast infections, so make sure the ingredients in your lube are both body-safe and vagina-friendly. Speaking of which...
Be aware of possible allergens
According to O'Reilly, "Many people with sensitivities switch to a natural or organic lube because they’re allergic to certain ingredients. However, what many don’t realize is that just because a product is botanical or ‘natural’ doesn't mean it's not going to be an irritant or an allergen." Aloe vera, for instance, can irritate some folks, as can some oils. Like with any other pleasure product, it’s important to pay attention to how your body responds to *any* lube formula—and know that just because it's "natural" doesn't mean it won't trigger a reaction.
Meet the experts
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- Renée Garacochea is the co-founder and CEO of Glissant, a premium intimate wellness brand.
- Jess O'Reilly, PhD, is a Toronto-based sexologist and relationship expert as well as the co-author of The Ultimate Guide to Seduction and Foreplay.
- Dr. Kecia Gaither is a double board-certified physician in OB/GYN and Maternal Fetal Medicine for NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln in New York, NY.
Why trust 'Cosmo'?
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Here at Cosmo, we have v high standards when it comes to sexual wellness recs. Every one of our round-ups adheres to the 15 Percent Pledge and includes products for all budgets and bodies. And you better believe we read those product reviews (and test many of the brands IRL) so you don't have to do it yourself.
Corinne Sullivan is an Editor at Cosmopolitan, where she covers a variety of beats, including lifestyle, entertainment, relationships, shopping, and more. She can tell you everything you need to know about the love lives of A-listers, the coziest bedsheets, and the sex toys actually worth your $$$. She is also the author of the 2018 novel Indecent. Follow her on Instagram for cute pics of her pup and bébé.
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