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The ultimate guide to the best water-based lube — plus 12 we love for foreplay and sex toy sessions
No longer will you be a fish out of water when it comes to the wet stuff
It’s no secret that lube is the key to great sex, and a pea-sized blob is all it takes to elevate your love life from ordinary encounter to sensory overload. But with so many different types of lubricant to choose from, it can be hard to decide which brand suits your needs.
The best sex lubes are generally designed to reduce friction during penetrative sex with a penis or a sex toy — which in turn reduces the risk of discomfort and injury. But these days lube brands also promise temperature-play, extra sensation, CBD-infusion, and even extra orgasm-power. So, what’s the difference between silicone and oil-based lube? And what gives water-based lube the edge?
Water-based lube is generally the most popular type of sexual lubricant on the market, with good reason. It’s often hailed as the superior emollient because it’s so versatile — water-based lube is generally safe for solo, vaginal or anal sex, plus it’s compatible with most sex toys and condoms. What’s more, water-based lubes generally contain fewer chemicals and more natural ingredients, which is why it’s a great all-rounder for all skin types and sexual proclivities.
With the help of Miranda Christophers, sex and relationship psychotherapist for menopause platform Issviva, we’re here to help you sort your oil from your water. Keep scrolling for everything you need to know about water-based lubricant, plus our pick of the best sex lubes to shop now.
Best water-based lubes at a glance
- Best all-rounder: LELO Personal Moisturiser, £27.90
- Best on a budget: Lovehoney Enjoy Water-Based Lubricant,
£12.99£10.99 - Best on sensitive skin: Knude Society Glide, £15
- Best against dryness: Issviva x Joylux Photonic Gel Lubricant, £14.99
- Best flavoured water-based lube: Roam Cucumber & Yuzu Flavoured Lubricant, £9.99
What is water-based lube?
Sex lube is essentially an emollient that’s designed specifically to improve sexual enjoyment by minimising chafing. But it’s more than just lotion for the motion. The best water-based lubes double up as a hydrating moisturiser for your skin, while simultaneously reducing friction and transforming an average encounter into an extra-sensory sex party.
“Personal lubricants — often referred to as lube — are liquids or gels specifically designed for intimate use on the vulva, vagina, penis, and anus,” explains Christophers. “People can use lube during sexual activity to create more lubrication for comfort and pleasure and reduce discomfort from friction,” she adds.
But lube isn’t just for kinksters and moisture-challenged orifices. “Lubricants are great for use by anyone having sex regardless of their age, gender, or the sex they are having,” explains Christophers. “If you find that vaginal or anal sex can feel dry or uncomfortable, or you are experiencing vaginal dryness, then they can be particularly beneficial.”
What are the different types of lubricant?
Which type of lube is best for you? Sex lubricants generally come in three ways: oil-based, silicone-based, and water-based.
Water-based lube
Choosing the best sex lube is all about personal preference, but water-based lube is generally our go-to product for most sexual scenarios involving solo masturbation and partnered sex. “Water-based lubricants are ideal for use with sex toys and condoms and are generally milder so may be preferred by those with sensitive skin,” explains Christophers.
Oil-based lube
If you’re in for the long haul tonight you might prefer a touch of oil, but proceed with caution. “Oil-based lubes are longer lasting and safe to use with sex toys, however, they can disintegrate latex so are not recommended with the likes of latex condoms or dental dams.”
Silicone-based
While it tends to be thicker and longer-lasting than water-based, silicone-based lubes are not compatible with the majority of sex toys. That said, “silicone-based lubes last longer than the other lubricants so there is less need to reapply, and it still works in water”, says Christophers.
How we test the best water-based lubes
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