Crafting a comprehensive review for lubricants might not be on my agenda. Why, you ask? Well, my perspective is quite straightforward – a lubricant either suits my needs or it doesn't. Moreover, when I discover a lubricant that resonates with my preferences, I tend to acquire the largest available container, ensuring its perpetual presence in my intimate endeavors. Consequently, my encounters with new lubricants typically occur only when I chance upon samples accompanying new toys or in event swag bags, which I conveniently reserve for my travels.
Recognizing Lubricant Quality
It's essential to recognize that the majority of lubricants found on drugstore, grocery store, and even sex shop shelves often leave much to be desired. Prudent use is advised unless you have no alternative. I acknowledge that not everyone has access to exceptional sex stores that prioritize customer well-being through meticulous product selection. If this resonates with you, I recommend exploring online sources, where quality lubricants are readily accessible. Notably, premium lubricants can significantly enhance your intimate experiences. (Target, for instance, now offers Good Clean Love, a brand that, while not personally suitable for me, garners favorable reviews from others. If you find yourself in need of reliable lubricants, it's worth a try.)
FDA Approval and Beyond
Primarily, FDA approval of a lubricant should not be misconstrued as a blanket endorsement of its safety. FDA approval merely indicates that the product is non-toxic, signifying that it won't lethally harm you, but it doesn't guarantee against potential discomfort or adverse reactions. It's crucial to bear in mind that FDA testing rarely involves human genitalia or the specific areas that these products will ultimately contact. Relying solely on FDA approval is ill-advised.
Allergies and Sensitivities
Furthermore, it's imperative to exercise caution regarding known allergies or sensitivities. If you are aware of a sensitivity to aloe, for instance, it's unwise to assume that a lubricant containing aloe won't trigger a reaction. The skin in the genital region is exceptionally sensitive, making it vital to avoid ingredients that could provoke discomfort or adverse responses. Aloe is merely one of numerous components that can elicit allergies or sensitivities in lubricants. I emphasize aloe because it aligns with my personal experience, though aloe sensitivity is comparatively uncommon. However, the spectrum of potential allergens extends to various "chemicals," and even "natural" or "organic" lubes may contain substances that can be problematic for individuals with specific sensitivities to plants or herbs. Exploring smaller bottles or samples can prove invaluable in identifying potential sensitivities before committing to a full-sized product.
Understanding Lubricant Bases
Lube selection hinges on three primary "base" options: water-based, silicone-based, and oil-based (excluding the lesser-known "hybrid" blends of water and silicone). Each base presents distinct qualities to consider.
Exploring Oil-Based Lubricants
Oil-based lubricants boast remarkable durability, resisting quick drying and absorption compared to their water-based counterparts. However, they pose a challenge to latex and poly-isoprene barriers, necessitating the use of polyurethane or nitrile alternatives for adequate protection. These lubricants complement non-porous sex toys, such as silicone, metal, glass, and ABS plastic, but are unsuitable for porous materials (which, ideally, should be avoided altogether).
When selecting an oil-based lubricant, opt for plant-based varieties, as petroleum-based oils are generally less compatible with the body and may facilitate bacterial growth. Coconut oil, in particular, has gained popularity due to its versatility and hypoallergenic properties. Although widely embraced, it's prudent to conduct a patch test for those with preexisting oily skin to assess potential pore-clogging effects. While coconut oil has earned praise for its antibacterial properties, it should be noted that it stains bed sheets and poses challenges when spilled on hardwood or tile floors. Depending on your preference, you can procure coconut oil from your local grocery store or explore branded versions tailored for intimate use, available both online and in sex shops.
Silicone-Based Lubricants: Durability and Compatibility
Silicone-based lubricants are another excellent option, renowned for their extended durability. These lubricants typically contain fewer ingredients, simplifying the assessment of potential sensitivities. Additionally, silicone lubricants are inherently hypoallergenic, although exceptions may arise if manufacturers introduce allergenic additives. While there exists a slight risk of silicone lube trapping bacteria near the urethra, leading to potential UTIs, the likelihood of this scenario remains minimal unless recurrent UTIs are a concern.
Compatibility with silicone sex toys varies based on the quality of both the lubricant and the toy. Incompatible silicone lubes may slightly alter the texture of silicone toys, leaving them feeling tacky or rough. However, the toys remain safe and non-porous, albeit less ideal. Collaboration between toy makers and lube manufacturers has prompted investigations into silicone-on-silicone compatibility, assuaging concerns about potential harm. For peace of mind, consider conducting a discreet patch test on the toy's base to ascertain compatibility.
Silicone lubricants harmoniously coexist with all types of barriers and boast an indefinite shelf life.
Navigating Water-Based Lubricants
Water-based lubricants, although widely accessible, present nuanced complexities. To pinpoint a high-quality water-based lubricant with minimal irritation potential, a degree of scientific understanding is essential. To comprehend this labyrinthine landscape, it is crucial to grasp the concept of osmolality. Osmolality, denoting the liquid's pressure, intersects with skin cells, each having its distinct water content and pressure. Ideally, both should strike a harmonious balance, sharing water resources equitably.
Hypo-osmotic lubricants exhibit lower water pressure than skin cells, overinflating them until they rupture and perish. Conversely, hyper-osmotic lubricants exert excessive pressure on skin cells, desiccating and causing them to wither. Hyper-osmotic lubricants are commonly responsible for irritation, provoking sensations of burning, itching, and dryness. The resultant sloughing of skin cells heightens susceptibility to STI transmission.
Ingredients to Beware Of
Several ingredients, if present in lubricants, should raise red flags:
- Glycerin: Can trigger yeast infections in vaginal applications.
- Propylene Glycol: A sensitizer with the potential to induce skin reactions upon prolonged use.
- Nonoxynol 9: Developed to combat bacteria and STI transmission, but it also harms beneficial genital bacteria.
- Chlorhexidine Gluconate: A potent antiseptic intended for extreme applications, not for personal lubrication.
- Polyquaternium 15: Known to release formaldehyde and cause allergic reactions.
- Benzocaines and Lidocaines: Numbing agents, which are unnecessary and may cause allergic reactions.
- Sugars (glucose, maltodextrin, honey, essential oils): Known to cause yeast infections, they are unsuitable for vaginal application.
- Other ingredients: Avoid additional preservatives, surfactants, petrochemicals, or substances known to induce allergies.
Stay Vigilant
It's imperative to remain vigilant regarding known allergies and sensitivities, as they can exacerbate reactions to these ingredients. Furthermore, scrutinizing ingredient lists for potential irritants or sensitizers can guide your selection.