Water Based vs. Silicone: Which One Should You Use?
Posted by My First Blush on
By now, you should already know that lubricants are an absolute must. They can make the actual act of sex feel more comfortable, and they can also make the glide better when using your favorite sex toys.
Some people are still, however, under a bit of a misconception when it comes to lubes, that they aren’t always needed. And while lubricants may not always be a necessity, it’s not like they can hurt. Rather, they will definitely add a little extra comfort or an intensified sensation.
But, when it comes to anal play, actual sex or enjoying your favorite plaything will not only not feel quite as good, but it can actually lead to discomfort and, worse yet, injury. You see, the vagina creates natural moisture and juices when it’s “excited,” but the anus doesn’t have that capability. So, no matter how into the foreplay you may be, natural lubricants just aren’t possible. Plus, the tissues inside of the anus are sensitive and can be damaged or torn easily… AND dry anal sex can be quite uncomfortable and painful. Therefore, you’re always going to want to lather on the lube when having a little backdoor fun.
Of course, there are even more reasons to invest in a few lubricants to add to that nightstand drawer of your favorite things. First of all, lubricants are some of the least expensive sexual enhancements on the market. So, you don’t have to break the bank for a little extra zing.
And beyond the regular uses, lubes can be more than “useful.” Some lubricants actually heat up or cool down when used, so if you like the idea of a warming sensation, you may want to stock up. And if you like a little something more, some lubes on the market provide a tingling sensation that both partners can enjoy, or can definitely spice up your “alone” time when you pull out your new luxury vibrator for a little after-dinner action.
Yet, with a big market out there filled with all sorts of lubes, it may be a little confusing when trying to decide which one to use. The important thing to remember is that there are two basic types: water based and silicone. Everything else, including flavors, colors, scents and special sensations can come next.
Water Based Lubricants
There are different things to take into consideration when you begin searching for lubricants. When it comes to water based lubes, one of the most important things to keep in mind is that they aren’t too terribly sticky, and they won’t stain your clothing, sheets or any other fabrics that might come into contact with your new favorite lube.
They tend to last for a decent amount of time, but they may need to be reapplied if you’re having a midnight marathon. They work nicely for just about any type of sex, but they may not always last long enough to make anal sex as enjoyable as it can be, but it’s still a good choice for basic anal play.
Now, since they are made up primarily of water, it’s true that water-based lubes don’t last that long during water based activities. So, if you’re planning on a little hot tub or swimming pool fun, they may not be your best choice.
If you’re using condoms or a diaphragm, you also won’t have any problems using water based lubes. And do you have sensitive skin that is prone to discomfort or outbreaks? Well, the good news is that you typically won’t have any skin irritations resulting from utilizing water based lubricants.
Some of the most popular water based lubes that you may want to check out include:
- Adam & Eve Personal Water Based Lubricant
- LILO Personal Moisturizing Lubricant
- Mood Water Based Personal Lubricant
- Cloud 9 Water Based Personal Lubricant
- Fleshlight Fleshlube Water
If you’re looking for a little something extra with your water based lubes, then consider the following:
- Intimate Earth Intense Stimulating Gel
- System JO Wild Clitoral Stimulant Gel
- System JO H20 Warming Personal Lubricant
- Dickalicious Penis Arousal Gel in Strawberry
- Warming Masturbator Lube
Silicone Lubricants
Silicone lubricants are probably best known because they are the type that is typically used in lubricated condoms. Because they are made from oil and not water, they don’t evaporate, so they are more likely to last longer than their water based counterparts, making them the more convenient choice when you have a full night planned.
Now, silicone can tend to be a little thicker and stickier than water based lubes, and they my stain your clothing or other fabrics with which they come in contact.
Additionally, their use in not as versatile. For example, it’s not best to use silicone if you’re giving a blow job, and it shouldn’t be used with or come into contact with any sex toys made of silicone.
Some favorite silicone lubricants include:
- Sir Richard’s Soak N’ Stroke Tug It Out Silicone Lubricant
- System Jo Hybrid Personal Lubricant
- Colt Pump Lube
- Pjur Longlasting Woman’s Bodyglide Silicone Lube
- Pjur Med Premium Glide for Sensitive Skin
And if you’re looking for an added sensation or warming effect in your silicone lube, then check out these bad boys:
- System Jo All In One Silicone Warming Massage Glide
- Fleshlight Fire Warming Lubricant
- System JO Premium Cooling Lubricant
- Bathmate Control
- Arousal Gel
Go Green
If the environment is a top priority for you, then you can easily find both silicone and water based lubricants in brands and designs that will be earth-friendly, as well as sexually enticing.
Here are a few to try out!
- Aloe Cadabra Organic Lube Pina Colada
- Sliquid Organics Natural Intimate Lubricants
- Organic Embrace Vaginal Tightening Gel
- 100% Vegan Silver Silicone Lubricant
- Intimate Earth Sea Kelp & Guava Bark Vegan Lubricant
Whichever lube you decide to go with, don’t be afraid to lather it on and experiment with all of the different styles, tastes, smells and other tantalizing qualities. Just always remember to order your quality sex products from a trusted site to avoid any disappointments. Enjoy!