How to Use Lube (And Why It Can Make Your Sex Life So Much Better)!

Before we launch into how to use lube, let's talk about why lube is so important. Lube makes sex more comfortable, adding slippery slickness. If you haven't had enough time for foreplay or experience difficulty getting wet, then lube is a must. Lube is essential during anal sex because the anus doesn't self-lubricate. Lube also prevents micro-tears in your vagina or anus that the friction of sex can cause. Abrasions can make you more susceptible to STIs and bacterial infections.

Before you can use lube, you need to have the right lube on hand. Not all lube is compatible with all contraceptives or sex toys, for example. Compatibility is based on the lube's ingredients. There are three main lube bases:

• Water: water-based lube is compatible with every toy, condom, and orifice. Water-based lubes are available in a variety of thicknesses. But they tend to become sticky and dry quickly, and some of them contain potentially problematic ingredients such as glycerin. Water washes off in water, so you want to opt for something else in the shower or tub.
• Silicone: Lubes made from silicone are slicker and longer lasting than water-based lubes. They may not feel as natural as water-based lubes and require soap and water to wash off. Low-quality silicone lubes can react with silicone toys. Do a patch test on the base of the toy by applying lube and rubbing vigorously. If it becomes tacky, don't use that lube with that toy.
• Oil: Lubes made from oil are perfect for masturbating and anal sex, but there are times when you shouldn't use them. For starters, oil degrades latex, so don't use an oil-based lube with latex condoms (self-lubricated condoms use a compatible lube) or toys. There's also debate about whether oil-based lubes are compatible with vaginal sex, so proceed with caution if you decide to use oil for lube.

Some lubes are hybrids, which means they use multiple bases. These lubricants promise the best of both worlds. A water-silicone hybrid is less likely to react with a silicone sex toy because of the lower amount of silicone, but you'll still want to do a patch test.

Once you've chosen lube, it's is easy to use. You apply it where you need extra slickness. There are two ways to about it: you can add lube to your fingers, toy, or penis or you can add it to the orifice that you will be penetrating. For an even more slippery sensation, you can apply lube to both areas. It's personal preference.

Once you find your ideal lube, you can enjoy sex that's more comfortable and even lasts longer!