Taking care of your intimate areas is an important part of overall wellbeing. These are some of the most delicate parts of the body, and they deserve attention not only during your daily hygiene routine but also during intimate moments. If you or your partner experience insufficient natural lubrication — or simply want to enhance comfort and pleasure — a good lubricant can make a significant difference. But with so many types and formulations available, how do you choose the right one?
What Are Lubricants?
Lubricants — commonly available as gels or liquids — are products designed to moisturise and reduce friction in intimate areas during sexual activity. Using a lubricant does not necessarily indicate a medical problem. Many couples use them routinely to make intimacy more comfortable and enjoyable, regardless of whether natural lubrication is present.
Beyond basic moisturising, modern lubricants can offer additional benefits — from stimulating sensations to soothing and even anti-inflammatory effects, depending on their formulation. They can also be used with most intimate accessories such as vibrators and other products, though compatibility depends on the lubricant type.
Types of Lubricants — Understanding the Bases
The key difference between lubricants lies in their base ingredient. Each type has distinct characteristics, advantages, and limitations.
Water-Based Lubricants
These are the most widely recommended by healthcare professionals, and for good reason. Water-based lubricants have a pH level close to the body's natural vaginal pH, which means they are unlikely to disrupt the delicate bacterial balance of intimate areas. They provide comfortable, natural-feeling moisture without causing irritation.
Water-based formulas are also the safest option for use with all types of condoms and with silicone-based accessories. Their only downside is that they tend to absorb relatively quickly, which may require reapplication during longer sessions.
It is worth noting that most hypoallergenic lubricants are water-based. These products are free from dyes, fragrances, flavours, and unnecessary chemical additives — making them ideal for anyone with sensitive skin or a tendency toward allergic reactions.
[tip:If you are unsure which type of lubricant to start with, water-based is almost always the safest first choice. It is compatible with condoms, gentle on sensitive skin, and easy to clean up.]Silicone-Based Lubricants
Silicone lubricants provide a noticeably smoother, longer-lasting glide compared to water-based alternatives. A very small amount goes a long way, and they do not dry out or absorb as quickly. This makes them particularly well-suited for anal intercourse, where the body does not produce natural lubrication.
Silicone-based products are also waterproof, so they maintain their effectiveness during aquatic activities — something water-based lubricants cannot offer. They are safe to use with latex and polyisoprene condoms. However, one important caveat: silicone lubricants should not be used with silicone-based accessories, as they may degrade the material over time.
Oil-Based Lubricants
This is the least common and least recommended category. Oil-based products provide a rich, long-lasting feel, but they come with significant drawbacks. Most importantly, oils damage latex condoms, increasing the risk of breakage. They are also difficult for the body to clear from intimate areas, which can lead to bacterial imbalance and potential infections. For these reasons, oil-based lubricants are generally not recommended by specialists for internal use.
[warning:Oil-based lubricants are not compatible with latex condoms and may increase the risk of condom failure. If you use condoms for protection, always choose water-based or silicone-based products.] [products:durex-naturals-pure-intimate-gel-lubricant-100-ml, durex-naturals-hyaluro-moisturising-intimate-gel-100-ml, durex-originals-silicone-intimate-gel-50ml, durex-play-feel-lubricating-gel-50-ml, lovely-lovers-aqua-extreme-lube-anal-and-vaginal-gel-150-ml, unimil-pure-intensive-moisturizing-intimate-gel-80-ml]How to Use a Lubricant
Vaginal dryness is not always caused by a medical condition or lack of desire. Sometimes the body produces natural lubrication, but simply not enough for comfortable intercourse. A similar situation arises when using condoms — once the pre-applied lubricant dries, the material can cause friction and discomfort.
Applying a lubricant is straightforward. Squeeze a small amount onto your fingers and apply it to the intimate areas before penetration. It can be applied to either partner — or both. There is no set rule about quantity; start with a moderate amount and add more as needed. The goal is comfort, so let your body guide you.
How to Choose the Right Lubricant
The best lubricant is ultimately one that suits both partners' preferences. That said, certain situations call for specific formulations:
For those with sensitive or irritation-prone skin, organic or plant-based lubricants offer the gentlest option. These products are typically free from parabens, silicones, and artificial chemicals, making them less likely to cause adverse reactions.
For individuals prone to recurring intimate infections, look for lubricants with added soothing and protective ingredients such as chamomile, aloe vera, or tea tree oil. These natural components may offer mild anti-inflammatory and antifungal support alongside hydration.
Explore our full lubricants and intimate care collection to find the product that fits your needs.
Specialist Gels — Going Beyond Basic Lubrication
Stimulating Gels
These come in two main varieties: warming and cooling. They contain active ingredients that create targeted sensations — tingling, gentle warmth, or a refreshing coolness — designed to heighten sensitivity in intimate areas. Stimulating gels are popular among couples looking to intensify their experience and add a new dimension to intimacy.
Soothing Gels
Ideal for anyone who experiences chafing, irritation, or dryness after intercourse, or who simply has sensitive intimate skin. The best soothing gels are hypoallergenic with a minimal ingredient list, often enriched with aloe vera, panthenol, or chamomile — all known for their calming and skin-repairing properties.
Performance-Enhancing Gels
These products work primarily by stimulating microcirculation in the skin, which increases blood flow to the applied area. This may contribute to enhanced sensations and more sustained arousal. They are typically designed for male use and may also offer a mild stimulating effect.
[products:durex-play-water-based-warming-lubricant-gel-50-ml, durex-play-water-based-tingling-lubricant-gel-50-ml, durex-intense-orgasmic-stimulating-gel-for-women-10-ml, lovely-lovers-aloe-vera-soothing-intimate-gel-150-ml, durex-play-massage-2in1-massage-gel-with-stimulating-guarana-200-ml, cztery-szpaki-intimate-gel-quince-50-ml]Which Lubricant Should You Choose?
The choice ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific circumstances. Silicone-based lubricants are often recommended for their superior longevity and smoothness, making them an excellent all-round choice. However, if you have a sensitivity to silicone — or if you use silicone accessories — a water-based lubricant is the better option.
Both types are safe, effective, and well worth trying. The best approach is to experiment and discover what works for you and your partner. Our sexual health and wellness collection offers a wide selection of lubricants, gels, and intimate care products to help you find your perfect match.
[note:Always check the ingredient list if you have known allergies or sensitivities. Fragrance-free, paraben-free, and hypoallergenic products are the safest options for reactive skin.]Key Takeaway: A good lubricant enhances comfort, reduces friction, and can add new dimensions to intimacy. Water-based products are the safest universal choice, silicone-based gels offer longer-lasting performance, and specialist formulations cater to specific needs — from soothing sensitive skin to intensifying sensations.
