• Vitamins & Supplements
  • Food & Drink
  • Sports Nutrition
  • Free From
  • Natural Beauty
  • Weight Management
  • Offers
  • Summer Shop
  • The Health Hub
  • Learn more Healthbox
  • Account
Track your order Delivery & Returns Help Centre My subscriptions

Customer Service

  • Contact us
  • Site map
  • Site map
  • Store locator

About us

  • Who are we
  • Working at Holland & Barrett
  • Press releases
  • Privacy & cookie policy
  • Terms & conditions
  • Holland & Barrett More
  • Holland & Barrett International
  • Corporate Social Responsibility
  • Modern Slavery Statement

Connect with us

Store
0370 606 6606
My account
Rewards
  • Sign in
  • How do I join?
  • What are the benefits?
  • FAQs
Holland & Barrett :: the good life
  • Menu
  • Account
  • Store
  • Basket
    Search for
    • Vitamins & Supplements
    • Food & Drink
    • Sports Nutrition
    • Free From
    • Natural Beauty
    • Weight Management
    • Offers
    • The Health Hub
    • Healthbox

    Home / Conditions / Sexual Health / 5 types of lubricants

    lube types
    lube types

    5 types of lubricants

    Sex is an important part of many relationships, and provides pleasure, intimacy and love for those involved.

    However, if there is a physical issue making this difficult, then it can change how you feel about it.

    One common problem that is often experienced is that of vaginal dryness.

    It is not something that people like to talk about, but it can make sex uncomfortable and take all of the fun out if it.

    An easy solution for this is to use a lubricant. This makes things easier and less painful, restoring the fun in your love life.

    So, what type of lubricant should you choose and what exactly can they be used for?

    1. Water based lubricant

    The most versatile type of lube is a water-based one.

    This is a product that can be used with silicone toys or condoms, so is great for whatever type of fun you want to have.1 Read more: 6 types of condoms.

    Water-based lube is a popular choice, as it is less likely to stain your bedding. It is also gentle on your skin and it washes off easily.

    The YES Water Based Natural Lubricant is thought by many to be the best water-based lubricant, as it is a certified organic product that is intensely hydrating, silky and hypoallergenic.

    It is also NHS approved, so a great choice for anyone using lube for the first time.

    2. Silicone lubricant

    If you have particularly sensitive skin, then you may want to consider a silicone lube as an option.

    This often has a silky texture and is also hypoallergenic, so there is less risk of any allergic reactions occurring.

    Many people also find that this type of lube can last longer, so it does not need reapplying and there are no time limits on your fun.

    This type of lubricant is not recommended for use with silicone sex toys as they can start to deteriorate.

    Silicone lube is still safe for use with condoms but does not wash away quite as easily as water-based lubricants.

    3. Oil-based lubricant

    One of the longest lasting types of lubricant is an oil-based one.

    These are wonderful for massages, and as they are not easily washed away, they can also be used in the shower.

    However, they are not recommended for use with latex condoms as they can cause them to tear.

    Oil-based lubricant does stain material and can be responsible for infections such as bacterial vaginosis, so it needs to be used with care.

    4. Organic lubricant

    When it comes to products for use on intimate areas, it is understandable that you will care about the ingredients.

    Many people have sensitivities or ethical concerns about what is included and so are turning to organic lube as an alternative option.

    Natural lubricants focus on ingredients such as aloe vera in order to be kind to the skin but still remain effective.

    The YES Water Based & Plant-oil Based Natural Lubricant Intro Pack contains three different natural lubricants which use rich oils and butters which are certified organic, so that you can use them with confidence and comfort.

    5. Lubricant for menopause

    The menopause can be a significant cause of vaginal dryness as estrogen levels drop, causing vaginal tissues to become thinner and dryness takes hold.2 Read more: Menopause & sex: What really happens?

    There are now products on the market specifically designed for this. One of the best lubricant for menopause dryness is Meg’s Menopause Motion Lotion which is water-based and contains shea butter, cocoa butter and chamomile extracts to provide gentle and silky lubrication.

    Using a lubricant that is free from fragrances and strong ingredients will keep the vagina healthy and allow you to use it easily and discreetly.

    There are many causes for intimate dryness and understanding them can be the key to overcoming them.

    Our article on ‘Intimate Dryness: Your Guide To Causes And Remedies’ gives a great insight into this subject and includes some helpful tips and ideas.

    So, do not let dryness stand in your way. When it comes to sex, wetter is better! Intimate dryness is not a subject to be embarrassed about as it affects huge numbers of people.

    There are many types of products out there, so take your pick from flavoured, tingling, or even warming lube to make things even more interesting!

    Shop Sexual Health

    Last updated: 21 January 2021

    Sources
    1 https://www.healthline.com/health/healthy-sex/lube-shopping-guide-types#types-of-lube
    2 https://www.firstforwomen.com/gallery/health/best-lubricant-for-menopausal-dryness-158832

    Tweet
    Follow on Instagram
    Sexual Health

    You may also like

    Got a low sex drive? Here are 9 potential reasons why

    Article

    Got a low sex drive? Here are 9 potential reasons why

    Found yourself lacking in the sex drive department? Just don’t fancy ‘it’ as much as..

    READ MORE...
    Lost or low libido: 7 reasons why

    Article

    Lost or low libido: 7 reasons why

    How many times have you felt in the mood to dance the horizontal tango, only..

    READ MORE...
    6 types of condoms

    Article

    6 types of condoms

    When it comes to some late-night (or early morning!) fun, you always need to make..

    READ MORE...

    Connect with us

    • Log in Register
    • rewards for life

    Customer service

    • Store locator
    • Contact us
    • Site feedback
    • Frequently asked questions
    • Delivery & returns
    • Site map
    • My account

    About us

    • Who we are
    • Working at Holland & Barrett
    • Press room
    • Privacy & cookie policy
    • Terms & conditions
    • Holland & Barrett More
    • Holland & Barrett International

    Brands

    • Holland & Barrett
    • Bootea
    • Dr Organic
    • Precision Engineered
    • Manuka Doctor
    • Good n Natural
    • Miaroma
    Register
    Click to verify if this website is operating legally

    Copyright © Holland & Barrett Retail Limited, 2017. All rights reserved. hollandandbarrett.com is a trading name of Holland & Barrett Retail Limited,. Registered office: Samuel Ryder House, Barling Way, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV10 7RH. Registered in England: company no. 2758955. Registered VAT no. 211727395.