Lube 101 – Violet Fawkes

Finally, people of all genders and sexual orientations are using lube! It used to be something that was stigmatized, but as things start to get sexy, more and more people are using lube. It’s a must for anal sex, but don’t forget it’s also important for masturbation (mutual or solo), toy insertion, vaginal penetration, and tactile vulva play. Lube makes everything go more smoothly (duh!), and it helps you get out of your head and back into your body. Commercially available lube takes the guesswork out of wetness and provides a reliable friction solution when and where you need it most.

Not all lubricants are created equal

Tips for using lubricants

• Whether you think you need lubrication or not, use it. There’s no shame in enjoying the smooth, slippery feeling of artificial lubrication!
• Don’t forget, lubrication doesn’t just provide pleasure, it also ensures safety. Lubrication eliminates friction and resistance during penetration, and can be the difference between safe and comfortable sex and painful injuries such as vaginal tears, anal fissures, and skin irritation.
• Apply lubrication before your vagina or anus gets warm. This will reduce your anxiety about whether you’re wet enough and make masturbation, touching, and penetration easier and more comfortable.
• Play with temperature. Chill your favorite lubricant in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before using it. Likewise, warming up your lubricant before use is the ultimate luxury. Simply place a sealed bottle or tube of lubricant in a sink filled with warm (not hot) water for 5 to 10 minutes before use. Never freeze, boil, or microwave lubricant.
• Use multiple types of loops each time. Use lubricants based on your activities, for example, you may prefer a water-based lubricant for vaginal play, but also depend on the slipperiness of silicone for anal play.
• Use more than you think you need, and know that you can always add more. Unless you are specifically looking for resistance and friction, lubrication is the most comfortable, easiest to engage, and most effective for penetration. Use lubrication that feels good, and use it as needed.
• The expiration date on a lubricant can be helpful, but common sense is more useful. Do not use an expired lubricant if it changes color, texture, or smell. If a lubricant irritates your skin, wash it off immediately and stop using it.
• Flavored lubes can be fun, but always read the ingredient list before consuming them and steer clear of products that contain sugar. Genitals and sugar should never mix, but opt ​​for flavored lubes that are sweetened with artificial sweeteners or natural alternatives like stevia.

Choose your lubricant carefully

My favorite lubes:

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