Having Fun with Lubricants

When it comes to lubricants, you will find that there are many different types to select from.  If you are planning to use lubricants with condoms, however, you have probably heard that you should only use those that are water-based.  But, what exactly is the difference between the various types of lubricants and why are water-based lubricants the only kind to use with condoms.  Well, let CondomMan help you understand!

All lubricants serve one primary purpose:  to reduce the friction experienced during intercourse.  When you use a condom, the condom will likely contain a certain about of lubricant, but this probably won’t be enough to help you experience a natural feeling.  Therefore, you should use lubricants in order to reduce the amount of friction between the condom and your partner’s skin.  In addition to helping to increase your pleasure, lubricants also help reduce the chances of ripping or otherwise damaging the condom. 

There are three basic types of lubricants available on the market:  water-based, oil-based, and silicone-based. Water-based lubricants are best to use with condoms because you do not have to worry about the lubricant breaking down the latex of the condom.  These lubes are made with a mixture of glycerin and water, which means they can evaporate somewhat quickly.  Therefore, you might need to keep more on hand so you can add more during intercourse.  At the same time, water-based lubricants wash off easily with just soap and water when you get done.

Silicone-based lubricants are the ones that are most commonly included on condoms when you purchase them.  Therefore, these lubes are also safe to use with condoms.  On the plus side, you don’t have to worry about silicone-based lubes evaporating.  In addition, this type of lubricant is great if you plan to have sex in the water.  At the same time, this lube can also be washed off with soap and water, though you may feel a residue afterward.  If you wipe off the excess lube before bathing, however, you can reduce the amount of residue you experience.  And, if you don’t get it all off, it will actually be absorbed by your skin and will help make your skin feel softer!

Oil-based lubricants should never be used with latex condoms because the oil will cause the latex to break down.  As a result, your condoms will no longer be effective at protecting you from disease and pregnancy.  Oil-based lubricants include lotion, baby oil, and Vaseline.  If you choose a polyurethane condom, you can safely use oil-based lubricants.  Many people prefer to go this route because oil-based lubes are slicker than water-based and silicone-based lubes and they also help to soften the skin.

Regardless of the base for the lube you select, you will also have a number of different variations to select from.  For example, you might choose a flavored lube, which can make oral sex far more pleasurable.  There are also lubes that cause tingling sensations or that heat the area that comes in contact with the lube.  Some are also designed to help you maintain an erection for a longer period of time, so have fun and experiment with all that is available to you.