Among the popular choices are natural lube and natural water-based lubes, chosen for their ease of use, simple cleanup, and compatibility with other sex-related products.
To help you better understand your choices, let’s look at some key points typically covered when talking about this topic, including product specifics and general advice.
Key Takeaways:
Here are some important things to consider when looking for a natural water-based lubricant:
- Natural Ingredients: Look for products that prioritize plant-derived, natural, and organic ingredients, and avoid harsh chemicals such as parabens, glycerin, and synthetic fragrances.
- Paraben-Free: Choose paraben-free products to ensure they are safer and more environmentally friendly. Paraben-free formulations contribute to the natural and organic quality of the ingredients, appealing to health-conscious consumers.
- pH Balance: Maintaining the natural pH balance of intimate areas is important for maintaining comfort and overall health. Many natural lubes are formulated to be pH-balanced mainly to support vaginal health and protect delicate tissues from irritation.
- Compatibility: Make sure the lubricant is compatible with any condoms (latex, polyisoprene, etc.) or sex toys you plan to use. Water-based lubes are generally safe to use, but always check the label for compatibility.
- Feel and Formulation: Different products will have different textures and consistencies. Some try to simulate the body’s natural moisture, while others go for a thicker, gel-like feel.
Why Choose Natural Water-Based Lube?
Water-based lubricants are a go-to choice for many. Why? Because they are typically non-staining, rinse off easily with water, and are compatible with most sex toys made from various materials (including silicone). They also help reduce friction, making the sex smoother and more enjoyable.
As for condoms, those made from materials such as latex and polyisoprene are best used with a natural water-based lubricant. These lubes can be easily rinsed off with warm water.
The term “natural” often implies formulas that avoid synthetic additives, such as parabens, glycerin, artificial fragrances, and petrochemicals, instead using ingredients derived from plants and other natural sources, which can be gentler on the skin.
Key Ingredients to Look For (and Avoid)
When considering a natural water-based lube, start by paying attention to the ingredient list.
Beneficial ingredients often include the following:
- Purified Water: The base of the lubricant.
- Plant Cellulose or Gums: Used as thickening agents, like xanthan gum or guar gum.
- Aloe Vera: Known for its soothing and moisturizing properties.
- Natural Extracts: Such as chamomile or fruit extracts for subtle effects or preservation.
- Natural Oils (included with some products): While mostly water-based, some products may include small amounts of natural oils for a more luxurious feel. However, be aware of the risks associated with using oil-based lubricants with latex, even if they are natural derivatives.
- Hyaluronic Acid: Enhances hydration and comfort for sensitive skin, making it an excellent ingredient for prolonged use without stickiness or greasiness.
- Olive Oil: A natural and moisturizing option, especially when unrefined, that can be beneficial for intimate uses.
Equally, there are ingredients to avoid, such as:
- Glycerin and Sugar Derivatives: These can potentially disrupt the natural pH balance and contribute to yeast infections in some individuals.
- Parabens: These are artificial preservatives that some people prefer to avoid due to concerns about potential hormone disruption.
- Petroleum Jelly and Mineral Oil: These are not compatible with latex condoms and can be difficult to clean.
- Propylene Glycol: A synthetic humectant that can be irritating for some.
- Artificial Fragrances and Dyes: Can cause irritation or allergic reactions.
- Spermicides: If not intended for contraceptive use.
Top-Rated Natural Water-Based Options
There are several personal lubricant brands that focus on creating natural water-based lubricants.
Here are a couple of the most popular brands to consider:
Pjur Water Based Personal Lubricant
This versatile water-based lube is perfect for enhancing intimacy, whether it’s during sex, masturbation, or with your favorite sex toys.
Pjur Water-Based Lube is gentle and effective, providing a smooth, friction-free experience that makes every moment more pleasurable.
For those exploring back door play, they even offer a specialized Anal Lube, to provide extra comfort and ease during anal sex.
Natural water-based lube not only reduces friction but also enhances the overall experience by making movements smoother and more enjoyable.
Pjur is gentle on the skin, making it suitable for even the most sensitive areas. Plus, it’s easy to clean up afterward—rinse with water, and you’re good to go.
Sliquid Naturals H2O
This variety is Sliquid’s original water-based formula, specifically designed to emphasize purity and a natural feel during use.
Unlike many other lubricants, Sliquid Water-Based Lube uses plant cellulose as a thickener instead of glycerin or sugar derivatives, making it an excellent choice for anyone with sensitivities or those who prefer a more natural option.
Sliquid Naturals H2O is 100% free from a long list of potentially harmful chemicals, including DEA, gluten, glycerin, glycol, parabens, PEG, propylene glycol, sorbitol, and sulfates. This means you can enjoy a clean and safe experience without worrying about unwanted additives.
Additionally, it is completely vegan-friendly, non-toxic, hypoallergenic, and pH-balanced, allowing it to work harmoniously with your body.
Its gentle formula also makes it compatible with a wide variety of sex toys and condoms, providing versatility and peace of mind for all users.
The texture offers a slippery glide, enhancing the smoothness and overall pleasure during solo play or sex with your partner.
The Importance of pH Balance in a Water-Based Lube
Maintaining the natural pH balance of the vagina is important for preventing irritation and infections.
As a result, many natural water-based lubricants are formulated with an optimal pH range of 3.5 to 4.5 to align with your body’s natural pH levels.
Using personal lubes with a high pH could potentially disrupt this balance.
Lubricant Compatibility with Condoms and Toys
One of the major advantages of water-based personal lubricants is their compatibility with a wide range of materials.
Generally, water-based lubes are safe to use with:
- Latex Condoms: Unlike oil-based lubes, which can degrade latex.
- Polyisoprene Condoms: Another type of condom material compatible with water-based lubes.
- Silicone Toys: While silicone-based lubes can react with and damage silicone toys, water-based ones are safe.
- Other Toy Materials: Including glass, metal, and plastic.
Always double-check the product packaging to confirm compatibility, especially with specific types of condoms or toy materials.
However, many prefer silicone lubes because they retain moisture better than water-based lubes, which is perfect for sensitive anal sex, and to help with vaginal dryness.
If you must use a silicone lube with a silicone sex toy, consider protecting it with a condom. It actually works well and makes cleanup a snap.
Lube Use and Application
Water-based lubricants are easy to use. Simply apply the amount you need to the areas you want to lubricate during sexual activity. These areas are typically the penis, vagina, anus, or your favorite sex toy.
One drawback to using a natural water-based lube is the potential need to reapply more often.
This need is because water-based lubes can sometimes be absorbed or dry out faster than a silicone lube, particularly during those marathon sex sessions.
And obviously, they will rinse away quickly if used in water, so they are not the best choice for those morning shower sex sessions!
Making Homemade Lube (Check the Label)
While most of us like the convenience of buying a tube of personal lubricant that’s ready to go, some look for ways to make their own lube using ingredients like aloe vera, coconut water, coconut oil, or other types of organic ingredients.
Use caution with these DIY options. If you decide to “go for it”, make sure you trust the source of the ingredients you’re using. It’s important to ensure the purity to avoid potential irritation or infection risks.
Additionally, be especially careful with essential oils; they should be properly diluted if used externally and are generally not recommended for internal use due to the risk of irritation.
If you’re still curious and want to try making your own, know that not all oil-based ingredients are safe to use as a personal lubricant, and some can still interfere with latex condoms or disrupt the body’s pH levels.
If you experience any irritation, discomfort, or suspect an infection after using any lubricant (natural or otherwise), stop using it and talk with your doctor.
Severe symptoms, such as burning, itching, unusual discharge, or pain, should be taken care of immediately.
Which Natural Water-Based Lube is Best?
Ultimately, the best natural water-based lubricant for you depends on your personal needs and preferences.
Consider the ingredient list, pH information, and compatibility requirements, and search online for some user reviews.
Often, the advice of others who have actually used a natural water-based lube and compared it to other lubes will help you make an informed choice.
Final Thoughts
Exploring all these options and understanding the key features will help you find a natural water-based lubricant that meets your needs.
Considering the growing popularity of natural lubricants, it’s important to choose options that are free from harsh chemicals and synthetic ingredients, ensuring they are at body-safe pH levels and are eco-friendly.
Together with your partner, you’re sure to find a brand or style that contributes to a comfortable and enjoyable sex life.
