Recommended lubes and moisturizers.

Written By Ellie Cross

It’s time to shop for some self-care essentials, and this time, we’re talking about high-quality lubes and vaginal/vulvar moisturizers. Investing in quality products is key, as they can make all the difference in comfort and pleasure. Using just any old lube can lead to irritation, infections, or allergic reactions, so treat yourself to something that truly supports your body during this sensitive time! In this blog, we’ll guide you through the essentials of choosing the product, highlighting what to seek out and what to steer clear of. Plus, we’ll share our top recommendations to make shopping a breeze.

Water-based, silicone-based, oil-based, aloe-infused, CBD-infused—it's a world of options out there! Where do you even start? Let’s break down which type of lubricant is best suited for your needs so you can make the most informed choice.

Water-based: best for sensitive skin, use with condoms and toys, and easy clean up.

    • Gentle on sensitive skin.

    • Won't break down condoms.

    • They’re easy to clean off toys, reducing the risk of bacterial growth.

    • Evaporate and/or are absorbed faster than other types, therefore you may have to reapply more often.

    • Wash off quickly, making them less ideal for love-making in wet environments such as the shower.

Silicone-based: perfect for those extended moments of intimacy.

    • Longest-lasting option, decreasing the need to reapply.

    • There is some concern that they can break down silicone toys though the exact data on this is mixed.

    • Silicone is a synthetic ingredient that some may be sensitive to.

Aloe-infused: most are technically water-based with the added bonus of lasting longer and soothing the skin.

    • Won't break down latex condoms and silicone toys.

    • Easy clean up.

    • Not ideal for those who have an aloe-sensitivity - if you're unsure test a small amount on the underside of your wrist a few hours before using the product on your nether regions.

    • Stop use if redness, burning or stinging occurs.

  • Note: You might be tempted to reach for plain aloe vera gel, and while it’s worth a shot, many find that it tends to dry out quickly and doesn’t offer the smooth glide you really need for intimacy.

Oil-based: best for surface-level skin nourishment and hydration.

    • Long-lasting and hydrates skin.

    Note: While oil-based lubricants can certainly provide comfort for dry skin, they only offer surface relief and don’t reach the underlying layers of skin and tissue. For that, a vaginal moisturizer is your best bet, and we’ll dive into that topic shortly.

    • Oil based lubes are NOT compatible with dental dams or condoms as they can cause the latex to breakdown.

    • May stain clothing/sheets.

    • Difficult to clean off of toys which can lead to bacterial growth.

    • Some people report infections after use.

      Coconut oil has antibacterial properties that can disrupt the natural flora, potentially allowing harmful bacteria to thrive and lead to infections.

    • Natural oil-based lubes are going to have the fewest ingredients, thus avoiding unnecessary fragrances and preservatives.

    • Options include: vitamin E oil, coconut oil, grape seed oil, sunflower oil, hemp seed oil, and olive oil to name a few.

    • Opt for organic when possible and use a fresh jar dedicated for use in the bedroom.

CBD-infused lube: best for muscle relaxation.*

  • *It's important to mention that research on the use of CBD in lubricants is still limited. However, proponents suggest several potential benefits. As always, it's best to consult your doctor before trying any new product to ensure it’s right for you.

    • CBD is thought to reduce inflammation, boost blood flow, and promote muscle relaxation, making CBD-infused lubricants an exciting option for women dealing with pain during intercourse related to pelvic floor overactivity.

    • Some report more intense orgasms with use of CBD infused products.

    • Currently, CBD products aren't tightly regulated, so it's crucial to source your CBD from a trusted supplier.

    • Keep in mind that many CBD-infused lubricants contain oil, which can compromise the effectiveness of condoms and dental dams.

    • Can be very expensive.

  • Do not use just any old CBD oil as lube, make sure it's been specifically formulated for use in intimate areas.

Vaginal/vulvar moisturizers:

Lubricants are great for addressing immediate friction concerns during intimate moments, but moisturizers are your long-term allies in combating vaginal dryness. Designed for daily use, they provide lasting hydration and comfort, much like how your face moisturizer helps keep fine lines at bay.

Needing extra hydration outside of intimate moments might be something you consider if you experience the following day-to-day:

  • Irritation

  • Itching

  • Burning

  • Soreness

Before selecting an over-the-counter vaginal moisturizer, consult your healthcare provider to determine the best option for you. They will ensure vaginal dryness is indeed the culprit for your symptoms and might also recommend combining a vaginal moisturizer with other treatments for optimal relief from vaginal dryness.

    • Eases irritation and itching.

    • Improves the integrity of vaginal tissue.

    • Helps vaginal tissue stay more flexible and supple.

    • Vaginal moisturizers should be used regularly, ideally 3 to 7 times a week, as it may take several weeks of consistent application to notice improvements.

    • If you discontinue use, symptoms are likely to resurface.

    • Not intended for use as a lubricant during sexual activity.

  • Important note: In some situations, a topical vaginal estrogen cream might be necessary to address hormone imbalances. Some studies indicate that this can be a safe choice for breastfeeding mothers, but it’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider to ensure it’s right for you.

Ingredients to avoid:

There are certain ingredients you’ll definitely want to steer clear of! As of this writing, all the recommended products are, to the best of my knowledge, free from these questionable ingredients. If you decide to explore other options, here’s a handy list to help you avoid any potential pitfalls:

  • Fragrant, numbing, tingling or flavored lubes.

  • Glycerin - a sugar alcohol that can increase the risk of yeast infections and UTIs, especially for people who are already prone to them.

  • Nonoxynol-9 - spermicide that can be irritating.

  • Petroleum/petrochemicals - petroleum-based lubricants can increase the risk of infection because they can trap bacteria. One study found that women who used petroleum jelly in their vagina were 2.2 times more likely to test positive for bacterial vaginosis.

  • Propylene glycol - a preservative that can irritate the vaginal and rectal areas. 

  • Chlorhexidine gluconate - an antibacterial preservative found in some sex lubricants that can disrupt your natural microbiome, cause irritation and/or allergic reaction.

  • Parabens - have been linked to cancer.

  • Alcohol (any ingredient that end in “-ol” is suspicious) - dries out the vaginal tissue, altering pH and causing irritation.

  • Never use baby oil or vaseline - they can be very irritating to sensitive tissue.

Additional tips to take the best care down there to avoid irritation, prevent infection and nourish tissues:

  • Don’t forget to hydrate! Not only will this help your body produce natural lubrication for intercourse, but it will also keep your urine nice and diluted which is great for reducing skin irritation and preventing UTIs.

  • Wear cotton underwear - synthetic materials like nylon and spandex trap heat and moisture, creating an ideal environment for yeast infections to thrive. To promote optimal vaginal health, opt for natural, breathable fabrics—especially cotton underwear.

  • Avoid soaps, douches and other cleaning products - these have a basic pH, while vaginas naturally have a more acidic pH.

  • If you are having difficulty with painful sex speak with a qualified professional who can find the right solution for you.

  • Witch hazel is a common ingredient in many postpartum feminine hygiene products because it can reduce soothe inflamed skin. However, overuse can lead to contact dermatitis (irritation) which is the last thing you want during this sensitive time.

Sources:

Ellie Cross
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