Slippery when wet, baby - let's talk silicone lube!
There are two main groups of lube: Water-based and silicone-based, and this blog post is about the latter.
Silicone lube is free from scent and aftertaste, making it a good choice if you prefer something that doesn't alter the smell or taste of sex. It feels like light baby oil, but it has one main difference: It's safe to use with condoms. We know many peeps who love the feel and smell of baby oil, but it's not good for condoms - or your vagina.
Is silicone lubricant vagina-friendly?
There is an ongoing discussion here at Sh! about whether or not silicone-based lube is suitable for everyday use. We have found that some team members have no problems with it, whereas others get bacterial vaginosis when using silicone lube too often.
Silicone-based lube is water-resistant and doesn't flush out of the vagina as easily as water-based lube. Silicone-based lube has to be washed off with soap, which isn't a vagina-friendly practice. The vagina is self-cleaning and doesn't appreciate having its pH altered. Not using soap (because it's unhealthy for the vagina) means the lube clings to the vaginal membranes, trapping bacteria. This build-up can lead to a vaginal itch for some folks.
But - some say silicone lube is better than a water-based lubricant as it won't typically cause an allergic reaction or skin irritation, whereas some ingredients in water-based lubricants, like parabens or glycerin, can cause allergic reactions or create a haven for yeast infections.
The best thing we can advise is to try small amounts of silicone-based lube and pay attention to how your vagina reacts.
Silicone-based lube is long-lasting and non-sticky
We tend to recommend silicone-based lube for when you need long-lasting slipperiness. It doesn't dry out like water-based lube and is often used for anal sex. There is no gloopiness or sticky residue, just extra-slippery sex & pleasure!
A little bit of silicone lube goes a long way. A few drops are all you need.
Silicone-based lube is fantastic for playing in the hot tube, bathtub or shower. It's not water-soluble, so you'll still feel deliciously wet and slippery, even in hot water. Just be aware that the lube makes tiles slippy, so be careful when getting out of the shower or tub.
Sex with silicone lubricant
- Are you a fan of long masturbation or couple's sessions? You will eventually run out of natural juices, even if you produce lots, and a few drops of silicone lube enhances play.
- Silicone lube is super-sexy for frotting and tribbing. Women and vulva-owning people need a lot of clitoral stimulation to orgasm. Rubbing and grinding against something or someone is not only arousing, but also very orgasm-reliable. A slick of silicone lube ensures you can keep going for as long as you like.
- Hand jobs on both female and male genitalia feel fantastic with silicone- lube. The lube warms up quickly, and the slipperiness is erotic.
- Use silicone lube for all-over massages. Top to bottom > front to back > all over!
- Want to play with breasts and nipples? Silicone lube is perfect!
- As mentioned, silicone lube is often the preferred lube for anal sex. The anus isn't self-lubricating, and you need to add moisture for comfortable and pain-free play.
- It's also perfect for sex in water.
The disadvantages of silicone-based lubricants
There are a couple of downsides to using silicone-based lube, even if your vagina is fine with it.
Silicone lube can be tricky to wash off, whether from your body, clothing or bedding. This isn't a fluid to use with your expensive sheets - chances are you will get stains you can't wash out.
Also, if you are using silicone sex toys, we recommend choosing a water-based lube instead. Over time, silicone lube can damage the surface of your toy, so better safe than sorry!
However, silicone-based lube works perfectly with plastic, glass or steel toys.
