Your Guide to Body-Safe Lubes and What to Look For

When it comes to mind-bending, breathtaking, best-of-your-life sex, a great lube can make the difference between an unforgettable experience…and one that falls a little flat. Personal lubricant makes for a comfortable, smoother, and more pleasurable encounter.  The problem is: Most lubes are filled with questionable ingredients that can mess with your pH and leave your overall vaginal health in shambles — talk about a slippery slope.

We’re here to explain everything you need to know about lubes, from ingredients to avoid to body-safe brands (La Nua, for example) to add to your shopping list. With the right solution, you can ensure your adventures remain sensational, and your health stays on the up and up. 

Lube Ingredients to Avoid

You want to be able to trust the pleasure products in your toy chest. But when it comes to lube, this is easier said than done. It might be surprising to hear, but a lot of popular, over-the-counter lubricants are chock-full of things you don’t want anywhere near your vagina.

Here’s a short list of common harmful ingredients to steer clear of when you’re shopping for lube:

Parabens

Parabens might be great at keeping your lube fresh, but they’re also sneaky little hormone disruptors. Mimicking estrogen in your body? No thanks! These guys can mess with your reproductive health and even up your risk of certain cancers.

Glycerin

Glycerin is a seemingly harmless ingredient that can cause yeast infections and vaginal irritation. If you’re prone to yeast infections, we recommend avoiding this sweet-sounding ingredient.

Petrochemicals

Petrochemicals — sounds like something you’d find in a gas station, not your lube, right? Well, you’d be surprised. Originally derived from petroleum, petrochemicals can disturb your natural flora, causing irritation, infections, and general discomfort.

Artificial fragrances

Artificial fragrances are a no-go (this includes “perfume,” “fragrance oil,” or “parfum”). They’re often packed with chemicals that can cause itching, allergic reactions, and even affect your pH. (Think: Surprise urinary tract infections, yeast infections, and BV.) A happy vagina is a balanced vagina, so avoid lubes with synthetic fragrances or anything that sounds like it should be in a Yankee Candle store.

Sulfates

Sulfates might make your shampoo sudsy, but they’re way too harsh for your hoo-ha. These detergents can strip away your natural moisture and leave you feeling dry and irritated. (Literally, the last thing you want to feel when getting it on.)

Alcohol

Alcohol might be great for happy hour, but it’s definitely not welcome in your lube. It dries everything out, which can lead to irritation, discomfort, and even tiny tears that make you more susceptible to infections. The best way to keep your honeypot happy? Stick to alcohol-free lubricants.

Types of Lubes (Plus What to Look For)

When selecting your new favorite lube, knowing the different types on the market and what to look for can make all the difference in ensuring your best intercourse yet. Consider these the “tried and true” when it comes to different kinds of lubricants.

Water-Based Lube

Pros: Water-based lubes are the most common. You might have some on your nightstand! If so, you’ll know they’re a perfect match for condoms and sex toys.

Cons: When things are heating up in the sack, you don’t necessarily want to stop and reapply. These lubes dry out quickly, so just keep that in mind.

How to shop it: Check the labels to ensure that glycerin and parabens aren’t part of the recipe. Look for the term “pH-balanced” as a hint if you’re concerned about efficacy.

Silicone-Based Lube

Pros: If you and your S/O have been known to (ahem) go the distance, silicone-based lubes are the way to go. These lubricants are long-lasting and, as a bonus, great for sexy time in the bath or shower. 

Cons: Although it may seem counterintuitive, silicone-based lubes aren’t compatible with silicone sex toys. They can degrade the toy’s material over time, causing it to become sticky, damaged, or break down. Additionally, silicone-based lubes are difficult to clean up — not quite the mess one usually aims for when initiating play.

How to shop it: Ensure your selection is 100% silicone without added fragrances or colors. 

Natural or Organic Lube

Pros: Natural lubricants are often made with soothing ingredients like aloe vera. This means they’re typically free from pesky chemicals, are gentle on the skin, and are unlikely to cause irritation. 

Cons: Don’t expect organic lubes to perform like synthetic lubes. They won’t last as long, so prepare to apply, apply, apply. They also carry a hefty price tag.

How to shop it: A few keywords will tell you whether the juice is worth the squeeze on a natural lube. See: Certified organic, for one. You’ll also want to scout for a short ingredient list of mostly gentle components.

How to Use Lube

Here’s how to make the most of your lube experience: 

A little goes a long way. Too much lube can be messy and not in a good way. Practice judiciousness when applying your lubricant. 

Reapply as needed to maximize your comfort. Don’t be shy — reapply! While it might feel like an awkward interruption at first, it’ll be worth it when things are smooth and comfortable.

Store properly for best results. Keep your lube in a cool, dry place in between uses. This will ensure it stays fresh and effective for longer. 

Test in small doses.  We know. When your new La Nua lube comes in the mail, you might be tempted to go crazy. Try to contain that excitement for a little skin test to make sure it’s compatible with your body and preferences before going ham.

Double-check compatibility with condoms and toys: If your partner is “donning his party hat,” make sure your lube is compatible with condoms (or any toys you’re using) to avoid damage or reduced effectiveness. Hint: This is especially poignant with latex or silicone. 

The Bottom Line

Choosing a body-safe lube isn’t just about adding spice to your sex life — it’s about prioritizing your vaginal health. By opting for lubricants that are free from harmful ingredients, you can protect your body while ensuring a more comfortable, enjoyable experience. Remember, your sexual health and satisfaction go hand in hand, so it’s worth taking the time to pinpoint the best lube for intercourse.

Whether you’re looking into silicone vs water-based lube, seeking good lube alternatives, or trying to find the best lube for anal play or flavored options, there’s something out that’ll fulfill your wants and needs.

And, if you want our two cents, we recommend La Nua. They’re committed to the cleanest ingredients so that your vaginal health is protected, and that’s just one reason why we love them. La Nua’s products are expertly formulated with pure, effective ingredients. Plus, with a variety of body-safe flavors, there’s truly something for everyone in their product line. (We’re obsessed with their Honey Vanilla Lube.)