Ready to become an expert in all things slippery, sensual, and sexy? Then read on, lube noob:

What exactly is lube?

Technically, a lubricant is any substance that helps reduce friction.

Lubricants are often used for things like bicycle chains and machines to help cut down on the friction caused by moving parts. Personal lubricants contain different ingredients, but the idea is the same -- they’re used to reduce the friction on your own moving “parts” to make sex and masturbation irritation-free, by making these activities easier and more enjoyable. Sounds simple enough, right? But if that’s all there is to it, why are there so many different kinds of lubes out there? Because like condoms and vibrators, different types of lubricants offer different benefits. 

Let’s begin with the bases: water, silicone, hybrid, and oil lubes

Personal lubricants can come in liquid and gel forms, and each formula has a base ingredient that accounts for its unique texture. Let’s take a look at the three main lube bases and what they mean for you:

1.) Water-Based Lubricants

Water-based lubricants are by far the most common type of lube and for good reason.

Because they’re water-based, they’re easy to clean up (and to wash out of clothing or sheets). And of course, since pure water is about the most natural ingredient out there, these lubes can also be very gentle and soothing to your skin.

Most of ASTROGLIDE’s water-based lubes can be used with condoms without compromising their integrity (meaning they won’t cause condoms to rip or tear more easily). They can also be used with toys like vibrators -- even those made of silicone material.

2.) Silicone Based Lubricant

Silicone is a material made from alternate chains of silicone (a natural element) and oxygen atoms.

It can come in many forms, including rubber, resin, and oil -- those different forms make it great for everything from medical applications to insulation. Its liquid form is especially effective when used as the main ingredient in personal lubricants.

What makes silicone-based lubes so great?

For one, they have a very unique, silky feel that is soothing to the skin and leaves it feeling soft and smooth. Silicone is also hypoallergenic, so it’s a great choice for lube users with sensitive skin or allergies. And since these lubes contain mostly silicone instead of water, they often last longer and need to be reapplied less often.

The best thing about silicone-based lubes? They’re great for water play.

Unlike water-based lubes that would be quickly washed away in the shower or tub, silicone lubes (especially when in gel form) stay put and keep friction at bay while you enjoy some slippery, wet fun.

Learn more about silicone lube here.

Which type of lube is best for you?

Now that you have a “base understanding” of different lube formulas, you can begin to get an idea of the lube that’s best for you by deciding exactly what you’d like to use your lube for.

Lube for Solo Play

If you're looking to use lube for solo masturbation, you have plenty of lube options.

Water-based, silicone-based, or hybrid lubes can work well, as can liquids and gels. If you’re relying solely on stimulating yourself with your hands, you may opt for a water-based liquid lube like ASTROGLIDE Liquid. This lube is also safe to use with toys of any type. If you tend to really savor your alone time and enjoy longer masturbation sessions, a lube like ASTROGLIDE Diamond Silicone Gel might be a better choice, as you’ll find yourself having to reapply less often. The best thing about using lube on your own is that you only have your preferences to consider, so you can take your time experimenting until you find the formula that’s perfect for you!

Lube for Use With Condoms

If you’re playing with a friend (or friends!) both water and silicone-based lubes are good choices.

Most water- and silicone-based lubricants are latex safe (always make sure to check the packaging for condom compatibility). Again, you’ll definitely want to steer clear of oil-based lubes, as these can erode latex and make your safe sex practices anything but. For a latex-friendly lube with gentle ingredients and a soft, soothing feel that relieves dryness and irritation, try sharing a bottle of ASTROGLIDE Natural Liquid with your partner.

Thinking of bringing toys into the bed with you, and need a toy-safe lube?

For toys coated in silicone gel or made with silicone resin, opt for a water-based lube that won’t cause the surface of your toys to break down. For toys made of other materials like glass or steel, both water-based, silicone-based, and hybrid lubes will all work wonders. ASTROGLIDE Toy 'n Joy is one of our best lubes for sex toys as it was specifically tested to be safe on most sex toy materials and surfaces and cleans up easily.

Lube for Playing in Water

Want to do more than frolic in the waves during your beach vacation?

Plan to christen your newly remodeled shower or make your hot tub even hotter? Believe it or not, using water alone for lubrication can actually increase friction and make things even less enjoyable for you and your partner. So if it’s water play you’re after, you’ll definitely want to invest in a silicone-based lube or a hybrid lube. Try ASTROGLIDE Diamond Silicone Gel first, as its thicker formula has more stay-put power -- definitely a plus during water play.

Sensitive Skin Gel

Are you prone to allergic reactions like hives or rashes, and need lube for sensitive skin?

Or have you experienced discomfort or burning when using lubes in the past? If so, you may want to use a personal lubricant that’s specially formulated to be gentle. ASTROGLIDE Sensitive Skin Gel and ASTROGLIDE Natural Liquid are both great choices. Not only are these lubes fragrance and coloring-free, but they’re also made from ingredients that have been tested and proven to provide comfort and enjoyment. If you’re worried about having a bad reaction, try applying your new lube to a small section of your forearm to see how your skin reacts before moving on to more delicate areas.

Personal Lubricants Aren’t Just for Sex

Although sex may be the first thing that springs to mind when you think of personal lubricants, they aren’t for intercourse alone.

In fact, many women use lube to help ease the discomfort that comes from vaginal dryness. Vaginal dryness can occur at any time, though it often becomes a problem for perimenopausal and menopausal women who are experiencing changes in their natural hormone levels. Sound like an issue that’s familiar to you? If so, speaking to your OB/Gyn is always a great idea. She may have some suggestions or insights into your personal situation, and she may even be able to recommend a specific type of lube that’s right for you. If you want to strike out and experiment on your own, try a water-based gel like ASTROGLIDE Gel to start -- it’ll be easy to wash out of fabric and its gel consistency will help it stay where you need it most.

Where to Buy Lube

Now that you know about all the types of lube that are available, you’re probably wondering where you can score some of your own.

Head on over to our product page where you can pick out the best formula for you. Once you’ve decided on your preferred formula, you have lots of options on where to shop. If you’re looking to pick up a whip or vibrator while you’re out, you can always head to your local adult store. If it’s just lube you’re after, you’ll find a wide selection at places like CVS, Walgreens, Target, and Walmart. Just head to the personal care selection -- lubes will usually be displayed near the selection of condoms. You can also buy lube online at major retailers including Amazon.com and Walmart.com.

How to Use Personal Lube: Application

You made it through the Walgreens checkout and home in one piece with your lube -- what now?

When it comes to applying your lube, don’t overthink it -- it’s actually quite simple. Start by applying a pea-sized portion of lube to yourself, your partner or your sex toy of choice. For extra control and to limit spillage, squeeze lube onto your fingertips first, then apply. With a little practice, you’ll be able to estimate pretty closely how much lube you need. Remember, you can always reapply!

How to Store Your Lube

Most lubricants have extremely stable chemical structures.

So when storing them, you don’t need to treat them with the same care you’d give to, say, insulin medication. While there’s no need to stash your lube in the fridge, it’s definitely a good idea to keep it away from direct heat and out of the easy reach of children and pets. While most lubes feature non-toxic formulas, they can all cause digestive issues if consumed in large quantities -- plus cleaning massive amounts of lube from your carpet, sheets, and drapes is a task most of us would like to avoid.

Most personal lubricant users will admit that they had to try out a few different formulas before they found the perfect one for them.

So don’t be shy - start exploring your options. You might find that you or your partner enjoy more than one formula for different reasons. That’s totally okay -- there’s no rule that says you can only own one bottle of lube. So go ahead: experiment, share, play and explore. And most of all, have fun! Still have some questions about lube that we didn’t answer here? Tweet us @ASTROGLIDE -- we’ll be happy to help.