A good lubricant is essential to having an enjoyable experience during foreplay and during sex. However, not all household products are safe to use. The pH of mouthwash, soaps and hand moisturizers is different from that of the vagina, which can cause irritation or an infection.
Oil-based lubes can also break down latex (polyisoprene) condoms and dental dams, which may lead to unintended pregnancy or STIs. For this reason, a silicone blend is preferable.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a natural lubricant that’s popular among many people looking for safer alternatives to the over-the-counter lubricants on the market. It’s safe to use with a condom (just make sure it’s latex-free), can be used to moisturize the skin, and is great for dryness. It can also be used for oral sex and is easy to wash off.
It’s important to choose organic virgin coconut oil, as it hasn’t been chemically processed. However, it can still have additives like preservatives and flavorings. It’s best to avoid these ingredients, since they can irritate the skin “down there” and could trigger an infection.
Some women may have a reaction to coconut oil, especially if they are allergic to it or have a yeast infection. It’s important to test out coconut oil on a small patch of skin before using it for sex.
It’s important to note that coconut oil is not a vaginal moisturizer and shouldn’t be used to treat any type of infection or irritation. It can clog the pores, which may lead to inflammation and bacteria. It can also be sticky and can stain sheets and clothing. If you are experiencing a yeast infection or vaginal irritation, consult with your doctor for advice on treatment. They may recommend a different type of lubricant or suggest that you try a natural remedy, such as apple cider vinegar or shea butter.
Almond Oil
The same sort of cooking oil you might find in your pantry, sweet almond oil is thin and silky and makes for an excellent lubricant. It has a sexy scent that beats the stink of stir fry any day and it’s full of antioxidants to soothe delicate skin. It’s also one of the safest oil-based lubes for genital use as it is unlikely to cause any issues with yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis if you are prone to these problems.
However, just like coconut oil, it’s important to test it on your skin before using it in a more intimate setting. Some people may react to it with itching, rash, or burning, so be sure to test it on your arm or leg first. It can also degrade latex or jelly rubber sex toys, so it’s best to only use it with non-latex materials.
You’ll want to make sure you choose unrefined almond oil, not refined, as this option retains more of the beneficial vitamins and minerals. And just like other cooking oils, it’s a good idea to avoid those that have been processed with heat and harsh chemicals since these go through a lot of damage during the manufacturing process. Also, make sure you don’t apply it directly to the mouth as it can irritate your gums.
Olive Oil
The kitchen staple is a great natural option for moisturizing the skin, but it’s not as effective for masturbation or vaginal penetration. Olive oil is also not water-soluble and can permanently stain sheets or clothes. Plus, it may make you or your partner more prone to yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis if you are susceptible to those conditions.
It is a safe choice for oral sex, however, as it’s edible and free from additives that can be harmful to the body. You can buy a pure, unscented oil that is safe for this purpose or opt for an organic version to avoid added chemicals. Make sure you do a patch test by applying the oil to the inside of your elbow before using it on your skin. If it causes rashes or itchiness, you are likely allergic to the oil and should seek out an alternative.
As with coconut oil, you should only use extra virgin olive oil to ensure that it doesn’t contain any added ingredients that could irritate your body. You should also be careful with it around latex and jelly rubber sex toys as the oil can degrade them. Additionally, it’s not a good idea to use it during pregnancy because the hormonal shifts can make you more prone to vaginal infections like yeast or bacterial vaginosis.
Jojoba Oil
The thick, golden oil that comes from the seeds of the jojoba shrub is a non-toxic plant food and insect deterrent. It forms a physical barrier that prevents insects from landing on the crop and laying eggs, which means it’s a great alternative to toxic chemical pesticides. Plus, jojoba oil can be grown on marginal land, which is a win for biodiversity and resource conservation.
In addition to being a natural lubricant, jojoba oil is also an effective moisturizer that can soothe dry skin and lips. It also helps balance sebum production, which is good news for those with oily or combination skin. Jojoba oil can also be used to treat dandruff, and can help moisturize and protect hair.
It can also be added to other oils to create a scented personal lubricant that smells good or is a great massage oil. Blended jojoba oil is often used as a base for facial serums and makeup, as well as for moisturizing the hands.
If you’re going to use jojoba oil as a lubricant, be aware that it may degrade latex and polyisoprene lubricants and can cause irritation. It’s also a good idea to avoid it in situations where yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis are a risk. It’s also not as water-resistant as other lubes, so you may need to reapply more frequently.
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