Whether you are a total lube novice, or you have been using it for some time but are looking for new tips on how to get more enjoyment out of it; our lubricant buying guide should help you find the lube for you and answer any questions you may have.Â
Our guide covers some of the most commonly asked lube questions, and will guide your way to finding a lube that works best for you, helping you to maximise your enjoyment when it comes to satisfying sex.
What is lube gel?
Lube is a specially formulated gel or liquid that can be applied to intimate areas to increase pleasure and ease discomfort during sex. During the build-up to sex, your natural moisture usually increases due to heightening sexual excitement. However, for a variety of reasons, you may need a little extra help to achieve enough lubrication so that sex is more pleasurable and to help make it comfortable for both you and your partner.
While natural lubrication can decrease at different points of your life due to stress, medication, health and hormonal changes; using lube can be very effective during these periods.
Even if you don’t have a problem with dryness, lube can be used to help stimulate and enhance sexual experiences and to help make sex more pleasurable in many ways. It can help to increase sensations felt during sex between you and your partner.
What is lube gel used for?
Lube is a specially formulated gel or liquid that can be used on the penis, vagina, and anywhere on your body that you want more slipperiness or to increase the pleasure when you get it on. It gives you something fun to experiment with during sensual play and helps make penetration more pleasurable and comfortable for all involved.
Lube is also particularly important when it comes to anal sex. Unlike the vagina, the anus doesn’t provide any natural form of lubrication, meaning that having some lubricant on hand for anal sex is a must. Want to learn more about anal lubes, check out our article on the best lubes for anal sex.
Why should I use lube gel?
There are many reasons why we think everyone should use lube. In some cases, you may find it’s a necessity (for example in anal sex) but there are several other reasons why you should use lube:
- It can help make the build up to sex more exciting and intense.
- It can make the transition from sensual touch to penetration more seamless.
- Lubricant can make sex more comfortable, especially for those who suffer from vaginal dryness.
- Lube can also be used with sex toys to make masturbation or sensual play more pleasurable.
We think sex feels better with lube, but remember, do your research, explore your options and use a lube that is right for you and use it according to the pack instructions.
What type of lube gel should I use?
There are lots of specialised lubes out there, including anal lube, flavoured lube and some that help you feel slightly different sensations, however, most of them fall into one of two main types:
Water based lube gel
Durex water-based lubes are super light and won’t stain the sheets or your clothes. Most of our formulations are suitable for sensitive skin, and because they’re non-sticky, they’re easy to wash off when you’re done. We have lots of different water-based lubes to choose from including one that doubles-up as a Durex play sensual 2 in 1 massage gel, and even a Durex play strawberry flavoured lube gel.
Lubes such as Durex Naturals Intimate Gel are great if you want to steer clear of artificial fragrances, colourants or other ingredients that may not agree with your skin. As well as being made with 100% natural ingredients, our Naturals Intimate range is safe to use with Durex condoms and sex toys.
Silicone based lube gel
Silicone based lube is thicker and glossier than water-based lubricant. Because it doesn’t easily get absorbed into your skin, it lasts much longer. This means you won’t need to interrupt your activities just to put on more lube.
At Night Gallery, we have a great range of silicone lubes for you to choose from. For long-lasting and silky-smooth pleasure, try our Durex Perfect Glide Silicone Based Gel Lube.
Condoms and lube gel: can they be used together?
Most Durex lubes are suitable to use with condoms, but you should always read the label on the bottle just to make sure. If the label does say you’re good to go, then simply add the lube to the outside of the condom once it’s on.
Watch out for oil based lubricants not made by Durex; these are generally not safe to use with condoms as the oil can cause the latex to fail.
Is lube gel safe to swallow?
Most water-based lubes are suitable for oral sex and the good news, if you’re calorie-conscious, is that our flavoured lubricants are completely sugar-free. Lubes such as Durex Play Cherry Lubricant Gel make a fun and tasty addition to oral sex.
How much lubricant gel should I use?
As much as you like. If you’re trying a new lubricant, or this is the first time you’ve used lube, start with a small amount, gently applying it with your fingertips. Then, feel free to add more as and when the mood takes you. Some lubes also double up as massage gel, so why not add a back (and anything else) rub to your sexual repertoire to give your partner an extra treat?
How long can you use that bottle of lube gel after opening?
As a rule, lube should be used within three months of opening the bottle. The best place to store it is in a drawer or cupboard, away from direct heat or sunlight and well away from pets and children.
Can I use lube gel for masturbation?
A big ‘Yes’ to that one. Lube can be a perfect playmate when it comes to masturbation. If you like a little extra stimulation while you masturbate, use our zingy Durex Play Tingling Lubricant Gel.
Hopefully, this has inspired you to dive in and enjoy the wonderful world of lube. Want to know more about all things sex? Head over and check out our Sex blog now. Ready to shop for your perfect lube? Check out our range of lubricants here.
