Let the lube become a fixed ritual

Lube can turn good sex into great sex by reducing friction and facilitating all kinds of penetration.

It can make vaginal penetration comfortable and effortless, oral a better experience for both partners, and its use is essential for safe anal sex.

Whether you're sharing or alone, lubricants are a sensual (and functional) tool for exploring pleasure and sexuality.

Are you a lube expert? Complete beginner? Maybe skeptical? With so many types out there, it's normal to have some questions about the smooth stuff. To help you navigate the options, we have collected answers to the most common questions.

Can lubricants do more harm than good?

It turns out that many commercial lubricants may contain harmful chemicals and irritants.

Regardless of brand, a sex-safe lube is one that A) provides adequate lubrication and B) isn't too chemically dense or "hyperosmolar."

Do you remember osmosis from biology? It is the flow of water between the cells. When there is too much solute on the outside, the water inside the cells will try to balance the pressure. Therefore, hyperosmolar lubricants made with many petrochemicals will draw the water out of the cells of your mucous membranes and dehydrate them. This can be serious. When the cells in your rectal or vaginal tissue are dehydrated and damaged, they are more susceptible to tearing. Not only is this painful, it also increases your risk of getting STDs and other unpleasant guests.

Can saliva be used as a lubricant?

Let's be honest, the most commonly used lubricant is saliva. Aside from being readily available and free, there aren't many good reasons to keep using saliva during sex. First, it dries incredibly quickly, can cause yeast infections in the vagina, and can pass on sexually transmitted infections.

So how do you choose a safe lubricant?

Look at the label of the lubricants you buy and look for products that are made with natural ingredients instead of petrochemicals. Some lubricants a kind of "warming" sensation are generally hyperosmolar. Avoid lube with glycerin as the primary ingredient because it is linked to yeast infections. Try to find something that has natural ingredients for the most sensitive tissues in your body.

Is lube even necessary?

Lube makes penetration better for everyone. It allows you to try more positions, protects your most sensitive tissues, reduces friction and increases comfort. Remember that the anus has no natural lubrication, so lube is key to having a comfortable and SAFE anal experience. When it comes to vaginal sex, the extra slip can actually make it easier to orgasm!