Lubricant

Lubricant (usually just called lube) is a slippery liquid or gel used during sex to reduce friction and make things more comfortable. The body produces some natural lubrication during arousal, but it's not always enough — and for anal sex, lube is essential because the anus doesn't self-lubricate at all. Using lube isn't a sign that something is wrong. It's just practical.

• Lube reduces friction during sex, making it more comfortable and reducing the risk of small tears.
• It's essential for anal sex — the anus doesn't produce its own lubrication.
• There are three main types: water-based, silicone-based, and oil-based. Each has pros and cons.
• Water-based and silicone-based lubes are safe with condoms. Oil-based lubes damage latex condoms.
• Needing lube doesn't mean you're not aroused enough. Bodies vary, and there are loads of reasons natural lubrication might not be sufficient.

The three types

Water-based lube — the most versatile and most common. Safe with all condoms and sex toys. Easy to wash off. The downside is that it can dry out and need reapplying. Good all-rounder.

Silicone-based lube — lasts longer than water-based and stays slippery without reapplying. Safe with latex condoms. Not safe with silicone sex toys (it can damage them). Slightly harder to wash off, but great for anal sex or anything that needs longer-lasting lubrication.

Oil-based lube — includes things like coconut oil and some commercial products. Lasts well, but damages latex and polyisoprene condoms — making them more likely to break. Only use oil-based lube if you're not using latex condoms. Also not recommended for vaginal use as it can increase the risk of infections like thrush.

Why people use it

There are loads of reasons to use lube, and none of them are embarrassing:

• Anal sex — non-negotiable. The anus doesn't make its own lubrication, so without lube, anal sex is painful and can cause tears that increase STI risk.
• Vaginal sex — even when someone is aroused, natural lubrication varies depending on where they are in their menstrual cycle, stress levels, hydration, medication, and loads of other factors. Lube fills the gap.
• Condom use — condoms can create friction, and adding a bit of lube (on the outside of the condom) makes things more comfortable and can reduce the chance of the condom breaking.
• Masturbation — some people use lube during masturbation for comfort or enhanced sensation.
• General comfort — if something feels dry or uncomfortable, lube helps. That's it.

Things people get wrong

"If you need lube, you're not turned on enough." Wrong. Natural lubrication varies hugely from person to person and from day to day. Hormones, medication (like the contraceptive pill), stress, dehydration, and where you are in your cycle all affect it. Needing lube is normal, not a failure of arousal.

"You can use anything as lube." Don't. Hand lotion, Vaseline, baby oil, and cooking oil are not designed for sexual use. Some can cause irritation, infections, or break down condoms. Use a product made for the purpose.

"Lube is only for older people." It's for anyone. There's no age at which lube becomes appropriate — if it makes things more comfortable, use it.

Things people ask about lubricant

Where do I buy it?

Pharmacies, supermarkets, and online. It's usually in the same aisle as condoms. Some sexual health clinics give it out for free.

Can I use it with condoms?

Water-based and silicone-based lubes are safe with all condoms. Oil-based products (including coconut oil, Vaseline, and baby oil) damage latex condoms and should not be used with them.

How much should I use?

Start with a small amount and add more if needed. There's no "too much" in terms of safety — you just don't want things so slippery that a condom slides off. A few drops to start, then adjust.

Can lube cause infections?

Some lubes contain ingredients (like glycerin or fragrances) that can irritate sensitive skin or increase the risk of thrush. If you're prone to infections, look for lube that's pH-balanced, fragrance-free, and glycerin-free.

Lubricant, usually called lube, is a slippery liquid or gel you put on during sex to reduce rubbing and make things more comfortable. The body does make some of its own wetness when someone is turned on, but it's not always enough. Using lube doesn't mean anything is wrong. It's just practical.

For anal sex, lube is essential. The bum doesn't make its own wetness at all, so without lube it would be painful and could cause small tears in the skin.

There are different types. Water-based lube is the most common and works with all condoms. Silicone-based lube lasts longer and is good for anal sex. Oil-based products like coconut oil or Vaseline should not be used with condoms because they can make condoms break.

You can buy lube at pharmacies, supermarkets, or online. It's usually near the condoms. Some clinics give it out for free.

Don't use hand cream, lotion, or cooking oil instead of proper lube. They can cause irritation or infections.

Lots of people use lube, at any age. Needing it doesn't mean you're not turned on enough. How much wetness the body makes changes depending on stress, hormones, medicines, and all sorts of other things.