Lubrication is essential to an enjoyable sexual experience, whether anal or vaginal sex. Unfortunately, not all lubricants offer equal results.
Natural lubricants are free from chemicals and additives that could potentially irritate or infect. Look for ones with few ingredients you can pronounce; organic designation is also crucial, as this indicates where those ingredients came from.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera has long been used as an effective solution for skin and hair care, as well as natural vaginal lubricant. Look for products crafted with organically grown aloe plants to ensure it is safe for use; Aloe Cadabra makes an organic personal lubricant and moisturizer made of aloe that may provide exactly this benefit.
Aloe vera is a tropical plant with thick green leaves with white marks on their surfaces that contain gel that moisturizes and soothes your skin – it has many applications, including in the intimate area.
Aloe vera provides more health benefits than just natural lubrication; it has been demonstrated to treat heartburn and reduce symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome like diarrhea and belly pain. Aloe vera is also an antioxidant, and may help strengthen your immune system thanks to its vitamins A, C and E content as well as its folic acid and choline components.
Petroleum Jelly
Petroleum jelly (sometimes referred to as white petrolatum, soft paraffin wax or kerosene) is a semisolid mixture of hydrocarbons derived from petroleum that’s both odorless and tasteless, creating an effortless feel against skin. People use petroleum jelly for its moisturizing and antimicrobial benefits while simultaneously protecting minor cuts or scrapes with minimal friction between body parts. Chafing can be reduced using this barrier technique too!
Vaginal lubricants should never use petroleum jelly because it can break down latex condoms and stimulate an overgrowth of yeast, leading to bacterial vaginosis. Furthermore, it can irritate skin irritations or block pores; making it an ineffective way of providing skin lubrication. Glycerin provides much greater skin hydration.
However, some natural lubricants are made with pure petroleum jelly blended with plant-based ingredients like aloe. These lubricants tend to have more neutral fragrances and don’t need water to clean off, making them safe to use with latex condoms. Furthermore, many contain antioxidants for additional skin benefits.
Vaseline
Petroleum jelly (more commonly known by its brand name Vaseline) is a creamy mixture of mineral oil and waxes used for lubrication, first created by Robert Augustus Chesebrough in 1859. Since its invention it has been in widespread use; many use it to remove eye makeup and long-wear lipstick as well as to protect anal and rectal tissue against irritation. Although available under various brands and formulations it is best to choose triple purified versions to minimize potential carcinogenic ingredients.
Vaseline may be used as a lubricant, but isn’t recommended in intimate scenarios as it may damage latex condoms and trap bacteria that could lead to infection. People seeking thicker lube for anal sex or safe dental dam use should choose water-based lubes designed specifically for this use as they’ll degrade less and wash off quicker when removed after each use.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil might seem an unconventional choice as a lubricant (especially after witnessing viral DIY vaginal hacks), but it actually makes a great lubricant alternative. Long-lasting and cost-efficient compared to traditional options, coconut oil provides long-lasting glide with no adverse reactions or allergic reactions.
Glycerin may disrupt your microbiome or alcohol can dry out sensitive skin – while you likely already have one bottle in your kitchen!
Anna Cabeca of Osteopathic OB/GYN recommends against coconut oil for those prone to vaginal infections or who depend on latex barriers; instead she suggests performing a 24-hour skin patch test on your wrist with coconut oil, in order to determine any irritation or itchy sensations that might occur.
If you decide to use coconut oil, choose unrefined or virgin varieties, as these are less processed alternatives, according to Ross. Any smell or itchiness should be taken as an indicator that it should no longer be used; otherwise consult a physician.
