Water-Based Lubricants

Water Based Lubricants

Proper lubrication is essential to safety and pleasure in the bedroom. If you're using sex toys, experimenting with anal play or faced with problems related to vaginal dryness, personal lubricants can help to make experiences more comfortable and even heighten sensations. There are many types of lubricants available on the market today. One of the most popular varieties is the water based lube. Walgreens has dozens of water based lubricants available to help you find the ideal formula.

What Are Water Based Lubricants?

A water based lubricant is a product designed to reduce friction during foreplay, intercourse and masturbation. The term "water based" describes the key ingredient in the lubricant--water. Lubricant products that are water based will typically have water listed as one of the first ingredients in the formula. They are also usually labeled "water based" on the front of their packaging to make them easy to identify. Lubricants may have silicone or oil as their key ingredients instead of water. These products are known as "silicone based" and "oil based" lubricants, respectively. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks. This makes it important that you understand the differences before you select a personal lubricant.

Benefits of Water Based Lubes

Water based lubricants offer many benefits when compared with oil and silicone based formulas. Because the lubricants contain water, they can be easily cleaned and cared for using plain water and a little soap. This makes washing your hands, bathing and cleaning sex toys simple and convenient. Many men and women like the lightweight gel consistency of water based lubricants, as they feel wet and natural and reduce friction without leaving behind a greasy or slippery coating on the skin. Unlike oil based lubricants, water based lubes can be safely used with latex condoms. They are also safe for use with all types of sex toys. Oil based lubricants can damage the materials of many toys. Silicone lubricants should not be used with toys constructed out of silicone. Only water based lubricants can be universally used. This makes them more versatile for individuals and couples who own multiple toys.

Limitations of Water Based Lubes

Although water based lubricants have many benefits, there are some drawbacks associated with their use. Water based lubricants have a tendency to become quickly absorbed by the skin. This could lead to interruptions in foreplay, masturbation or intercourse to reapply more lubricant. In addition, water based lubricants cannot be used in the tub, shower, hot tub or pool because they dissolve in water. A water based formula may also not be thick enough to make anal intercourse and anal play with sex toys comfortable. As a result, many experts recommend silicone based lubes for exploring anal pleasure and prostate massage.

Selecting the Right Lube

To select the right lube for your intimate needs, you'll need to consider what types of sexual activities you will use the lubricant for, what types of contraceptives and toys you will be using (if any) and your own personal preferences. You can also consider whether or not you wish to purchase lubricants that are flavored or that produce stimulating sensations like tingling or heat.