Lubes help reduce friction between your skin and your partner’s, eliminating any rubbing and chafing that will cause discomfort during the act. To make things more pleasurable, the use of lube can greatly affect the satisfaction both of you can experience. It can be odorless, and some even come in sweet and fruity flavors to level up the night.
It may look simple, but there are a lot of considerations that need to be taken which can make or break the experience for you. We have also asked Dr. Rica Cruz, a sex and relationships therapist, to share her insights and recommendations, so read on to find out more!
Dr. Rica Cruz. PhD, RPsy, is a sex therapist and educator who have partnered with condom brands to promote safe, sexy, and responsible sex all over the country. She is also the CEO of Unprude, a place where sexual wellness is encouraged.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
Experts featured in this article only reviewed the content of our buying guide. They had no part in the selection or ranking of products or services listed.
The products and services listed are ranked independently by the editorial team based on the points mentioned in our thoroughly researched buying guide (as of 01-16-2023).
Here are some key points to consider:
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
Lubes are typically made of a base, which helps maintain the lubrication of the whole solution. There are 4 types of bases used: water, oil, silicone, and natural. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, so let’s go over each one.
Most of the lubricants that are available right now are water-based. Brands produce this type of lube since it is easy to manufacture and feels like natural lubrication. Most people don’t have any adverse effects from it, as water-based lubes are less likely to cause any irritation during sex.
However, water-based lubes are absorbed quickly by the skin, which can dry up while in use. To improve the longevity of its lubrication, some are incorporated with moisturizers, such as carrageenan or aloe vera to soothe the skin and reduce dryness. These lubes are compatible with condoms and sex toys but wash off quickly when doing shower sex.
Oil-based sex lubes are made from plant-based of synthetic oils. They are hydrophobic, which means that they repel water. This makes them hard to wash off, but they don't dry out as quickly during sex. However, an oil-based lube is not compatible with and reacts to latex condoms. This increases the probability for the condom to rupture, rendering the contraceptive ineffective.
These are more suitable for couples who are in long-term relationships and do not use condoms. You should also consider your bedsheets when using oil-based lube, as it can stain fabrics, making laundry a challenge. It's also worth noting that these lubes can stain your clothes, creating some clean-up challenges.
Silicone lubricants contain no water, which is both an advantage and a disadvantage. This makes it feel different compared to the previously mentioned lubes. Silicone isn’t absorbed by the skin, which gives it a lot of possibilities for use, depending on your imagination. For those who are interested in trying anal sex, silicone-based lubes are recommended.
One advantage of this type of lube is that it does not cause any allergic reaction, with most people not experiencing any irritation. Due to the absence of water, silicone-based lubes last longer and tend to wash off easier than oil-based lubes. However, these react with silicone sex toys, so avoid using them with one.
With the growing trend in all-natural ingredients, choosing organic lubes is now easier. These are for people who are concerned about the manufacturing processes and effects of the other types of lubes.
One of the common ingredients in natural lubes is coconut oil. It is safe to be ingested and wears off much longer. A downside of using coconut oil is that it reacts with condoms and is hard to remove if it comes into contact with fabric. Opt for this type of lube if you aren’t planning on using any wearable contraceptives.
Are you in the process of trying out lubes and don’t know which one is for you? Worry not, as there are lubricants available in sachets. This makes it easier to store in case of emergency and is a good way to try out a lube when you are still on the market for one. You can always buy a bottle or tube once you have found what works for you.
If you're wondering, can lube kill sperm? The short answer is yes. There are many lubes with spermicide that helps kill sperm. They can also impede the sperm's mobility.
This may be good if you're practicing family planning, but it won’t help you achieve your goal if you're trying to conceive. In that case, it's best to opt for specially formulated lubes that can help the sperm reach the egg safely.
Looking for a lube that goes beyond the sheets? Check out this one from Jellytime. It's a water-based gel that doesn't just keep sexy time exciting. It also contains nourishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and aloe extract to reduce inflammation and help maintain balance in the vaginal environment.
Another plus is its hypoallergenic and vegan formulation that's made for sensitive skin. Users attest to its safety and say that it doesn't trigger any allergies. It's also free of preservatives and spermicide, so it's a safe lube to use if you're trying to conceive.
From ₱895
The best lube for women's pH is one that contains no harmful chemicals to disrupt the vaginal pH level. With this lube gel from Aloe Cadabra, you can rest easy, since it's pH-balanced, made of 95% aloe vera, and completely vegan. This is the lube to get if you want a natural product.
Avalaible in two variants-aloe vera and Tahitian Vanilla, this personal lubricant is designed to restore a woman's vaginal environment to its natural moisture balance. However, it may dry out more quickly during intercourse compared to other synthetic lubes, so you might need to reapply more often if needed.
One of the problems with conceiving is that intercourse can cause vaginal excretions to dry up. Adding a lube will also hinder sperm mobility, leading to smaller chances of getting pregnant. For couples wanting to have a baby, the Pre-Seed lubricant is made with both pleasure and family planning in mind.
Developed by doctors, this lube is safe and water-soluble. It comes in a special formulation, providing an antioxidant environment to help the sperm survive while on its way to fertilizing the egg. It also mimics the fertile fluids of a woman, helping the sperm cells to swim in. This pack also comes with 9 applicators for convenient lubrication.
Lube’s main purpose is to make things slick and slippery for lovemaking, and this natural lubricant certainly does the job right. With rich and nourishing organic plant oils and butter as its base, it's guaranteed to make intercourse and massages feel luxurious and pleasurable.
This product is popular all over the world for its long-lasting staying power. It definitely doesn't lose its effectiveness over time. However, since it contains coconut oil, it tends to feel gritty in colder weather and needs to be warmed up a bit to liquefy again. Take note, too, that it's not compatible with condoms because of its oil content.
Feeling a bit adventurous in bed? You can't go wrong with a Durex lube. As the leading provider of contraceptives and lubrication, Durex knows a thing or two about spicing up your bedroom game. Their lightweight pleasure gel is perfect for those who enjoy using sex toys and who need to use condoms, since it is compatible with these aids.
This lube feels silky smooth and will glide on the skin easily. And if you're wondering, is lube harmful? Durex lays your fears to rest, as they ensure that no harmful chemicals are in their product, keeping even those with allergies safe. According to reviews, this is clearly an affordable option that doesn't skimp on quality!
KY Jelly prides itself on being the top doctor-recommended brand for lubricants. It's based on a medical-grade formulation used for electrotherapy, cystoscopic work, digital examinations, and for vaginal lubrication to reduce vaginal dryness. This makes this suitable not only for sexual play with condoms and toys, but also for vaginal examinations.
Suppose you're one of those wondering, will lube give me an infection? Well, definitely not with this one. The formulation is sterile with no chance of infection once it's applied. It is also greaseless and water-soluble, getting rid of that icky feeling that some lubricants have. It is easier to clean and will not cause any skin irritations while in use.
You and your significant other should have the best experience when it comes to your special night together. The Monogatari lubricant gel brings about all the things you want in a lube while keeping it safe and enjoyable as well. It is made from a water-soluble ingredient and feels like the natural lubrication the body produces.
It is also easily reactivated; just add moisture, and the lubrication will be back with the same smoothness as the first application. This product is also safe for those with sensitive skin, as it causes no allergies and adverse reactions when paired with sex toys and contraceptives.
The non-toxic and odorless formulation also helps keep libido up safely, providing for a longer and more pleasurable experience for both parties. Best of all, this product is so versatile and can also be used as a shaving gel, anti-blister gel for your feet, menstrual cup assistant, massage gel, and anti-chafe solution.
This lube formulation is touted for its slippery feel in a water-soluble gel. It is irritant-free, providing you comfort as well as a slick feeling for you and your sexual partner. Even with the repetitive motions of sexual intercourse, your skin will be protected while delivering maximum pleasure.
With its apple flavor, this lube is mildly sweet and not overpowering. It provides a hint of taste that adds a playful element to your sexual experience. It is safe to ingest and doesn't leave a tacky residue, making your sexual endeavors smooth and hassle-free.
The use of lubrication can greatly enhance your activities in the bedroom. Everything is slicker, which leads to more enjoyment and longer-lasting sex. It can also add additional experiences and even add new flavors to your oral sex. Below are the ways to maximize the use of sex lubes, according to Health.com.
Sex is pleasurable due to the friction experienced by the sex organs as they make contact with each other. Lubrication helps by preventing the organs from drying up that can cause chafing. However, too much lube will prevent you from feeling anything due to how slippery it will turn out, so use lube in moderation.
Since lubes can help everything feel smooth, this will help prevent STIs and infections. It does this by preventing any microscopic tears in your skin where bacteria and viruses can enter. It can also help prevent pregnancy as less friction will help the condom retain its structural integrity, leading to less breakage.
We need to release our sexual tension. If our partners are away or if you are single and crave some sexual fun, you might have to resort to masturbating to achieve pleasure. Adding lube while you’re masturbating reduces the friction from your hand, making it much more pleasurable. It can also make it easier for you to use toys, giving you mind-blowing orgasms with no risk of chafing.
It is a buzzkill to pull out your lube bottle when in the heat of the moment. Before any action, it is best to put lubrication on all the concerned organs, such as the penis and the vagina. Spread it on the perimeter as well to facilitate a smoother transition and prevent any hiccups when trying to penetrate.
You can use lube during foreplay to increase the sensations. You can use warming lube to rub at the erogenous parts of the body, such as the nipples, thighs, and belly, for maximum arousal. For added pleasure, try putting lube on the penis before using a condom. Slippage may be a risk, but it will feel so much better if you can make it work.
Learn more from Dr. Rica as she answers some of the internet's most asked questions. Read on below to make sure you're informed and educated before getting intimate with your partner!
You have to look at the ingredients of the lubricants that you use. Chemical ingredients found in lubricants can be toxic to your vaginal tissue. These ingredients are:
Using lubricants that add sensation to the skin can work with some people and not with others, so this is subjective. Warming lubes contain mentholated ingredients and compounds derived from peppers to produce a warming sensation.
There are those who do not like the extra heat and find them irritating and not helpful when sustaining their arousal. Some even report prolonged stinging and redness that ruin the mood for sex. But for those who are exploring temperature play, try a small amount of warming lube first on your arm before putting it directly on your genitals.
If you want to know which lubes Dr. Rica recommends, you've come to the right place. Check them out below!
A great pair of underwear can make you feel beautiful and confident, which is a plus when you're having a special night with your partner. So it is important to have a good-looking one that conforms to your physique and accentuates your features. It also adds to the foreplay, which builds sexual tension leading to the act itself. Have a look below at some of the best underwear you can purchase online.
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
Beauty
Body care, Makeup, SkincareCameras
Camera supplies, Digital cameras, Drones and multirotorsHealth
Beauty supplements, Medical supplies, Feminine careHousehold goods
Air treatment, Bath and shower supplies, BlanketsPCs and laptops
Computer accessories, Computer components, Desktop pcsHome appliances and electronics
Air conditioners and coolers, Air treatment, Blenders, mixers, and food processorsFood and drinks
Alcoholic beverages, Baked goods and desserts, BakingKitchen supplies
Baking tools, Coffee and tea accessories, Food containersClothing
Brands and shops, Men's coats and jackets, Men's innerwearShoes
Men's shoes, Other shoes and footwear, Outdoor footwearAccessories
Bags, Accessories and jewelry, BeltsMom and baby
Baby books and toys, Baby food and snacks, Baby suppliesInterior and furniture
Beds, Carpets and rugs and mats, ChairsHobbies
Animes, Arts and crafts, Board gamesOutdoor
Camping beds and cots, Camping stoves, CoolersDIY and tools
Sports and fitness
Accessories, Badminton, BasketballPets
Cat supplies, Dog supplies, Fish and aquarium suppliesBooks, CDs, and DVDs
Books and magazines, CDs, Linguistics, dictionaries, and phrase booksGames
Console accessories, PC and console gamesCars and motorcycles
Car accessories, Car seats, Car suppliesGifts
Christmas-related gifts, Gifts for kids, Gifts for menHome improvement and tools
Door hardware and locks, Electrical, Gas stovesSmartphones and tablets
Smartphone accessories, Smartphones, StorageMobile data
Investment and asset management
Banking and finance
Credit cards, Debit cards, Services and appsInsurance
Car insurance, Life insurance, Medical insuranceAudio
Earphones, Gaming, HeadphonesSmartphone applications
Business apps, Dating apps, Education appsOthers
Others, Merch, Recreation