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This article was first published for PinkLifestyle.com here.
We have been asked many times but the types of lubricants we provide specifically silicon-based lubricants and decided to provide you the low-down on them (can’t help the pun!).
What are Silicone-based Lubricants?
Silicone-based lubes are usually thicker, silkier, and last longer, while water-based lubricants, as the name suggests, are mostly composed of water or H20, so they wash away easily and don’t leave residue behind
Silicone-based lubes are slippery, long lasting, and is ideal for a longer play session since silicone rides on top of the skin, rather than getting absorbed. This means you will require less lube to be applied, and also less need for frequent reapplication – which can interrupt the session.
Cautionary Note:
Silicone-based lubricants should not be used with silicone-based sex toys, as they can break down the rubber over time. They can however be used with sex toys made from other materials, like hard plastic, glass, and steel.
Pros
- Stay slick for a very long time (does not contain water).
- Compatible with latex condoms and reduces the chance that the condom breaking due to friction.
- Silicone lubricants without additives do not cause topical body reactions, irritations, allergic reactions. For this reason, it is a good choice for people with sensitive skin.
- Don’t break down in the water – Can be used for shower sex, masturbation in the shower or for any kind of underwater fun.
- Can be used for full body massage, as a skin moisturizer, and even for shaving.
Cons
- Not water-soluble so it difficult to wash off, especially sheets.
- More expensive than water-based lubes (Since it goes farther than water-based lubes the price evens out in the end).
- Have a “coating” effect on the skin which some people don’t like.
- Tend to have bad taste.
- Not compatible with silicone rubber sex toys or “cyber skin” sex toys. You should never use silicone lubricants with these toy materials.
What We Recommend:
- Swiss Navy Silicone Based Lubricant – Latex and condom compatible, stain free premium lubricant. Silicone lubricant for sensitive skin.
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Pjur – ORIGINAL Silicone-Based Lube – This formula is great as a personal lubricant and a massage gel. The silicone molecules remain on the surface of the skin and are not absorbed. As a result, pjur ORIGINAL delivers extremely long-lasting lubrication, making it ideal for sex and long-lasting massages.
- System Jo – Premium Silicone Lubricant – JO® PREMIUM a silicone-based personal lubricant designed to supplement the body’s natural lubrication and enhance the pleasures of intimacy. The silky smooth, buttery glide is water-resistant and long lasting, making it an ideal partner for adventurous play. JO® PREMIUM is free of preservatives and formulated using only the highest quality silicones. A little goes a long way!
References:
American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. FAQ020: When Sex Is Painful.September 2017.
Dawson, A., PhD. (2021, June 16). Silicone-Based Lubricants. TheToy.Org. https://thetoy.org/silicone-based-lubricants/
Fernandez, C. (2020, September 16). 18 of the Best Personal Lubricants to Enjoy During Sex—or All by Yourself. Oprah Daily. https://www.oprahdaily.com/life/relationships-love/g28564912/best-personal-lubricants/
Team, P. (2020, July 7). Silicone-based or Water-based Lube: The Decision, Part 1. Pulse®. https://lovemypulse.com/blogs/pulse-report/silicone-based-or-water-based-lube-the-decision-part-1
Telfer, N. (2021, June 23). How to pick a lubricant. Hello Clue. https://helloclue.com/articles/sex/how-to-pick-a-lubricant
About Dr. Martha Tara Lee
Surrounded by friends who were sexually inhibited and struck by dire lack of positive conversations around sex and sexuality in Singapore, Dr. Martha Tara Lee set out to make a positive difference in embarking on her doctorate in human sexuality before launching Eros Coaching in 2009. Today, she remains dedicated to working with individuals and couples who wish to lead self-actualised and pleasure-filled lives.
She also holds certificates in counselling, coaching and sex therapy, and her fourth degree – a Masters in Counselling in May 2018. In practice for more than 12 years, she is the only certified sexuality educator and certified sexuality educator supervisor by the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT) in Singapore. She is also a Red Tent Women’s Circles Facilitator from Star of Ishtar.
Often cited in the media, Dr. Lee is the appointed Resident Sexologist for PinkLifestyle.com; as well appointed sex expert for Men’s Health Singapore, and Men’s Health Malaysia. She was recognised as one of ‘Top 50 Inspiring Women Under 40′ by Her World in July 2010, and one of ‘Top 100 Inspiring Women’ by CozyCot in March 2011. She has published four books: Love, Sex and Everything In-Between, Orgasmic Yoga, From Princess to Queen and {Un}Inhibited.
Martha works with individuals and couples in private coaching sessions, and conducts her own workshops. She takes prides in making sure all her workshops are also fun, educational, and sex-positive. This comes easily to her because even though she is extremely dedicated and serious about her work, she fundamentally believes that sex is meant to be fun, wonderful, amazing and sacred. As such, this serious light-heartedness has shone through again and again. For her full profile, click here. Email her here.
