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Having
all your questions answered before you buy is
critical to finding the perfect lube for you.
Check out OnlyCondom.com's Lube FAQ's: our very
own collection of the most common questions
about lubes.
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| Why
Lube? |
It's been reported that "once you go lube you'll never go back". Whether or not you agree is up to you but using a sexual lubricant has several key advantages over not using one. First off, sexual lubricants enhance sexual pleasure by reducing friction and effort. Sexual lubricants have also been found to reduce the failure rate of condoms and decrease the transmission rate of STD's. The natural lubrication provided by the body can sometimes be lacking, especially when affected by surgery, stress, pregnancy, or breast feeding. A supplemental lubricant can replace and enhance the insufficient natural lubes. Using lubes can also be tremendously fun and exciting, especially with the latest flavored and heat sensitive lubes available today.?
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| What
is Water-Based Lube? |
Water based lubes are exactly that: lubes that are based on a formula that includes 90% de-ionized water. Water based lubes are safe for all condoms, non-toxic, and can be re-activated with regular water should they start to dry up. Water based lubes can be given flavors, colors, and scents. Water based lubes are the most similar to the natural lubes of the human body.?
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| What
is Oil-Based Lube? |
Oil based lubes are lubricants with petroleum bases, such, similar to Vaseline. Although long lasting, these lubes are not safe to use with condoms. The ingredients in these lubes will weaken latex and cause condoms to break down. These lubes can be used with Polyurethane condoms, however.. Some people report that oil-based lubes are hard to clean up afterward so be careful with your amounts.
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| What
is Silicon-Based Lube? |
Silicone based lubes are similar to water-based lubes in that they are safe to use with all condoms. Silicon based lubes, because they do not contain water, do not dry up the same way water based lubes do. A few drops of silicon based lube will usually last all night, even under water.?
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| How
much Lube should I use? |
For most people a few drops on the inside of the condom as well as a few drops on the outside is plenty of lube for smooth intercourse, especially when supplemented by the bodies own natural lubrication. However, some women produce more lubricant than others and additional lube may be needed. If your lube should dry up a few dribbles of water will usually bring it back to life. Some lubes, like silicon and oil based lubes do not dry up as quickly as water based lubes.?
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| Do
I need Spermicide? |
Spermicidal lubricants are a great way to increase protection from pregnancy as well as add peace of mind. When used with a condom spermicidal lubes are proven to reduce the pregnancy rate as well as decrease the transmission rates of certain STD's. It's important to remember that a spermicdal lube is not a birth control method unto itself and must be used with a condoms to be effective. The most popular spermicides are Nonoxynol-9 and Benzalkonium Chloride. In laboratory tests Nonoxynol-9 has been shown to kill HIV in test tubes, but actual human tests have been inconclusive. Furthermore, some people complain of irritation when using a spermicide. If you should experience any side effect discontinue use and consult a doctor.
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| How
do I clean up after using a lubricant? |
For most lubes clean up is about the same as regular sex without using a lubricant. Any extra moisture present after intercourse can be wiped away with a towel, tissue, or soap and water. Cleaning up after using an oil or silicon based lube is a little trickier but most will come clean using soap and water.( This also gives you an excuse for post-sex showers!) Also, some lubes come with a special lube remover that is specially designed for removing lubes.?
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| What is lube made of? Can I make my own? |
Water based lubes are composed of 90% de-ionized water. They also contain glycerin and an anti-bacterial agent. Some water-based lubes also contain spermicides to kill sperm. These lubes are designed to mimic the bodies own natural lubricants.
Oil based lubes are made up of various chemical and petroleum products. NEVER use these lubes with latex.
Silicon based lubes are the chemically superior lube in terms if longevity and ingredients. Because silicon does not readily evaporate these lubes last longer than water-based lubes, yet are just as safe. Silicon is also non water-soluble and will therefore last forever, even under water.?
OnlyCondoms.com does not recommend trying to make your own lubes. It's better to spend the money on the FDA approved stuff.?
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| How often do I need to re-apply lubes? |
Ideally you shouldn't ever have to re-apply. Water based lubes can be re-activated with water and oil/silicon based lubes aren't supposed to dry up. However, sex is a personal thing and different folks like different strokes, literally. In the end whatever is best for you is the perfect amount.?
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| Are lubes edible? |
For the most part yes. Water and silicon based lubes are 100% non-toxic. Most flavored lubes are water-based. It's a good idea to read the bottle before putting any lube i your mouth. Oil based lubes should not be consumed orally as they contain petroleum products and they probably taste horrible anyways.?
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| What's the deal with flavored lubes? |
The whole idea behind flavored lubes is to increase sexual excitement as well as introduce taste and scent into the sexual experience. Most flavored lubes are water-based, non staining, and non-toxic. All flavored lubes featured on QuikCondoms.com are FDA approved as well. Some women have reported that sugar in flavored lubes increase the chances of yeast infection. Manufacturers have fixed this problem and now most flavored lubes are sugar free. Be sure to check the bottle.?
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