Lube, Demystified for Guys Who Have Been Too Shy to Try

Alright—we know what you’re thinking, shy guy: Sex is enjoyable enough without foreign objects and implements and kinks. You’re happy with your sex life; why risk making things weird by throwing something like lube into the mix?

Well, we’re here to tell you that your “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” logic doesn’t always apply, especially where sex is concerned. In fact, ask longtime couples and they’d likely attest to the fact that one of the keys to a long and happy relationship is occasionally stepping out of your comfort zone in the bedroom. That doesn't have to involve cat suits or leather straps (but hey, if either of those happens to be your thing, no one's judging, as long as there's mutual consent). It can be as simple as, well, trying lube.

Yes, lube—those plastic bottles placed next to condoms at the convenience store or pharmacy. If you’ve never paid them any more than a cursory glance, you’re about to have your mind blown. Read up, lube noob: Here are the answers to some of your burning questions:

First of all, what is lube?

Obviously, lube means lubricant, and lubricant is any liquid or gel applied on two surfaces to reduce friction. But, in the context of the bedroom, lube is a specially formulated liquid or gel substance that aids in making intercourse more pleasurable and less painful, when applied to your intimate areas.

Are there different types of lube?

Yes—so much lube, so little time. There are several kinds of specialized lubes, some of which promise to deliver a spectrum of sensations, if you’re feeling adventurous. However, most lubes fall into one of two categories: water-based and silicone-based.

A silicone-based lube has a thicker and glossier consistency than its water-based counterpart, which makes it more difficult for your skin to absorb. This means it lasts longer on your skin, so you won’t have to reapply multiple times during your, uh, marathon.

On the other hand, a water-based lube has a lightweight formula that’s suitable for all skin types, especially sensitive skin. Water-based lubes are also known for being non-sticky and easily washable, eliminating any evidence of risky business on your bed sheets or clothes.

A popular variant of a water-based lube is the Durex Play Feel pleasure gel—it has a light, smooth, washable formula that can be used with Durex condoms for a safe and enjoyable experience in the sack. For a pleasant, subtle scent, go for the Durex Play Feel gel, but if you’re up for something lip-smacking fruity, choose the Durex Play Strawberry gel.

Why should I use lube?

Well, the first and most obvious reason is that lube can be fun! Let's not mince words here: Used correctly, lube can augment sexual pleasure in various types of intercourse, and yes, science can attest to that. In a perfectly normal way, lube can make sex (with others or, uh, with self) more enjoyable, not just by enhancing the sensations, but by giving couples something new and interesting to try.

But beyond that, there are anatomical reasons to use lube too, and they're more common than you may think. For example, the female body’s natural lubrication fluctuates throughout life, because of certain health conditions, medication, stress, or old age. When dryness happens, lube can help.

When do I use lube during sex?

Whenever you please! Lube can add an extra sensation to any kind of penetration. This applies to penis-in-vagina penetration, but also to any other activity in which, uh, friction, may occur. If you’re trying out anal sex, for instance, you’ll need loads of lube. The anal cavity doesn’t produce its own lubrication, so any kind of butt action could be uncomfortable without lube.

How much lube should I use?

The trick to using lube is not getting too carried away with the amount. Turns out, being too lubed up can be counterproductive during sex. Too much friction during penetration can be painful, but too little of it can be less stimulating. Instead, start with a small amount on your fingertips, then add more as needed to increase pleasure.

Can I use lube with sex toys?

Yes, but there are a couple things you should keep in mind. Silicone-based lubes are ideal for toys made from hard materials like marble, plastic, aluminum, ceramic, and wood. However, if your sex toy is made from soft materials like silicone or jelly, it’s best to slather on a water-based lube. Silicone can counteract with soft materials and ultimately destroy your toys.

Lubes like Durex Play Feel and Durex Play Strawberry, however, are sex-toy compatible as they’re water-based pleasure gels. Apply an even layer of Durex Play all over the sex toy and insert—or err, play—as preferred.

What happens if I accidentally swallow lube?

Don’t panic! Most lubes are made with oral sex in mind, too. Most water-based lubes are oral sex-friendly—thus the flavor. Durex’s Play Feel and Play Strawberry pleasure gels are non-toxic and perfectly safe to consume, so if you accidentally swallow the lube, there’s no need to worry.

Spice it up in the bedroom with the Durex Play pleasure gel, available in Feel and Strawberry variants. Follow Durex Philippines on Facebook.

Learn more about lube and why you should choose Durex on Durex's official website.