Not-So-Dry-January, Let's Talk Personal Lube!

A good lube makes all sex play better! It reduces friction, increases comfort, and lets you focus on sensation instead of irritation and discomfort. The problem is that not all lubes work the same way, and if you've used the 'wrong one' it can easily turn you off lubes by turning a fun moment into a sticky, uncomfortable mess. So we're here to give you a few tips on what different lubes do, and how to pick the right one for you.

When you choose a lubricant you want to think about ingredients, thickness, and yes, smell and taste. Performance depends on what you’re doing- so different activities often need different lubes. And of course, all bodies are unique too. So how to choose?? Well, read on!

Water based lube

Water based lubricant is incredibly versatile. You can use it with condoms. You can use it with toys made from any material, including silicone. And, you can find it in a wide range of thicknesses, from barely-there-thin and silky to seriously cushiony.

But there are tradeoffs. Water based lube does not love water play, showers and baths wash it away quickly. Your body also absorbs it faster, which means you will need reapply.

Quick note- reapplying lube is not a bad thing, it doesn't ruin the mood or even mean the lube is bad. It simply means you're still having a good time and want to keep going. Just squeeze a bit more and keep on keeping on!

One of our best sellers is Sliquid Sassy. It has a thick, gel-like consistency that provides cushion and reduces friction. Sliquid focuses on safe, thoughtful ingredients, which makes it a solid choice for sensitive bodies (and by default- better for all bodies!) You can use it for vaginal play, booty play, and with toys of all materials.

Silicone based lube

Silicone lubricant shines when you want glide that does not quit. It lasts and lasts, and it stays slippery when in contact with water. This makes it perfect for shower sex, hot tubs, or any water play fantasy you want to explore.

Silicone lube sits on top of your tissue instead of absorbing into it. That means two things. It lasts longer, and it barely interferes with your pH, if at all. On one hand, many professionals prefer to recommend a lube with ingredients that have lasting benefits (see below for Sutil and Hyaluronic acid). Like a two-for-one deal. These lubes are great, but we don't think that a single lube has to do all the things. So, when it comes to what we need lube for, the lasting slipperiness of silicone lube is definitely worth a try!

Silicone lubes come in different textures. Uberlube has a thinner viscosity that feels a bit more barely-there. It also works beautifully for external back and body massage that transitions to internal or penetrative sex. Since most scented massage oils aren't safe for internal use, opt for silicone for this type of play. 

Pjur Med on the other hand goes on thicker and slicker, which makes it great for booty play or rougher sex where you want serious friction reduction that keeps going.

One important rule. Silicone lube and silicone toys usually do not mix. There are exceptions, but ask us before experimenting unless you want to risk ruining a your $100 vibrator.

Hybrid lube: best of both worlds (cue Miley Cyrus)

Hybrid lubricants combine the ingredients and characteristics of water and silicone. You get more staying power than a water based lube, with better toy compatibility than a full silicone.

When choosing a hybrid lube that will be compatible with your toys, look at the ingredient label. You'll want to make sure water is listed before silicone. 

We love Sliquid Silk Hybrid, and so do our customers! So much so, that we have trouble keeping it in stock sometimes. It has a creamy consistency that glides beautifully- exactly what you want a lube to do. The silicone adds slip, so it lasts longer. But since it's majority water based, it's compatible with all the silicone toys we carry here at Lotus Blooms!

Specialty Lubes

Beyond having different base ingredients, many lubes do 'something' extra. Want something specific for booty play? Something that is flavored for a sweet oral treat? Or are you looking for a little extra tingle? While most lubes can be used for all sorts of play, many also have specific characteristics that address a certain need.

For example, most folks who are looking for lubes would also benefit from added vaginal hydration. Our best selling lube of 2025 was Sutil Rich, a thick, cushiony formula made with hyaluronic acid. It works both during sex and after. During, it provides a satiny, silky smooth glide with a gorgeous cushiony bounce. After, the hyaluronic acid helps hydrate tissues, sticking around to work hard even once play is over.

We often recommend it to people dealing with menopause or medication side effects. And let’s be honest, even if you don't fall into those categories, everyone benefits from more vaginal hydration.

Your body chemistry, your perfect lube

Bodies chemistries differ, bodies change, different play needs different things. You may also want different lubes at different times of the month or for different types of play. Finding your Goldilocks lube takes some trial and error. (Don't worry, we have variety packs so you can experiment with a small test before buying a whole bottle)

While everyone is different, there's some advice we recommend to every one- glycerin free and paraben free formulas to reduce the risk of yeast infections and endocrine disruption. And it's important to note that many mainstream lubes contain harsh additives that cause burning or irritation. If a lube has ever burned you, let us know so that we can help you figure out which ingredients to avoid.

At Lotus Blooms, we have testers so that you can feel the different consistencies of every lube on your fingers, before buying. Plus, our educated staff will talk you through texture, taste, and best use case for what you are looking for. Stop by and let us help you find your perfect pair, your personalized, Goldilocks lube, if you will.

Dry January can be a great reset. Not-So-Dry-January can help make everything run a little smoother.  See you soon for a lube consult!