You may be mentally ready for action, but if your body isn’t on the same page, the best lubricant (aka lube) can help ease any friction and combat discomfort during sex and masturbation.
Vaginal dryness can affect us at any time and for a variety of reasons, with our hormones playing a big role. Due to fluctuations in oestrogen levels, it’s a common – and often uncomfortable – symptom of perimenopause and menopause.
But lube isn't just for those looking to combat dryness or discomfort. It can be used by anyone and everyone to enhance sexual pleasure – in solo play with one of our testing panel's best vibrators, or with a partner. It also comes in different flavours and some are designed to deliver cooling and warming sensations on application.
That’s why it’s a good idea to have a bottle tucked away in your bedside drawer to help things run a little more, well, smoothly. These are our favourites at a glance:
Best lubes
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Good lube and massage oil
Ann Summers My Viv Oil Based Lube
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Good for nourishing ingredients
YES Oil-Based Organic Lubricant
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What are the different types of lube?
We spoke to women’s health specialist and GP Dr Chandni Rajani to get the low down on how lube can help down below. First, she talked us through the main types.
Water: Water-based lubricants are generally safe for the skin, hypoallergenic, and unlikely to irritate. They absorb quickly, leaving little residue and are compatible with condoms and sex toys.
Silicone: Silicone-based lubricants are generally safe for skin contact, hypoallergenic, and provide long-lasting lubrication. However, they can degrade silicone sex toys and may leave a residue on the skin.
Oil: Oil-based lubricants, such as those made from natural oils like coconut or mineral oil, can moisturise and provide long-lasting lubrication. However, they are not recommended for use with latex condoms as they can weaken them, increasing the risk of breakage. Additionally, oil-based lubes may stain fabrics and be more challenging to clean up than water-based or silicone-based options.
You'll find more information on the benefits of lube, particularly during menopause, below, but first let's slide into our top picks.
Sexual wellness brand Roam developed this lube with pleasure front of mind. It recognised that the body’s natural lubrication can change for a variety of reasons, from your menstrual cycle to the food and drink you consume. That's why it developed the Front lube, which you can keep on standby in your bedside drawer for whenever you need it.
It’s enriched with nourishing ingredients including agave, aloe vera and jojoba, and doesn’t leave any sticky or greasy residue. The subtle, deep-red packaging also ensures a sensual experience from the get-go.
Key specifications
| Size | 50ml |
|---|---|
| Type | Water-based |
From skincare to fashion, cherry-hued products and scents are all the rage at the moment. Durex has jumped on the bandwagon with this water-based lubricant, which boasts a sweet cherry fragrance that smells good enough to eat. It’s a good thing, then, that it’s edible.
Though scented, it’s also designed with intimate areas in mind, so it won’t affect your pH levels.
Key specifications
| Size | 100ml |
|---|---|
| Type | Water-based |
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Brand founder and physiotherapist Claire Osterstock specialises in managing pelvic pain in women, and wanted to develop a product that didn’t just ease discomfort during intercourse but can also be as a vaginal moisturiser, a massage oil and a body moisturiser.
An all-natural product, it only contains two ingredients: Extra virgin olive oil thanks to its high antioxidant content and antibacterial and antifungal properties; and beeswax, which acts as a natural thickener ad boasts anti-inflammatory properties.
Key specifications
| Size | 55ml |
|---|---|
| Type | Oil-based |
This thick, long-lasting lube from Ann Summers is formulated with natural ingredients, including hydrating hemp seed extract and jojoba oil.
It can also be used as a massage oil, but it’s important to note that due to the oil make-up, it’s not compatible with condoms. There is a water-based version if this suits you better. Want the best of both, plus an orgasm gel on top? Try this mini discovery set.
You’ll be sharing the love too by purchasing this lube, as 10% of all profits made from sales in the My Viv collection will be donated to Breast Cancer Care.
Key specifications
| Size | 100ml |
|---|---|
| Type | Oil-based |
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This lube is free from any harsh ingredients such as fragrances, parabens or alcohol, all of which can affect the natural pH of your vagina. It’s also infused with hemp oil, which the brand claims has a relaxing and calming effect where it counts.
It’s water-based and doesn’t leave behind any residue, so you don’t have to worry about any unwanted stains on the sheets. Put some Oomf into it.
Key specifications
| Size | 50ml |
|---|---|
| Type | Water-based |
This hormone-free moisturiser from Replens promises to replenish vaginal moisture for up to three days. It works to supplement the body’s natural lubrication to alleviate any irritation or discomfort caused by dryness.
You can choose from a set of 6 single-use prefilled applicators, or a 35g tube, which allows for up to 12 applications. Either way, you simply insert and squeeze for immediate relief.
Its main purpose is to tackle dryness, whether that’s inside or outside the bedroom. The brand recommends a fresh application a couple of hours before intercourse, and regular use can help with longer-lasting moisture so you can enjoy those more spontaneous moments.
Key specifications
| Size | 35ml tube or 6 applicators |
|---|---|
| Type | Water-based |
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Designed by women for women, the brand behind this oil and plant-based lubricant takes female health seriously. The lube is enriched with nourishing ingredients such as organic shea butter and almond oil for a smooth glide, as well as vitamin E to act as a natural preservative, all without compromising the health of your vagina.
Not only is this lubricant designed for intimacy, but it can also be used as an emollient for those affected by dryness during cycling, swimming or even sitting down for periods. It creates a protective layer that eases friction and soreness. Yes please.
Key specifications
| Size | 140ml |
|---|---|
| Type | Oil-based |
Dr. Hedieh and Hasti Asadi are sisters and the co-founders of DeoDoc. Frustrated by the lack of lubricants on the market that actually addressed women's needs, they worked with a team of gynaecologists and female doctors to create a product that would genuinely improve women's intimate health.
This silicone-based, hypoallergenic and fragrance-free formula aims to enhance pleasure, without compromising stable pH levels.
Key specifications
| Size | 30ml |
|---|---|
| Type | Silicone-based |
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Organic, fragrance-free and hypoallergenic, this water-based lube from Maude will have you feeling good from the inside out. It won’t compromise the health down below either, thanks to the pH-balanced formula, which supports your vagina’s natural levels.
It’s also aloe vera based, which makes it naturally hydrating and cooling – just think of it as a refreshing drink for your downstairs. It has a gel-like consistency at first, before breaking down into a silky finish, minus any grease or stickiness.
Key specifications
| Size | 140ml |
|---|---|
| Type | Aloe vera and water-based |
Durex has gone the extra mile to ensure you won’t experience any irritation with its extra sensitive lube. Developed with 100% natural ingredients, it eases vaginal dryness while being gentle on the skin. Not only is it kind to skin, but at under £10, it’s gentle on your bank balance too.
Key specifications
| Size | 100ml |
|---|---|
| Type | Water-based |
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Good for larger bottle
Lovehoney Enjoy Water-based Lubricant
As one of the biggest names in the industry, Lovehoney knows a thing or two about sex-ccessories, and its bestselling water-based lube is a power player in the market. This is also one instance where bigger is definitely better. You get 250ml in a bottle, which means there’s no fear of running dry in a hurry.
The water-based formula is a great option for adding extra glide, and the squeezy bottle means easy application.
Key specifications
| Size | 250ml |
|---|---|
| Type | Water-based |
No, this isn’t a fancy bottle of perfume or whisky. It is in fact Lelo’s newly developed water-based lubricant, which helps create a silky-not-sticky experience, whether you're using it with a partner or solo. From the design to the formula, this product oozes sleekness.
It doesn’t contain any parabens or glycerine, which can cause irritation, making it a great option for those with sensitive skin. You can also use it with a condom.
Key specifications
| Size | 100ml |
|---|---|
| Type | Water-based |
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This massage-lube bundle is a great option for couples. Each water-soluble gel provides instant and gentle hydration, while the different hero ingredients, from aloe vera to ylang ylang, help to arouse and awaken the senses. Start off with an intimate massage and see where the mood takes you.
Key specifications
| Size | 200ml per bottle |
|---|---|
| Type | Water-based with aloe vera extract |
How to use lube
Lubricant can be applied to the penis, vibrator, vulva, vagina, or anywhere else you think needs it. “Lube enhances comfort and pleasure during sex,” Dr Rajani says.
“Choose the right type (more on that below) and apply a small amount to the desired area. Reapply as needed during intercourse. Experiment to find what works best for you and your partner.”
We also suggest warming it up in your hands first.
The benefits of using lube during menopause
Vaginal dryness during menopause occurs because of a reduction in levels of oestrogen. This causes the lining of the vagina to become drier and thinner, which can result in itching, burning and pain during sex.
This can affect you both in and out of the bedroom, which is why it’s a good idea to invest in a good lubricant. Whether you use it to enhance pleasure or as an emollient (a moisturising treatment) for every day, it can help to soothe and ease discomfort.
What is the best lube for menopause?
According to My Menopause Centre, any of the three bases are fine to use during menopause, as it’s about what works best for you. However, experts recommend using one that doesn’t have any added extras such as a tingling element or cooling or warming effect, as this can risk causing irritation, which is already a concern during menopause.
“Changes in hormone levels can disrupt the balance of vaginal bacteria, heightening the risk of vaginal infections,” Dr Rajani warns.
What are the benefits of using lube?
Combatting dryness
Using lube reduces friction, lowering the risk of injury or irritation during sex or masturbation. Not only does it help for easier insertion but it keeps things more comfortable and enjoyable throughout.
Enhancing pleasure
Lubes have great practical benefits, but they are also a great option for enhancing pleasure. As well as minimising friction, they can heighten sensation, thus replacing any unwanted pain with pleasure.
Helping condom application
Applying a layer of lube before putting on a condom can help reduce any unwanted discomfort. “[It also] decreases the likelihood of breakage or slipping off, thereby enhancing protection against STIs,” says Dr Rajani.
Always make sure to use a water-based or silicone lubricant with latex condoms. Do not use an oil-based formula as this will weaken the latex.
Madeleine Evans
Lifestyle Writer
Madeleine is our Lifestyle Writer, specialising in expert-tested reviews and round-ups on the latest beauty Beauty and products. From skincare to protein powders, Maddie is committed to providing honest and helpful reviews to help guide readers to the best product for them. Maddie has a BA in English Literature and Language, which stemmed from her lifelong interest in reading and writing. She started her post graduate life at Hearst UK within a marketing capacity, which quickly turned into a desire to fulfil a writing career.
When she is not writing about the latest expert reviewed products, you can find her rifling through vintage shops or car boots, reading a print magazine, or capturing portraits on her film camera.
