Lube

It’s no secret that, for lots of people, lube is a game-changer when it comes to sex. So you’d probably assume that lubes (‘normal’ and natural lubes) are pretty safe (even good) for your vagina given their myriad other benefits — and most are. But you need to proceed with caution and familiarise yourself with a few things before you use them. Here’s what you need to know about natural lubes.

READ MORE: 7 Common Things That Make Your Vagina Smell Strange

Who Should Use Natural Lubes?

“The traditional and most commonly used lubes are water- or silicone-based which won’t disrupt the vagina’s delicate pH balance, which can cause an infection,” says Dr Sherry A. Ross, a gynaecologist and author of She-ology and She-ology. The She-quel. Let’s Continue the Conversation.

But — and this is a big but — if the ingredients used to create the scents, warming capabilities, and flavours of some lubes are doing you more harm than good by irritating your sensitive skin down there, you might find you’re better off with a natural alternative.

READ MORE: 3 Women Tried Different Vagina Pumps — This Is What They Thought

What Does Natural Actually Mean?

Now this, of course, opens up a whole new world of uncertainties. With so many lubes on the market claiming to be “natural” and “organic,” it’s hard to tell what those labels actually mean for you and your vag.

Here are the facts: It all comes down to ingredients. The fewer ingredients, the more natural the lube.

“In general, both natural and organic lubricants do not contain those extra non-pure additives including synthetic chemicals, dyes, preservatives, artificial fragrances and other toxins,” says Ross.

READ MORE: 10 Tips To Keep Your Vagina Happy And Healthy

What’s The Difference Between Natural And Organic Lube?

The notable difference between “natural” and “organic” lubes really comes down to how the ingredients in each are sourced and whether they’ve been certified.

Organic lubes are made from certified ingredients while natural ones are not. To be truly organic, a lube’s ingredients won’t have interacted with chemicals such as pesticides, fertilisers, and GMOs.

READ MORE: Pop Quiz: Do You Actually Know What’s Going On With Your Vagina?

Can Natural Lubes Give You An Infection?

That said, some natural and organic lubes can still be tricky for your vagina and include ingredients that you’ll want to avoid. Take, petroleum jelly or mineral oil, for example: They can up your risk of developing bacterial vaginosis or other vaginal infections, says Dr Alyssa Dweck, a gynaecologist.

9 Natural Lubes You Should Try

To make sure you’re adding only the safest options to your cart, you’ll want to shop from this list of the best natural lubricants. Many of these feature coconut oil, aloe vera, or vitamin E for a silky, slippery texture and none of the potentially icky stuff (plastics, artificial fragrances, and oh, those pesky parabens).

READ MORE: Vaginal Infections 101 — What You Need To Know About That Itch

Pro tip: Always test a bit of lube on your wrist to see if it causes any irritation. If it doesn’t, give it a try on your vulva to double-check before using it during sex.

OSKE Aqua Natural Lubricant Tube

OSKE is vegan and free of petroleum, silicone, parabens, fragrance and glycerin. It’s also made from mostly organic materials and is packing aloe vera, water, and xanthan gum extract.

Liquid Gold Rooibos Infused Water-Based Lubricant

If your go-to synthetic lube gets clumpy after prolonged use or thickens the more you apply, make the switch to Liquid Gold. This water-based lube feels smooth, silky and slippery to the touch.

Pjur Woman Vegan Water-Based Lubricant

This premium lube is made without parabens, paraffin and glycerin. This PH-optimised lube is also free of fragrances, colourings and gluten so gluten-free folks can enjoy this one.

READ MORE: Vaginal Probiotics Are Having A Moment – But How Do They Work?

Intimate Earth MELT Organic Warming Lubricant

This is a great lube if you have sensitive skin – the gentle formula is silky smooth and a little goes a long way. Plus, it’s condom-friendly and has organic extracts.

Anara Aloe Gel Personal Lubricant

A multitasker you’ll repurchase over and over, this aloe vera-based natural lube also relieves itchy and dry skin and even UTIs. Plus, it’s great for menopause.

Oliō Natural Intimate Lubricant

This CBD-infused lube is water-based and provides a relaxing and soothing sensation to the skin. Plus, it might improve blood flow, for heightened pleasure.

Green Peach Essensually Wild Water-Based Lube

This lube has 100mg of fast-acting full-spectrum CBD. It works to relieve tension and keep you present as you indulge.

Faithful to Nature Water-Based Lubricant

Made with organic aloe and prebiotics, is 96% organic, won’t dry up or get sticky and comes inn eco-friendly packaging.

SuperNaturals Personal Lubricant

Made with cape botanicals, this natural lube has a silky, smooth texture and is cruelty-free. What’s not to love about it?

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