What happens if you’re rearing to go and then suddenly realize that you have no lube at hand? Worry not, here are some household items you may already have that can work as lube alternatives and a few that you should steer clear of.
Items to use lube substitute
Aloe vera
Aloe vera is gentle on the skin and safe as long as there are no added ingredients to it. 100% natural is key here. It is water-based and so will not break down the latex on a condom making it a great lube alternative. Its only downside is it tends to dry out quite fast and has very little glide-ability. 5 Benefits Of Aloe Vera Gel
Plain yoghurt
Plain yoghurt, nothing flavoured, can be used as a lube alternative. Anecdotal evidence suggests that it does not dry out and has a suitable consistency. Yoghurt has also been used as a home remedy for treating vaginal thrush. 6 Reasons Why You Should Increase Your Consumption Of Yoghurt
Coconut oil
Coconut oil smells great, it’s safe, softens the skin and it can help ward off yeast infections to boot. It has a long-lasting glide which is one of the reasons why many organic and natural lubes have coconut oil. The only downside is it is highly likely to damage the condom.
11 Reasons You Should Be Using Coconut Oil
Olive oil
Olive oil is safe for vaginal and anal use during sex. The problem is the smell may be off-putting for many people. Oil is thick and is not absorbed by the skin which means it can clog the pores, trapping bacteria in the vagina and anus and increasing the likelihood of infection. Like other oil-based lube alternatives, olive oil can break down condoms. Health Benefits Of Including Olive Oil In Your Diet
What not to use as lube
Vaseline*
Petroleum jelly as a lube alternative is contested with some people saying no and others yes. It’s safe and effective on both vaginas and penises. The yes side says it’s safe and many people use it for both anal and vaginal use without suffering any negative effects.
The no side begins by pointing out that it is literally the offshoot of gasoline, it cannot be absorbed by the skin and in fact blocks the pores. When used in the vagina, it “hangs around” for a while, is difficult to wipe off and can feel greasy which makes it a no-no for many people. It’s also greasy instead of slippery. The lube should be slippery. The no side also cites research that found that people who use petroleum jelly as lube are 2.2 times more likely to develop bacterial vaginosis.
Baby oil
Mineral oil like baby oil should not be used as lube. Baby oil as lube carries the risk of poisoning, infection and damage to condoms. One study that looked at lubricant usage among men found a link between baby oil and higher rectal infection rates.
Shaving cream
Shaving cream is full of harmful chemicals and additives are almost guaranteed to cause irritation and redness. The last thing you want is inflamed genitals so avoid this as a lube alternative.
Lotion and soap
Some lotions and soaps have chemicals like perfumes and preservatives which can irritate the genitals and lead to infections. This makes them unsuitable as lube alternatives.
Butter
Butter is a dairy product that requires refrigeration. If you use it internally and are not able to clean it off completely, it may begin to spoil, become rancid and may even cause an infection due to bacterial growth.
Spit
Saliva carries with it a risk of transmitting or receiving a sexually transmitted infection. One study which looked at intercourse between males suggests that those who use saliva as a lubricant could spread gonorrhoea.
Check out
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