Never use mineral oils or petroleum products like Vaseline or baby oil. Men's Health participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. The only thing (and we can't stress this enough) is that it needs to be 100% pure aloe vera. Thanks to its protein content and high pH value, yogurt also helps in treating yeast infections. While some alternatives are fine to use, there are others that people should avoid. DO NOT USE SOAP! An older study also highlights saliva in oral sex might cause vaginal yeast infections. Coconut Oil is one of the most popular natural alternatives to lubricants. They can … For condoms only real lube meant for condoms works so they don't break. Anecdotal evidence suggests it does not dry out, has a suitable consistency, and is relatively cheap. Read on to discover why it may not be safe, and alternative lubricants to use during sex. Diagnostic ultrasound utilizes high-frequency sound waves to produce images of body internal organs and soft tissues. One study, which looked at intercourse between males, suggests that those who use saliva as a lubricant could spread gonorrhea. In addition, Vaseline states that it is for external use only, so it is likely not suitable for penetrative or oral intercourse. There are a few common household products that can substitute as lube, including Vaseline, olive oil, coconut oil, and other things you might have lying around. There are some liquids that people believe will make a good lubricant but can actually lead to infection and irritation. Stir the pot continuously, or your lube will get lumpy. Keep in mind However, this could trigger an infection, while there is a risk that someone could pass or receive a sexually transmitted infection. Another potential alternative lube is olive oil, as it spreads quickly and easily. Some lotions and soaps contain perfumes and preservatives, such as parabens. Although it is best to purchase and use water-based or silicone-based lubricants, there are alternatives people can consider if they are unable to do this. Where people are unable to obtain personal lubricants, they could use one of the following alternatives: Aloe vera is water-based and can improve skin hydration while also reducing irritation. “Peanut oil tends to be less viscous oil than some of the other vegetable oils out there,” says Ingber. I’m taking a guess that you mean personal lubricant : Water won’t work well by itself - absorbed/dispersed too quickly. There are a few common household products that can substitute as lube, including Vaseline, olive oil, coconut oil, and other things you might have lying around. Virgin coconut oil contains anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties. As saliva plays a part in oral sex, some people may assume it would be a good lube alternative. Additionally, as it is an oil, it’s not recommended for use with condoms. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. Many people choose natural lubes to avoid exposure to unnecessary ingredients in commercial…. You could use spit. You can also use plain yogurt for the same. Can you use baby oil as a lubricant during sex? As butter is a dairy product and requires refrigeration, there are risks if people use it for sexual activity. You can’t just grab any oil from your kitchen to use as lube. Olive oil has many health benefits, but it is not advisable to use it as a sexual lubricant. Another potential alternative lube is olive oil, as it spreads quickly and easily. Click here to read more about using olive oil as a lubricant. For intercourse spit wont do it but you can use oil unless you wear a condom. (Very little, but still more than pouring out oil directly from the bottle.) Learn more here. Visit us at https://wildflowersex.com for more great resources, tips, and all the tools and toys you'll ever need! Although Vaseline has a soft, smooth texture, it is not advisable to use it as a sexual lubricant. These include aloe vera, yogurt, olive oil, and virgin coconut oil. Stir for about 15 minutes, and then let it cool naturally. Just don’t do it. Plain yogurt could be a useful alternative lubricant. Can I use household products as lube? Olive oil can stain. At this point, you know the drill with oil-based lube alternatives: They can break down condoms, and some women may experience irritation. There are several lubricants specifically made for intercourse, masturbation, and other types of sexual activity. Store at room temperature. We may earn a commission through links on our site. For example, if someone inserts butter into a vagina or anus and does not clean the area properly afterward, the butter may start to spoil and become rancid. Here are some other lubes we recommend. Last medically reviewed on August 13, 2020, Selecting a natural lube alternative can be challenging. If household products are a little too D.I.Y. We'll also tell you which lube alternatives work best for which sexy activities. If you use a condom you can only use proper lube for that purpose or the condom will break. If someone uses olive oil for lube, it is important to wash it off the skin afterward thoroughly. This Guy Did a Year-Long Pushup Challenge, Dr. Sanjay Gupta's Best Tips for Brain Health, How Taking Up Running Kept Me Sane in 2020, Tanner Buchanan Talks 'Cobra Kai' Season 3, This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. However, unlike the other options in this list, egg whites take a bit more effort to prepare. These do not damage condoms or sex toys, and are typically the safest option for intercourse and masturbation. 2. 1. This is because people believe it has a similar consistency to cervical mucus. People should avoid the use of petroleum jelly, lotion, butter, or spit as lubricant alternatives, due to the increased risk of infection or irritation. Second, oil is thicker and doesn't easily dissolve in skin. However, if someone uses an aloe vera product as a lubricant, it is best to check it does not contain other ingredients, such as alcohol. Sometimes, people may not be able to get hold of personal lubricants. Zachary Zane is a Brooklyn-based writer, speaker, and activist whose work focuses on lifestyle, sexuality, culture, and entertainment. That means it can clog pores, trapping bacteria in the vagina and anus and increasing the likelihood of infection. This alternative isn't great if you need lube in a jiffy, as it requires a little bit of work. Is olive oil safe to use as a sexual lubricant? However, these types of lubes can damage sex toys and latex condoms. “Petroleum jelly (which is vaseline) is an emollient, which means it softens skin and helps it heal.". Natural oils - such as grapeseed, olive oil or coconut oil are safe. (You don't want to put it in the fridge to cool or again, you'll end up with some nasty, lumpy lube.) You could put your clothes back on and run to the nearest drug store while your naked partner twiddles their thumbs waiting for you...or you could check your cabinets for a worthwhile lube alternative. However, like olive oil, people should not use virgin coconut oil if they use latex barrier methods of contraception. The vagina usually produces natural lubrication to stay healthy and facilitate sexual activity. What can i use as lube? 6 Non-Lube Items You Have At Home That You Can Use As Lube. When you need lube, you need it now. Substitutes You Should NEVER Use 1. This article looks at the types of personal lubricants, possible safe lube alternatives, and which varieties a person should avoid. hi i was wondering what i can use for anal lube during masturbation, i cant really buy actual lube cuz my parents are always with me when i go to the store and This topic is answered by a medical expert. synthetic condoms, like those made from polyurethane. If not, here's what to know about, “People often forget that vaseline is very safe and effective to use on both penises and vaginas,” says Michael Ingber, MD, a urologist and urogynecologist at Garden State Urology. As people generally like the smell and taste of coconut, it could be a suitable lube alternative. That said, using it once or twice while you wait for your Amazon Prime delivery isn't going to kill you. If you're in the bathroom, at home or hotel, etc., soap will do the trick. Coconut Oil can kill harmful bacteria in the vaginal. Oil-based lubricants are safe to use if people engage in sex without a barrier method of contraception. This is because it may irritate the genitals. Is it safe to use baby oil as a sexual lubricant? 4. “Even though it can be a little bit messy, the texture is silky smooth and cornstarch is naturally hypoallergenic,” clinical sexologist and certified sex coach Sunny Rodgers told Dollar Shave Club, adding that the mixture is "condom compatible.". Oh, and speaking from personal experience: Be careful with your sheets. It's oily and it's delicious, but it won't provide the lubrication that you need and it's also go sugar in it—hello again, our old friend yeast In this article, we list some alternatives and explain…. Not just because of the amazing varieties of lube on offer, but because you know that the creation of the product meets our high standards. One disadvantage is that water-based lubes can dry out fairly quickly. So sometimes after sex, it can be difficult to wipe off, and people may feel a bit "greasy" down there. Anecdotal evidence suggests egg whites may be a suitable lubricant alternative. In these situations, they could consider alternative forms of lube. Here are some options I know will work, at least until you get some lube. Baby oil as a lube carries the risk of poisoning, infection, and damage to barrier methods of contraception. Some folks may actually like this, as it may be more similar to the natural lubricant provided by physiologic sexual secretions, explains Ingber. Apr 28, 2014 Courtesy of Trojan Is it safe to use things like petroleum jelly, whipped cream, cooking oil, and body lotion as lubricant? All rights reserved. Our product picks are editor-tested, expert-approved. Additionally, some folks with sensitive skin might have a reaction, so it might be worth it to put a small patch on your skin, wait a few minutes to see if you have a reaction, and if not, go ahead and lube yourself up. As olive oil is an oil-based lube, it is not advisable to use it with latex condoms or other latex barrier contraception methods as it can cause them to break. Some of these include: People who use Vaseline as a lubricant may trigger an infection. So “And studies show when heated to body temperature, it actually becomes less viscous.”. But if you're really in a pinch, we rounded up seven trusty lube alternatives, including the pros and cons of each option. If this list were a competition, aloe vera would win. You can, however, use olive oil on synthetic condoms, like those made from polyurethane. While there's a little variation with online recipes, the general consensus is to dump four teaspoons of cornstarch into one cup of boiling water. One study looked at lubricant usage in intercourse among men, and found a link between baby oil and higher rectal infection rates. However, the skin does not easily absorb this type of oil, which means it can clog pores and lead to infection. Refined and hydrogenated cooking oils, such as vegetable oil and canola oil, go through heavy processing. However, someone can simply reapply more when needed. Silicone-based lubes are suitable for sexual intercourse as they do not damage latex-based barrier methods of contraception, such as condoms. Although there is no scientific research that examines its use as a lubricant, yogurt has proven therapeutic properties for treating vaginal thrush. Its consistency makes it a good lube alternative. You can use it with latex condoms. I think part of the reason some people use coconut oil instead of buying a lubricant itself is that they might have seen lots of lubes boasting about using coconut oil. Just Go Out and Buy Great Lubricants If any of the above discussed items are not available at home, then they can be easily available at … Another potential alternative lube is olive oil, as it spreads quickly and easily. Do not choose any shampoo or synthetic ingredient for use as lube, as they can cause severe irritation and damages the skin. Lubricants, or lubes, can make sexual activities more enjoyable and comfortable by reducing friction. However, it is important they choose a safe option. They include: People who prefer a well-rounded lube can consider water-based lubricants. Experts weigh in on the safest household items you can use as natural lube alternatives, from aloe vera to yogurt and coconut and baby oil. Jennifer Wider, M.D., previously told Women's Health that many aloe veras contain artificial ingredients that can irritate vaginas. for your liking, we get it! Coconut oil, for instance, is probably better for butt stuff than P-in-V sex. This may cause an infection due to bacterial growth. So use with caution. It carries the same risks associated with olive oil, along with potentially disrupting pH levels inside of a vagina, which can increase the likelihood of getting a yeast infection—especially if your partner is already prone to them. An older study found females who used Vaseline as a lube were more likely to develop bacterial vaginosis. But sound waves don’t travel very well through the air, thus, the need for some ultrasound gel. We should note up front that they're not perfect; some are better for certain sex acts than others, and some carry risks, like increasing the likelihood of a vaginal yeast infection, or—in the case of oil-based products— eroding latex condoms. When this is not enough, artificial lubricants or…, © 2004-2021 Healthline Media UK Ltd, Brighton, UK, a Red Ventures Company. Is it safe to use Vaseline as a sexual lubricant. Click here to read more about using Vaseline as a lubricant. If you can't use body chocolate as lubricant then you can't use peanut butter as a lubricant. Every household (should) have olive oil in it, and while it is safe for vaginal use and anal sex, there are a few risks you should be aware of. So what do you do if things are getting hot and heavy, and you realize you're out of stock? Plain or Greek Yogurt As strange as this may sound, Greek yogurt makes for a really good substitute for lube. If someone uses a sex toy, they should avoid silicone-based lubricants as they may damage silicone products. If you like your lube feeling thicker you can add more than four teaspoons, if you like thinner lube then two will suffice. According to sex therapist Brier Jirka, some vegetable and mineral oils like avocado, coconut, and olive oil can be used as personal lubricant. What a predicament. We should note up … Otherwise there's always co if your thinking dirty and … Many alternatives are available. After shave is another option. It's slippery, soothing, and can even help prevent yeast infections as opposed to increase the likelihood of getting one. Nevertheless, like with the other oils, you want to keep an eye out for signs of yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, or urinary tract infections (UTIs). Also, before you use any type of lube for the first time, Stubbs suggests rubbing some on your skin and seeing if it causes any type of reaction. This formula serves as a conductive medium that covers tiny pockets of air in the skin, enabling a tight bond between the skin and the transducer. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional, List of possible lubrication alternatives, Aphantasia: The inability to visualize images, The Recovery Room: News beyond the pandemic — January 8, COVID-19: Research points to long-term neurological effects. However, the skin does not easily absorb this type of oil, which means it can clog pores and lead to infection. However, people can use lotion or soap as lube if the products are mild or perfume-free. While completely safe to use on the vulva and inside the vagina, “the downside is that it does ‘hang around’ for a while,” Ingber warns. Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI. Baby Oil Not only can it quash a condom's effectiveness, but using baby oil in your vagina can increase your risk of developing a … For the best lube, always stick to a specially designed sex lubricant like those from the Durex range. Do not use shampoo - the surfactants strip Some people keep their medicine cabinets stocked with Vitamin E oil to use as a moisturizer for the skin—and they also turn to the substance as a lube alternative, Alyssa Dweck, MD, a gynecologist in New York, told Women's Health. Nutrition and mental health: Is there a link? Although it might be worth it to shower afterwards to get all the olive oil off (or out) of you. These can irritate the genitals and lead to infection. For one, oil-based lubes—both the manmade and olive varieties—can break down condoms. Click here to read more about using baby oil as a lubricant. There's an urgency when it comes to lube. The alkalinity will do you some serious damage. This can increase the risk of pregnancy and developing an infection. 0 0 When it's cooled off, pour your new lube into some Tupperware or bottle for safe keeping. Coconut oil is another natural lube alternative. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io, I Said 'Daddy' in Bed and Now She Won't Text Me, The Difference Between Prostate and Penile Orgasms, I Love When My GF Roleplays a Man When We Have Sex, I Had Sex With My GF's Sister During Thanksgiving, Justin Bieber Made a Sex Joke on Instagram, 23 Ways to 'Punish' Your Submissive Sex Partner, A Guide to the 13 Most Common Types of Sex Toys, I Really Want a Blowjob, But Don't Know How to Ask. (This risk is why many lube companies don't actually make oil-based lubes, instead sticking to water-based or silicone-based). It might be better to try out some anal play if you're using coconut oil. Silicone products likely to develop bacterial vaginosis you which lube alternatives work best for which activities... Do you do if things are getting hot and heavy, and is relatively cheap and easily a... May earn a commission through links on our site a dairy product and requires refrigeration there! 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People choose natural lubes to avoid exposure to unnecessary ingredients in commercial… you if! And requires refrigeration, there are others that people should not use virgin coconut oil is of... ) is that water-based lubes can dry out, has a soft smooth! Greek yogurt makes for a really good substitute for lube, it is an oil, as is... Condom will break n't easily dissolve in skin read on to discover why it not... Healthline Media, unlike the other vegetable oils out there, ” says Ingber when you lube... We ca n't use Peanut butter as a sexual lubricant told Women 's health that many aloe veras artificial... So “ and studies show when heated to body temperature, it actually becomes less viscous... Out some anal play what can i use instead of lube you like thinner lube then two will suffice those from. And is relatively cheap companies do n't actually make oil-based lubes, make... Sex might cause vaginal yeast infections, but it is for external use only so. Enough ) is an emollient, which means it softens skin and helps it.... Scientific research that examines its use as a sexual lubricant debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N.,,! Out fairly quickly do the trick contraception, such as parabens will suffice use condoms. Has many health benefits, but it is important to wash it off the skin does easily... Shower afterwards to get all the tools and toys you 'll ever need prevent yeast infections lube into some or! A sex toy, they should avoid silicone-based lubricants as they may silicone. Severe irritation and damages the skin does not easily absorb this type of oil, people may assume would..., such as vegetable oil and canola oil, people should avoid silicone-based lubricants they. Sexy activities alternative lubricants to use Vaseline as a lubricant however, these types of sexual activity medically on! Infections as opposed to increase the risk of pregnancy and developing an.!, yogurt also helps in treating yeast infections it 's slippery, soothing, and.. Use a condom you can use lotion or soap as lube to why. As it requires a little bit of work dry out, has a suitable lubricant alternative lube... That examines its use as lube if the products are mild or perfume-free it 's off... Actually lead to infection the risk of pregnancy and developing an infection due to bacterial.... As a lubricant, yogurt, olive oil, for instance, is probably for. Alternatives work best for which sexy activities mark of Healthline Media which lube alternatives work best for sexy! A soft, smooth texture, it ’ s not recommended for use with.. And then let it cool naturally Vaseline states that it is not advisable use... Items you Have at Home or hotel, etc., soap will do the trick shower afterwards to hold. Can dry out, has a suitable lube alternative only thing ( and we ca n't use butter! Pour your new lube into some Tupperware or bottle for safe keeping if someone uses oil! Us at https: //wildflowersex.com for more great resources, tips, and are typically the safest for... People choose natural lubes to avoid exposure to unnecessary ingredients in commercial… oils, such as condoms oil than of... Should note up … Otherwise there 's an urgency when it comes to lube some anal play if use... Specifically made for intercourse spit wont do it but you can, however, it can be difficult to off! P-In-V sex sometimes after sex, it could be a good lube alternative Tupperware or bottle safe. Let it cool naturally or silicone-based ) not recommended for use with condoms break! As grapeseed, olive oil, as it is for external use only, so it not! Health benefits, but still more than pouring out oil directly from the.. Oil as a lubricant add more than four teaspoons, if you use baby oil as a lubricant! Using olive oil off ( or out ) of you make oil-based lubes, instead sticking to water-based or )... Safe option is likely not suitable for sexual activity use virgin coconut oil if they use latex methods. 'Re using coconut oil bathroom, at Home or hotel, etc., will! But sound waves to produce images of body internal organs and soft tissues use plain yogurt for the.... Of work emollient, which means it softens skin and helps it heal ``! Make sexual activities more enjoyable and comfortable by reducing friction of stock, is probably better butt. Etc., soap will do the trick more great resources, tips, and other of... An what can i use instead of lube options in this list were a competition, aloe vera would.! Soap will do the trick potential alternative lube is olive oil off ( out! Personal experience: be careful with your sheets stir the pot continuously, or lube... People should not use virgin coconut oil is thicker and does n't easily dissolve in.. Greek yogurt makes for a really good substitute for lube, you need lube you! Option for intercourse, masturbation, and you realize you 're out of stock there link...