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The very nature of sex requires two bodies to meet in a potentially friction restricted way. This is where sex lubricants are used to reduce friction and enhance pleasure.

What are Sex Lubricants

Sex lubricants, sometimes referred to as personal lubricants are specially designed lubricants for use during sexual activities. In a similar manner to conventional lubricants sex lubricants are designed to eliminate friction between two surfaces. All modern sex lubricants have evolved from surgical lubricants such as KY Cream that were widely used during vaginal or anal examinations to facilitate access for the surgeon and reduce discomfort for the patient. Although designed primarily as a surgical lubricant KY quickly became recognized as a great lubricant when engaging in sexual practices. In recent years a number of companies developed and marketed a range of products specifically designed to be used as sex lubricants.

Water Based Sex Lubricants

Water based lubricants are water soluble and are generally considered to be the type that is least likely to lead to skin irritation. Early water based lubes were cellulose based products but further developments has seen the addition of various agent to improve the Lubricants performance. These agents improve spreading properties and resistance to contamination.
One problem with earlier water based lubricants was their tendency to dry up during use, fortunately adding a small amount of water reactivates them. More advanced products contain dimethicone that prolongs the lubricating properties and reduces drying up.

Please note that water based lubricants are not compatible with sex practices that occur in water, as such if you enjoy sex in the bath these products are not right for you.

Oil Based Sex Lubricants

Oil based lubricants aren't widely used nowadays due to a number of problems. Unlike water based lubricants oil products weaken latex and can subsequently weaken latex condoms. Additionally oil based lubricants have a tendency to coat and stick to surfaces for prolonged periods providing a breeding ground for bacteria that can later lead to infection. As such it is generally accepted that oil based lubricants are not safe for vaginal sex and should only be used for anal sex where it is known that both parties are free from STD's.

To conclude oil based products such as Vaseline and baby oil may be easily available and relative cheap but the associated medical risks far outweigh any financial benefit.

Silicone Based Lubricants

The hydrophobic nature of silicone base lubricants technically makes them oil based. However most have been specially designed to be chemically compatible with latex condoms. The advantage of silicone sex lubricants is that they remain slippery for longer periods, the disadvantage however is that they cannot be used with silicone sex toys.

Uses of Sex Lubricants

Whilst historically medical lubricants such as Ky Jelly were used to assist during medical procedures such as gynaecological and rectal examinations modern sex lubricants are specifically designed to increase pleasure of sexual practices. The lubricants can be applied to either the penis or sex toys to aid penetration during vaginal intercourse. Particularly applicable to women that experience vaginal dryness or contraction. Lubricants are also used to increase the pleasure of anal sex, simplifying entry and increasing pleasure for both parties.

Choose wisely and you are sure to enhance your enjoyment of sex.