When it comes to anal play, anal lube will be the ingredient that makes all difference between a satisfying session and a painful experience. Almost all sex is enhanced with a good slick of lube, which can help prolong your love-making sessions, reduce friction, and make masturbation more enjoyable.
Anal lubricant differs from regular lube; the consistency is much thicker which helps protect the sensitive skin of the anus. With an abundance of choices on the market, it can be difficult finding the best anal lube for you. Just like regular lubes, choosing the right anal lube depends on what you’re doing and which toys you’re using.
Water-Based Lube
Water-based anal lubes are specially formulated to be thick and longer-lasting than regular lubricants. They tend to be smooth and slick, and lack the sticky and messy-ness that silicone and oil-based lubes are known to have. As they’re water-soluble, skin and mucous membranes will absorb them. This is great for those who like a quick and easy clean up after sex: all you need is a bit of warm water and some soap, and the lube will easily wash off the skin.
The best all-rounder; water-based lubes are condom-compatible, won’t stain your sheets, and can be used with most toys, as opposed to oil-based lubes that corrode latex.
However, one of the main side-effects is the fact that it dissolves easily within water since. So, if you’re planning on getting it on in a hot tub, pool, or shower then opt for another type of lube.
We recommend: Kinx Anal Slix Water-Based Lube (€14.92) and Pjur Back Door Water Comfort Anal Glide (€17.22).
Silicone Lube
Silicone lubes are generally slicker and last much longer than any other lubes. So, there’ll be no need to stop mid-session to reapply! They are also waterproof, condom safe, and don’t harbour any bacteria.
However, silicone lube cannot be used with silicone or Cyberskin toys. They can also be difficult to clean and may stain.
For advanced players, Silicone anal lube is recommended. They tend to be a little greasier and thinner in texture, which allows both parties to experience more sensation. As they’re often more slippery than water-based lube, penetration can end up being deeper and faster than intended, so caution should be taken when first used.
We recommend: Pjur Premium Extremeglide (€17.22) and Spunk Lube (€22.96).
Oil-Based Lube
Oil-based lubes contain petroleum-jelly, and are generally not as popular as other types of lube. They are thick, long-lasting, and contain less chemicals than water-based lubes. So, they’re perfect for fisting and those who are sensitive to certain forms of lubricant.
One of the main disadvantages is that they are not compatible with latex products, as the oil will wear down the product quickly causing holes and tearing. So, you can’t use them with latex condoms or dams. They’re also not recommended for use with toys as it can erode certain materials.
Desensitising Anal Lube
Anal play can be a little uncomfortable for beginners. A slick of a desensitising anal lube can help you relax and get the most from the experience. Desensitising lubes and sprays can be water-based or a silicone formulation.
However, it should be used with caution. If you need desensitising lube for regular anal sex, there might be a bigger problem. Pain is a sign that something isn’t right and without these signs you could cause some serious damage.
We recommend: Pjur Silicone Back Door Relaxing Anal Glide (€18.36) and Relaxxx (€17.22).
Flavoured
Rimming can be greatly improved by adding some flavoured lube. The variety of flavours available is endless, so you are bound to find something that you like. Not only does it taste better, but the extra slipperiness is guaranteed to enhance the fun!
We recommend: Durex Play Saucy Strawberry (€6.88) and ID Fruitopia in Bubblegum (€11.47).
Finding the best lube for anal play all comes down to first evaluating what you and your partner’s needs are, and which lube will bring you the most satisfaction and fun to your kinky sessions.