Silicone-based lubricants are popular for enhancing sexual pleasure, easing vaginal dryness, and relieving friction during sex. Long-lasting, water-resistant, and ultra-smooth; silicone lubricants prioritize moisture retention within the vaginal walls, protect sensitive skin, and significantly improve sensuality as well as sexual gratification.
With an array of silicone lubricants on the market, it can be challenging to decipher which ones work best to improve physical intimacy without further irritating already sensitive genital skin. Read on, for a list of the best silicone lubes according to real reviews.
What Causes Vaginal Dryness?
Most commonly caused by low estrogen levels, vaginal dryness can occur after childbirth, during breastfeeding, throughout the menopause transition, or after the ovaries have been removed (oophorectomy).
Radiation therapy around the pelvis or chemotherapy can alter the production of vaginal lubrication too. Sjögren's Syndrome is an autoimmune condition that affects the exocrine glands and results in dryness in the eyes, mouth, vagina, and other body parts.
Some allergy medications, anti-depressants, and birth control pills are also known to contribute to vaginal dryness, as does high anxiety or stress levels.
How Does Personal Lubricant Help Vaginal Dryness?
Personal lubricants are used to supplement natural vaginal lubrication when it has been reduced by hormone changes, medication, underlying conditions, or cancer treatment.
Indeed, several studies have been dedicated to the efficacy of lubricants for both men and women with promising results. According to the Center for Sexual Health Promotion, for instance, using lubrication improved sexual comfort and satisfaction for 70% of their female participants.
Applying a few drops of personal lubricant to the outer vagina during foreplay can relieve irritation or dryness and improve female sexual arousal. And smearing a little lube on the penis is known to make penetration more comfortable and create a moisturized vaginal environment for more enjoyable intercourse.
The Best Silicone Lubricants According to Real Reviews
The silicone lubricants on our list are hypoallergenic to protect sensitive skin, and free of parabens, glycerin, synthetic fragrances, and flavors to avoid vaginal pH imbalances that could lead to yeast infections or UTIs.
As with most silicone-based lubes, those on our list usually require soap to remove their residue from skin and fabrics.
1. Pjur Original Bodyglide
Known for its silky and non-sticky texture, Pjur Original Bodyglide is highlighted as a top pick for sensitive skin. Although some customers mention the need for reapplication, the majority appreciate its long-lasting effects and how it relieves friction and discomfort during sex.
Pjur Woman Bodyglide, which is created especially for women, promises an even softer and more soothing texture to relieve vaginal dryness and provide more comfort during intercourse.
2. Wet Platinum Premium Silicone Lubricant
Positively reviewed for its slippery application and durability in water, Wet Platinum Silicone Lubricant is praised for being a smooth and long-lasting lubricant for sex play in the shower or bath.
Some reviews mention that it may stain fabrics so it’s a good idea to be careful with your favourite bedsheets.
3. Astroglide X Premium Silicone Lubricant
Astroglide is a well-established brand with a solid reputation as a lubricant producer. The Astroglide X Premium Silicone Lubricant is particularly popular for its long-lasting effects and is considered one of the best lubes for staying lubricated during extended play.
For full disclosure on the downside, even though it is hypoallergenic, some reviewers experienced irritation and others mentioned it can be difficult to get the product out of the bottle.
4. Uberlube Luxury Lubricant
Uberlube is marketed as a luxury lubricant and reviewers often remark on its slippery texture that rarely requires reapplication and feels mild on sensitive skin. Although it’s more expensive than other popular lubes, customers appreciate its stylish and discreet bottle and its subtly natural scent.
Although this luxury lube has a lot of positive reviews, some reviewers felt that the high price did not justify its performance compared to less expensive lubes.
5. Sliquid Silver Premium Silicone Lubricant
This ultra-slick silicone lubricant is widely praised for its long-lasting and slightly thicker consistency. While most reviews mention that it’s a great pick for those requiring extra lubrication, especially for anal sex, it can be a little on the heavy side for some.
That said, it receives positive feedback from customers with sensitive skin for its high-quality and natural ingredients.
6. Eternity Silicone-Based Lubricant
Even though Intimate Rose is a relatively new brand compared to some of the more established lubricant producers, the reviews for their Eternity Silicone-Based Lubricant are excellent. Free of harmful ingredients, this lube is rated highly for its silky-smooth texture and similarity to natural lubrication.
Customers whose sensitive skin has reacted to other silicone lubricants praised this product for its quality ingredients, durability, moisturizing effects, and lack of irritation on dry or delicate vaginal skin.
Other Types of Personal Lubricants
There are three types of personal lubricants: water-based, silicone-based, and oil-based.
Silicone-based personal lubricants are typically long-lasting, water-resistant, rarely require re-application during sex, and are designed to feel similar to natural lubrication in the vagina. Although most silicone lubes are hypoallergenic and free of harmful ingredients to protect the delicate vaginal microbiome, it’s wise to check the labels to prevent further vaginal irritation or the onset of infections.
The only real downside to silicone lubricants is that they cannot be used with silicone dilators or sex toys because silicone on silicone creates a chemical reaction that can damage the outer lining of silicone pelvic tools and sex aids.
Water-based personal lubricants provide a lighter film of moisture than silicone lubes. Although these lubricants tend to absorb quicker than silicone or oil-based lubes and typically require reapplication, the lighter consistency and ease of cleaning from the body and sheets are often preferable for many. You can see our list of the best water-based lubes here.
On the upside, water-based lubes do not damage silicone dilators, sex toys, or condoms. However, because they absorb quickly, they are not ideal for sexual activity in the shower or bath.
Oil-based lubricants are usually greasier, thicker, and heavier than the other two. They can irritate some vaginal environments and they are known to damage latex condoms. For these reasons, most female health professionals advise against using oil-based lubes.
Conclusion
Based on real reviews, the best silicone-based lubricants are long-lasting, rarely require reapplication, and are non-irritating for sensitive skin. Consumers also appear to prefer a silicone-based lubricant that feels silky and smooth instead of thick or heavy.
Our list of the best silicone lubricants outlined above gives an idea of what you can expect from each of the top choices. It’s wise to understand that the choice of lube will differ for each woman depending on their specific needs, skin sensitivity, texture preferences, and whether they plan to use it in water.
Before purchasing a silicone lubricant, check the label to ensure it is hypoallergenic and free of harmful ingredients like parabens, glycerin, synthetic flavors, or fragrances.
References
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists - Experiencing Vaginal Dryness? Here's What You Need to Know - https://www.acog.org/womens-health/experts-and-stories/the-latest/experiencing-vaginal-dryness-heres-what-you-need-to-know
Mayo Clinic - Sjögren's syndrome - https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sjogrens-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20353216
National Institute on Aging – What is Menopause - https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/menopause/what-menopause
Health – 5 Medications that Can Lead to Vaginal Dryness - https://www.health.com/condition/cold/cold-medicine-cause-vaginal-dryness
Medical News Today - What to know about vaginal lubrication - https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326450
Cleveland Clinic – Estrogen - https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/22353-estrogen
Science Daily - Studies About Why Men and Women Use Lubricants During Sex - https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/11/091109090431.htm
