Lubricants & Moisturizers

Vaginal moisturizers and intimate lubricants are two different tools that support comfort and sexual health. Moisturizers are used regularly to hydrate and restore the vaginal tissue over time, much like a facial moisturizer for skin. Lubricants, on the other hand, are used in the moment to reduce friction, enhance comfort, and make intimacy more enjoyable. Both can be used together, depending on your needs.

Types of Lubricants

Water-based lubricants (like Good Clean Love) use water as the main ingredient. They’re safe to use with any body part, condom, or toy material, making them very versatile. The main drawback is that they dry out faster and often need to be reapplied.

Silicone-based lubricants (such as Uberlube) feel velvety, rich, and never sticky. They last longer than water-based options and are also condom-safe. However, they can wear down silicone toys over time, so those may need to be replaced sooner.

Oil-based lubricants often use natural oils such as coconut oil. They feel silky and smooth, warm up to body temperature, and don’t feel cold when applied. However, they are not compatible with condoms or silicone toys since they can cause breakdown and damage.

Hybrid lubricants are a blend of water and silicone. They provide a slightly thicker, silkier feel than water-based options but without enough silicone to damage most toys.

Myths About Lube

Lube isn’t just for older people—anyone can experience friction or dryness, and it can enhance comfort and pleasure at any age. Another common myth is that using lube means you weren’t “aroused enough.” In reality, not all bodies lubricate on demand, and many don’t at all. Using lube doesn’t reflect your level of arousal—it’s simply a tool to make intimacy more enjoyable and pain-free.

Safety and Use

If you tend to have sensitive skin, look for products with short ingredient lists. Silicone lubes are hypoallergenic and remain on the surface of the skin instead of being absorbed, which makes them gentle for many users. Be cautious with flavored or heated products, as extra additives increase the chance of irritation. Avoid lubricants that contain sugar, as they can disrupt vaginal health; if you prefer sweetness, stevia is a safer alternative.

Lubes generally last about a year, even though they don’t come with strict expiration dates. As long as the consistency, smell, and feel remain normal, they’re safe to use. Keep in mind that lubricants are meant for comfort during intimacy, while moisturizers are designed for long-term hydration.

“Natural” and Organic Lubes

“Natural” or “botanical” lubricants often include extra ingredients you may not need, and “organic” labels usually mean a certain percentage of organic content—aloe vera is often used in place of water to meet that requirement.

Vaginal Moisturizers

Vaginal moisturizers, unlike lubricants, are absorbed into the tissue and work over time to restore hydration. Products like Bonafide Revaree Plus (a hormone-free vaginal insert with hyaluronic acid and almond oil) are used two to three times per week at bedtime. Another option is Via by SolveWellness, which contains hyaluronic acid, vitamins E and C, peptides, jojoba oil, and CoQ10, and is recommended at least three times per week.