All You Need to Know! The Definitive Guide to Choosing the Best Lubricant and Protecting Your Intimate Health

Using intimate lubricants can not only improve comfort during sex, but can also increase pleasure. In fact, a 2009 Indiana University study of 2,453 women found that over 70% of participants said using lubricants made sex more pleasurable and enjoyable.

However, with so many options on the market, choosing the right lubricant can be quite a challenge. In this guide, we will help you make the best choice to take care of your intimate health, while maximizing your well-being and pleasure.

Why is it important to choose the right lubricant?

An intimate lubricant is a product designed to reduce friction during sexual intercourse or the use of sex toys, facilitating a more comfortable and pleasurable experience. These products help compensate for the lack of natural lubrication, which can vary depending on factors such as hormonal changes, stress, the use of certain medications or simply personal preferences.

Choosing the right lubricant is essential because, as they say, “the wetter, the better.” A good lubricant not only improves comfort and pleasure during sex, but it also protects your intimate health. Not all lubricants are created equal, and what might work for one person may not be ideal for another. The wrong lubricant could cause irritation, alter vaginal pH, or even increase the risk of infections.

Additionally, some lubricants contain ingredients such as parabens, glycerin or perfumes that can be irritating to sensitive skin or cause infections in susceptible people. So, just as you take care of the products you apply to your skin, you should pay the same attention when choosing what you use in your intimate area.

Remember that using lubricants is not just reserved for those who suffer from vaginal dryness. Many people use them to enhance enjoyment and make intimate moments more comfortable and pleasurable. Choosing a good lubricant is key to ensuring that both your well-being and your sexual experience are optimal.

Types of lubricants and their characteristics

Choosing the right lubricant for you can seem like a daunting task with so many options available. However, the first thing you need to consider is the type of lubricant .

The most common ones are divided into three main groups: water-based, silicone-based and oil-based. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, so here is a clear description so you can make the best decision:

Advantages of water-based lubricants:

• Good tolerance: The advantage of water-based lubricants is that they are generally well tolerated, whether you are prone to allergies, sensitive skin or even vaginal dryness.
• Easy to clean: Water-based lubricants rinse off very easily with water. They do not leave a greasy finish or residue.
• No stains: Water-based lubricants do not leave stains on sheets or clothes.
• Good for the environment: Water-based lubricant gels are especially good for the environment because they are composed primarily of water (over 90%).
• Edible: Water-based lubricant gels are edible. We know you can imagine what you can do with this information.
• Compatibility: Condoms, sex toys, medical equipment.
• Our Long Lasting Gel has the advantage of lasting longer and hyaluronic acid helps balance the pH.

• Silicone-based lubricants: These are ideal for prolonged sexual intercourse or for use in water, as they are more resistant than water-based lubricants, but they can also be more difficult to clean and are not recommended for use with silicone sex toys, as they can damage them.
• Oil-based lubricants: Although not as common as the above, oil-based lubricants offer a more moisturizing option, making them perfect for erotic massages. However, they are not recommended for use with latex condoms, as they can weaken them and cause breakage. Additionally, they can be harder to clean and cause vaginal infections in those who are prone to them.

Which one should I choose?

It all depends on your personal preferences and specific needs. If you're looking for something simple, uncomplicated, and can be used with condoms or toys, water-based lube is a safe choice.

Ingredients to avoid in a lubricant (and those you should look for)

Not all lubricants are created equal, and some contain ingredients that can be harmful or irritating to your intimate area. As with any personal care product, it's important to read labels and know what you're putting on your body. Here's a list of ingredients to avoid when choosing a lubricant, as well as some you should actively look for for their benefits.

Ingredients to avoid:

• Parabens
  Parabens are chemical preservatives used to prolong the shelf life of products. However, parabens are associated with allergic reactions and, in some studies, have been linked to hormonal problems. Opting for paraben-free lubricants is one way to take care of your health in the long term.
• Glycerin
  Although found in many cosmetic products, glycerin in lubricants can be problematic for some people. This ingredient can increase the risk of yeast infections, especially in women who are prone to them. If you have had frequent vaginal infections, it is best to look for lubricants without glycerin.
• Perfumes or fragrances
  While it may be tempting to choose a pleasant-smelling lubricant, added perfumes and fragrances can cause irritation or allergic reactions to the delicate skin of the intimate area. Additionally, these products can alter the vaginal pH, increasing the risk of infections.
• Petrolatum and mineral oils
  These petroleum-derived ingredients may be more common in oil-based lubricants. While they're good for durability and moisturization, they're not compatible with latex condoms and can cause irritation or infection. It's best to avoid them if you plan on using condoms or if you have sensitive skin.

Ingredients to look for:

Instead of harmful ingredients, water-based lubricants with natural ingredients are a much safer and more beneficial option. One star ingredient you should look for is hyaluronic acid . Found in Zenzsual lubricants, this component has multiple benefits:

• Deep hydration: Hyaluronic acid is famous for its ability to retain large amounts of water, which helps keep the intimate area naturally hydrated. This is ideal for combating vaginal dryness and preventing irritation.
• Tissue repair and regeneration: This ingredient also promotes cell regeneration, helping to keep the skin and tissues of the intimate area healthy and protected.
• Smooth and comfortable feel: Lubricants with hyaluronic acid create a smooth and light texture, which leaves no sticky residue and significantly improves comfort during use.

Opting for water-based lubricants with hyaluronic acid not only guarantees a more pleasurable and natural experience, but also takes care of your intimate health.

Busting myths about lubricant use

• "If you need lube, it's because you're not interested in your partner."
  False . Using lube has nothing to do with a lack of desire. Sometimes, your body just doesn't keep up, and that's completely normal. Hormonal changes, medications, or simply seeking more comfort and pleasure are all more than valid reasons. Your well-being comes first!
• "Lubricants are only for older people or those with vaginal dryness"
  No, no, and no. Everyone can benefit from a good lubricant. Even if you don't have dryness issues, it can enhance the experience by reducing friction and increasing pleasure. Lubricant is an ally for all ages!
• "Lubricants are harmful or artificial"
  Nothing could be further from the truth . Nowadays, there are many natural, organic and hypoallergenic options that are completely safe for your body. Just make sure to check the label and avoid ingredients like parabens or fragrances.
• "If I use lubricant, something is wrong in my relationship"
  Not at all! Using lubricant does not indicate that there are problems in the relationship. In fact, it can be a way of taking care of each other and making those intimate moments more pleasurable and comfortable for both of you.

How to apply lubricant correctly

While there is no “right” way to use lube, there are some tips that can help you get the most out of it and enjoy a more comfortable and pleasurable experience. Do you need it for masturbation? Are you in the mood, but your body just isn’t getting the message to start lubricating naturally yet? It’s best to apply it generously.

The advice is simple: apply as much as you like and where you need it – in the vagina, penis or anus, depending on what you prefer. If you have already found the ideal lubricant for you, you could also warm it up a little by rubbing it in your hands before applying it. This is not necessary, but it can be more comfortable, as some lubricants can be cold when you take it out of the container.

Also, if you are using condoms, don't forget to apply lubricant to the outside of the condom. Lubricant can also be used with sex toys, diaphragms, or dental dams, helping to reduce friction and making sex more pleasurable.

Now that you know how to choose the perfect lubricant, it's time to put it into practice! Zenzsual intimate gels , water-based and with hyaluronic acid, are designed to moisturize, protect and make you enjoy to the fullest.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. How can I choose the best lubricant for me?
   When choosing a lubricant, the most important thing is to know your personal needs and preferences. If you have sensitive skin or are prone to infections, it is best to opt for water-based lubricants that do not contain parabens, glycerin or fragrances.
2. What should I consider when choosing a lubricant?
   When choosing a lubricant, pay attention to the ingredients, compatibility with condoms and sex toys, and texture. Natural ingredients and products with hyaluronic acid are great options if you're looking for something moisturizing and safe .
3. Can lubricant cause infections?
   Some lubricants may increase the risk of infections if they contain ingredients such as glycerin or perfumes, which can alter vaginal pH and facilitate the growth of bacteria or fungi. If you are prone to infections, look for water-based, glycerin-free lubricants.

4 How do I know if I am allergic to a lubricant?
If you experience irritation, itching, or discomfort after using a lubricant, you could be having an allergic reaction. To avoid this, we recommend opting for hypoallergenic lubricants that are free of harsh ingredients, such as those containing fragrance, parabens, or glycerin. You can test a small patch of skin before using it to make sure you don't have any adverse reactions.

5 How much lubricant should I use?
The ideal amount varies from person to person and from situation to situation. It's best to start with a small amount and add more as needed. There's no hard and fast rule, the important thing is that you feel comfortable and enjoy the experience. If you feel that the friction is still uncomfortable, simply apply more.

Sources consulted:

Lube Up for Better Lovin'

https://www.webmd.com/sex-relationships/features/lube-up-for-better-lovin

How to Choose the Best Lube for Your Sex Life

https://www.healthline.com/health/healthy-sex/lube-shopping-guide-types#13

How to pick a lubricant

https://helloclue.com/articles/sex/how-to-pick-a-lubricant

How to use an intimate lubricant

https://www.durex.es/blogs/articulos-sobre-sexo/como-usar-un-lubricante-intimo