Lubricant is one of our very favourite things here at Naughty North and we believe that everybody should have at LEAST one kind in their sexy times toolbox. Using a great lubricant makes any king of sex – solo, coupled, with or without toys – so much more thrilling. There are thousands of different styles, brands, and formulations of personal lubricant on the market and they’re not all created equal, so read on and let the experts at Naughty North guide you to the perfect lube for YOU.

WATER BASED LUBRICANTS

This is the lube most of us are familiar with. Water based lubricant has water as the main ingredient mixed with emulsifiers to give it that thicker consistency.

PROS

• Great to use with condoms, silicone toys, anything really. You can’t go wrong in terms of compatibility
• Easy clean-up and non-staining
• Clear and slippery, many water based brands include flavored versions or ones that tingle or heat

CONS

• Doesn’t last as long as oil or silicone-based lubes because the water absorbs into the skin
• Some water-based lubes contain Glycerin which is gentle, slightly sweet, edible, and body safe BUT glycerin can convert to sugar in the vagina causing yeast infections in those with elevated sensitivity. Read your labels carefully if you think this could be a concern for you.

**NAUGHTY NORTH’S EXPERT STAFF RECOMMENDS**

Wicked Aqua Sensitive Unscented Lube Why? Glycerin Free.  pH Balanced. Liquid Texture. Gentle. Unscented. Unflavoured. Non-staining. Vegan.

Wicked Simply Aqua Jelle Water Based Lube Why? Extra emulsifiers create a thick gel that stays where you put it. Glycerin Free. pH Balanced. Gentle. Unscented. Unflavoured. Non-Staining. Vegan.

HYBRID SILICONE AND WATER BASED LUBRICANTS

These lubes have a cloudier and slightly thicker texture because there is a bit of silicone added to the water formulation. We at Naughty North believe hybrids are the unsung heroes of lubricants because of their versatility.

PROS

• Feels smooth and creamy and if it dries a bit during sex, can be reactivated with a bit of moisture like saliva
• Ideal for any sex toys, particularly silicone toys
• Condom safe
• Easy clean-up and non-staining
• Has that cloudy appearance that makes it perfect for cum play toys or scenarios

CONS

• Because this is also primarily water, it can dry out and need to be rehydrated or reapplied because the water absorbs into the skin

**NAUGHTY NORTH’S EXPERT STAFF RECOMMENDS**

Wicked Simply Hybrid Water and Silicone Based Lubricant Why? Silky and smooth. Antioxidant Olive Leaf Extract added. Non staining. Unflavoured. Unscented. Vegan. Glycerin Free. pH Balanced. Gentle

Wicked Simply Hybrid Jelle Silicone and Water Based Lubricant Why? Silky and smooth. Extra emulsifiers create a thick gel that stays where you put it. Antioxidant Olive Leaf Extract added. Non staining. Unflavoured. Unscented. Vegan. Glycerin Free. pH Balanced. Gentle

SILICONE BASED LUBRICANTS

Silicone lubricants are the workhorse of the lubricant family because they are thicker, longer lasting and won’t dry out. This makes them ideal for anal penetration, and longer play times. The important thing to know about silicone lubricants is how and when to use them.

PROS

• Silicone lasts longer than water based because the body doesn’t absorb it
• Silicone lubes are great for using in the water so it’s great for play in the tub and pool
• Silicone can be used on latex condoms BUT other oils cannot
• Preferred for anal sex because it is super slick and lasts a long time.

CONS

• DON’T USE ON SILICONE TOYS. SILICONE BONDS TO SILICONE AND WILL MAKE THE SURFACE OF YOUR TOYS TACKY. There are exceptions to the rule that involve the grade of silicone of the toy and the exact combination of ingredients in the lube but you really need have all your facts straight or risk hurting your silicone toys
• Can stain your sheets and clothing
• Needs to be washed off with soap and water, toy cleaner, or wipes.
• More expensive than water-based lubricants or hybrids.

**NAUGHTY NORTH’S EXPERT STAFF RECOMMENDS**

Pjur Original Silicone Based Personal Lubricant Why? No additives. Long lasting. Condom compatible. Dermatologically tested

Wicked Ultra Fragrance Free Silicone Lubricant Why? Long lasting. Smooth. Never tacky or greasy. Fragrance free. No additives. Vegan.

OIL BASED LUBRICANTS

Often made of coconut oil, mineral oil or petroleum, these are specialized lubricants that are also often called “masturbation cream.” While they have fantastic lasting power, there are several drawbacks which means oil based lubricants are not for everybody.

PROS

• These lubes are great to double for massage because they are slippery and don’t absorb into the skin
• They are great for LONG sessions because they just don’t give up
• Great for penis masturbation
• Pure coconut oil lubricants are great for external vaginal moisture but talk to your doctor before using it internally

CONS

• Not latex condom compatible: Oil based lubricants will break down latex condoms, so they should not be used for penetrative, protected sex. You must use condoms made of made out of polyurethane or nitrile. Items such as Vaseline and baby oil should also be considered oil based lubricants.
• The oils cannot be flushed from the body after penetration because they are waterproof so you are more at risk of yeast and other infections, particularly when using them vaginally

**NAUGHTY NORTH’S EXPERT STAFF RECOMMENDS**

Boy Butter Oil Based Lubricant with Coconut Oil Why? Plant Based, Washable. Long lasting. Edible.