Oil-based or water-based lubricant—which should I choose?

Lubricant can make sex and other sexual touch more pleasant by reducing friction. But not all lubricants work in the same way. Water-based and oil-based lubricants have different properties, and the best choice depends partly on how you want to use them.

Quick answer: Water-based lubricant is a versatile first choice, especially if you use latex condoms. Oil-based lubricant often lasts longer, but should not be used with latex condoms. Oil can weaken latex and cause the condom to break.

At a glance

Water-based lubricant – simple and versatile

Water-based lubricant is suitable for many types of sexual activity. It is easy to wash off with water and usually feels fairly natural. A major advantage is that it can be used with latex condoms.

Water-based lubricant can dry out more quickly during sex. You may need to reapply it to maintain a slippery feel and reduce friction.

Water-based lubricant is well suited to:

• vaginal sex
• anal sex
• masturbation
• use with latex condoms
• use with many sex toys

Oil-based lubricant – rich and long-lasting

Oil-based products, such as those containing mineral oil or vegetable oils, often last longer. They can feel particularly slippery and usually do not need to be reapplied as often. This is why some people prefer them for activities such as anal sex or body massage.

Do not use oil-based products with latex condoms. Oil can weaken latex and increase the risk of the condom breaking. This also applies to products such as petroleum jelly, baby oil, massage oil, lotion and cooking oil.

What is best for anal sex?

Lubricant is especially important during anal sex because the anus does not have the same natural lubrication as the vagina. Using enough lubricant can reduce friction and make sex more pleasurable.

Water-based and silicone-based lubricants can be used with latex condoms. Water-based lubricant may need to be reapplied during longer sexual activity. If you use latex condoms, avoid oil-based products.

What if you use sex toys?

Check what material your sex toy is made from. Water-based lubricant is often a simple first choice because it works with many different materials. Also read the manufacturer’s instructions. Some sex toys can be affected by oil-based products.

Can oil-based lubricant be used without a condom?

Yes, oil-based lubricant can be an option if you are not using a condom. If you are using one, check that the lubricant is compatible with that particular condom. Oil-based products should not be used with latex condoms.

A simple rule of thumb

If you want a lubricant that works in most situations, water-based lubricant is a good first choice. If you want something that lasts longer and feels particularly slippery, oil-based lubricant can be an option – but not with latex condoms.

The most important thing is to use enough lubricant to reduce friction. If you use latex condoms, choose a water-based or silicone-based lubricant.

There are so many products available. Which should I choose?

There are many products to choose from, and a more expensive product is not always better. Consider how you want to use the lubricant and what feels good to you. Check that it is compatible with any condom or sex toy you use, and try different options to find a product that suits you.