What is silicone lubricant?

Silicone lubricant is one of the intimate lubricants created to make intercourse easier, as an excellent substitute for natural vaginal secretions. Applied to the genitals or over a condom, it facilitates penetration by providing incomparable glide. Whether for medical reasons or for pleasure, don't ignore silicone-based lube: it's here to enhance your sexuality.

Why choose a silicone lubricant?

Hypoallergenic and safe, silicone lubricant is also hydrophobic. This means it settles on the surface of the epithelium and does not penetrate the mucous membranes. It therefore has no moisturizing power, but it easily replaces cyprine, providing five times the lubrication of other products. This is why, although silicone lubricants are known to be more suitable for anal sex, they are also very popular for vaginal penetration.

There are many reasons to use silicone lubricants: hormonal imbalance such as menopause, intimate dryness, insufficient natural lubrication, unwanted friction or discomfort during vaginal intercourse. Silicone-based lube simply remedies these problems, improving comfort and well-being during intercourse. What's more, it's non-sticky and easy to clean.

Superior lubricity

The secret of silicone lubricant lies in its low evaporation rate, making it long-lasting during intercourse. Since it doesn't penetrate the skin and stays on the surface without drying out, its slippery texture is far superior and remains for a long time, even outside the body. That's why it's often used for massages or long erotic sessions. What's more, its hydrophobic properties make it ideal for playing in water. Finally, it replaces petroleum jelly, which is not recommended because of its many properties incompatible with the human body.

For anal penetration.

Silicone lubricant's reputation has been built primarily on anal intercourse. Whether for sodomy or fisting, it's the best product for the job. Indeed, since the anus has no natural secretion like the vagina, it's absolutely essential to lubricate it well before any penetration, whether it's a phalanx to try, an anal plug, a penis or a whole fist. Otherwise, you run the risk of injuring your partner, given the fragility of the anal area and surrounding tissues.

Another important point is the psychological aspect. During anal intercourse, whether you're a beginner or an expert, lubricant makes you feel more serene before penetration. The body is more relaxed, and so is the anus, so there's little or no risk of pain. In fact, insufficient or non-existent lubrication is the main cause of pain during sodomy, which can be felt by both parties. So don't hesitate to use the right amount during your lovemaking: silicone lubricant brings well-being and comfort to both partners.

How to choose your lubricant?

With so many products on the market, so many brands to choose from, and so many options for water-based lubricants, how do you choose the right one for you?

What are the differences between silicone lubricants?

Composition is the first factor to consider when choosing your silicone lubricant. Some are perfectly neutral, while others are scented, for example with monoi, to serve as both massage oil and lube. What's more, a scent that evokes vacations plays a psychological role on the people who use it, since it immediately relaxes. However, for a more relaxing effect, there are silicone lubricants that offer a numbing, tingling sensation to help relax the anus before penetration. Silicone lube with clove oil is also useful for lightly anesthetizing the anal area, as well as having anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties. The differences also lie in texture: a silicone lubricant can be fluid with a satiny feel, or thicker to help with certain practices like fisting. Otherwise, you can always turn to a special fist lubricant, specifically designed for this practice.

In terms of containers, silicone lubricants come in tubes or pumps with a push cap for ease of use during intercourse, especially when you want to refill a dose with a snap of your fingers. Quantity is also an important factor if you use lube very regularly.

What's the difference with water-based lube?

Water-based lube moisturizes the mucous membranes and soothes the symptoms of vaginal dryness. It also restores the pH balance and is compatible with sex toys. Silicone lubricant, on the other hand, is five times more slippery than water-based lubricant, is totally hydrophobic, does not dry out, can be used for massages, does not affect vaginal flora, and lasts four times longer because bacteria cannot grow in it. What's more, it's much more suitable for anal intercourse than a water-based lubricant, which would require a considerable dose to be repeated throughout intercourse.

What are the recommendations for silicone lubricants?

Is silicone lubricant totally safe for the body and sexual practices? Find out more about our recommendations for transparent, risk-free use.

Is silicone lubricant compatible with condoms?

Yes, both products are fully compatible, and silicone-based lube is even recommended for use with latex condoms. In fact, it's the one most often applied to condoms, so it's highly likely that you've already used one without knowing it. And because latex and silicone work well together, fetishists often use this product to polish the rubber of their outfits.

Can silicone lubricant be used with sex toys?

It's a well-known fact that silicone lubricants are not recommended for use with sextoys made of the same material. This is because of the liquid silicone molecules that seep into your toy. The resulting chemical reactions simply degrade the silicone, to the point of deforming or disintegrating it. If your dildos are made of silicone, it's advisable to choose a water-based lube. However, many manufacturers of silicone sex toys are looking for alternatives to make both compatible, so if in doubt, read the instructions carefully. On the other hand, for metal, glass or plastic sex toys: you can use a silicone lubricant without any problem.

Do I need a lubricant adapted to each type of sex?

Ideally, yes. But more precisely, it's a question of finding the lube that best suits your sexual practices and tastes. For example, silicone lubricant is not inadvisable for oral sex, but its oily texture and taste may put you off. On the other hand, it is indispensable for anal sex. As for vaginal penetration, it all depends on the person in question, their intimate flora, the sensations they're looking for and their own sensitivity. You can also carry out different tests and see what suits you best, depending on the situation. In any case: don't skip out on the lube for your own well-being.

Are there any contraindications to silicone lubricant?

The biggest contraindication is incompatibility with silicone sex toys. In terms of health and well-being, it's an excellent regulator of natural secretions, whether insufficient or abundant. Nevertheless, it is not recommended for pregnant women, as it may slow down sperm progression and thus reduce fertility during intercourse. It is also not recommended for women with sexual irritations, as glycerine can exacerbate them. Glucose-based perfumed lubes are not recommended in such cases, as they can worsen infections or itching in people who are sensitive to them. Generally speaking, if your vaginal flora is fragile, it's best to opt for a water-based lubricant.

As for the composition, if you're concerned about the presence of cyclopentasiloxane (a cyclic siloxane also known as Silicone D5) in your lubricant, particularly in terms of the environment, you can opt for an alternative that doesn't contain it. Your silicone lubricant may be slightly less slippery, but you'll be able to use it without regret, and it will still be more effective than a water-based lube.

How do I use a silicone lubricant?

You don't need to follow any instructions; it's used in the same way as other lubes. You can put some in your hand to massage the penis, pour some directly onto your partner's private parts, or put some on the condom. Don't skimp on the quantity: the more generous you are, the better your intercourse will be. Remember, however, to clean up afterwards with soap and water, as silicone doesn't dry on its own. Also, it's important to know that silicone lubricant stains fabrics: so remember to put a towel or special sheet underneath if you value your bedding or clothes.

Preparing for anal penetration

Whether it's with a penis or toys like a dildo harness, for example as part of pegging, or for a harder BDSM practice like fisting, then you need to prepare the ground properly so that your partner feels comfortable and can experience pleasure without the slightest pain. You can start by creating a relaxing atmosphere with candles and music. Don't hesitate to start with a massage: that's the advantage of some versatile silicone lubricants. Talk to your partner all the way through, asking him how he feels, if he likes it, if he feels ready... Proceed at his own pace.

Go gradually and gently, especially if it's your first time. You can use stimulants or poppers to help dilate the anus or anesthetize the anal area. If you're about to fist your partner, use disposable latex gloves: more than a question of hygiene, it's also a question of prevention, for both of you.