You may be mentally ready for action, but if your body isn’t on the same page, a good lubricant (aka lube) can help ease any friction and combat discomfort during sex and masturbation.
Vaginal dryness can happen at any time and for a variety of reasons, with hormones having a big impact. Due to fluctuations in oestrogen levels, it’s a common – and often uncomfortable – symptom of perimenopause and menopause.
But it’s not just for those who are looking to combat dryness or discomfort. Lube can be used by anyone and everyone to enhance sexual pleasure. It also comes in different flavours and some are designed to create cooling and warming sensations on application.
That’s why it’s a good idea to have a bottle of tucked away in your bedside drawer to help things run a little, well, smoother.
We spoke to women’s health specialist and GP Dr Chandni Rajani to get the low down on how lube can help down, as well as rounding up our top buys below – here they are at a glance but keep scrolling for more detail.
Best lubes
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How to use lube
Lubricant can be applied to the penis, sex toy, vulva, vagina, or anywhere else you think needs it. “Lube enhances comfort and pleasure during sex,” Dr Rajani says.
“Choose the right type (more on that below) and apply a small amount to the desired area. Reapply as needed during intercourse. Experiment to find what works best for you and your partner.”
We also suggest warming it up in your hands first.
The benefits of using lube during menopause
Vaginal dryness during menopause occurs because of a reduction in levels of oestrogen. This causes the lining of the vagina to become drier and thinner, which can result in itching, burning and pain during sex.
This can affect you both in an outside the bedroom, which is why it’s a good idea to invest in a good lubricant. Whether you keep it for when you’re ready to have fun in the bedroom or use it as an emollient (a moisturising treatment) for every day, it can help to soothe and ease discomfort.
What are the different types of lube?
Dr Rajani breaks down the three most common types.
Water: Water-based lubricants are generally safe for the skin, hypoallergenic, and unlikely to irritate. They absorb quickly, leaving little residue and are compatible with condoms and sex toys.
Silicone: Silicone-based lubricants are generally safe for skin contact, hypoallergenic, and provide long-lasting lubrication. However, they can degrade silicone sex toys and may leave a residue on the skin.
Oil: Oil-based lubricants, such as those made from natural oils like coconut or mineral oil, can moisturise and provide long-lasting lubrication. However, they are not recommended for use with latex condoms as they can weaken them, increasing the risk of breakage. Additionally, oil-based lubes may stain fabrics and be more challenging to clean up than water-based or silicone-based options.
What is the best lube for menopause?
According to My Menopause Centre, any of the three bases are fine to use during menopause, as it’s about what works best for you. However, experts recommend using one that doesn’t have any added extras such as a tingling element or cooling or warming effect, as this can risk causing irritation, which is already a concern during menopause.
“Changes in hormone levels can disrupt the balance of vaginal bacteria, heightening the risk of vaginal infections,” Dr Rajani warns.
What are the benefits of using lube?
Combatting dryness
Using lube reduces friction, lowering the risk of injury or irritation during sex or masturbation. Not only does it help for easier insertion but it keeps things more comfortable and enjoyable throughout.
Enhancing pleasure
Lubes have great practical benefits, but they are also a great option for enhancing pleasure. As well as minimising friction, they can heighten sensation, thus replacing any unwanted pain with pleasure.
Helping condom application
Applying a layer of lube before putting on a condom can help reduce any unwanted discomfort. “[It also] decreases the likelihood of breakage or slipping off, thereby enhancing protection against STIs,” says Dr Rajani.
Always make sure to use a water-based or silicone lubricant with latex condoms. Do not use an oil-based formula as this will weaken the latex.
With this in mind, let’s slide into our recommendations...
Sexual wellness brand Roam developed this lube with pleasure front of mind. It recognised that the body’s natural lubrication can change for a variety of reasons, from your menstrual cycle to the food and drink you consume. That's why it developed the Front lube, which you can keep on standby in your bedside drawer for whenever you need it.
It’s enriched with nourishing ingredients including agave, aloe vera and jojoba, and doesn’t leave any sticky or greasy residue. The subtle, deep-red packaging also ensures a sensual experience from the get-go.
Key specifications
| Size | 50ml |
|---|---|
| Type | Water-based |
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Good for all-natural ingredients
Oomf All-Natural Lube
This lube is free from any harsh ingredients such as fragrances, parabens or alcohol, all of which can affect the natural pH of your vagina. It’s also infused with hemp oil, which the brand claims has a relaxing and calming effect where it counts.
It’s water-based and doesn’t leave behind any residue, so you don’t have to worry about any unwanted stains on the sheets. Put some Oomf into it.
Key specifications
| Size | 50ml |
|---|---|
| Type | Water-based |
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Former face of Britpop, Meg Matthews is the woman behind Megs Menopause. She created the skincare, supplement and intimate care brand to support and empower women going through menopause after her own “dreadful” experience where she struggled to get the help she needed.
This lube is designed to mimic the body’s natural lubrication to ease any discomfort caused by vaginal dryness during menopause. The formula is also enriched with glabra root extract, which is used to calm irritated skin. We’re fans of the chic packaging, too.
Key specifications
| Size | 100ml |
|---|---|
| Type | Oil-based |
Specifically developed for those experiencing vaginal dryness during perimenopause or menopause, this unique balm uses all-natural ingredients to offer gentle relief from irritation. Nourishing avocado oil and sea buckhorn work to promote elasticity and soothe any inflammation.
Simply take about half a teaspoon and apply externally whenever you need a bit of extra relief or before getting intimate.
Key specifications
| Size | 50ml |
|---|---|
| Type | Oil based (so not safe to use with latex condoms or toys) |
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Good vaginal moisturiser
Replens Long Lasting Vaginal Moisturiser
Now 22% Off
This hormone-free moisturiser from Replens promises to replenish vaginal moisture for up to three days. It works to supplement the body’s natural lubrication to alleviate any irritation or discomfort caused by dryness.
You can choose from a set of 6 single-use prefilled applicators, or a 35g tube, which allows for up to 12 applications. Either way, you simply insert and squeeze for immediate relief.
Its main purpose is to tackle dryness, whether that’s inside or outside the bedroom. The brand recommends a fresh application a couple of hours before intercourse, and regular use can help with longer lasting moisture so you can enjoy those more spontaneous moments.
Key specifications
| Size | 35ml tube or 6 applicators |
|---|---|
| Type | Water-based |
Brand founder and physiotherapist Claire Osterstock specialises in managing pelvic pain in women, and wanted to develop a product that didn’t just ease discomfort during intercourse but can also be as a vaginal moisturiser, a massage oil and a body moisturiser.
An all-natural product, it only contains two ingredients: Extra virgin olive oil thanks to its high antioxidant content and antibacterial and antifungal properties; and beeswax, which acts as a natural thickener ad boasts anti-inflammatory properties.
Key specifications
| Size | 55ml |
|---|---|
| Type | Oil-based |
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Designed by women, for women, the brand behind this oil and plant-based lubricant takes female health seriously. It's enriched with nourishing ingredients such as organic shea butter and almond oil for a smooth glide, as well as vitamin E to act as a natural preservative, all without compromising the health of your vagina.
Not only is this lubricant designed for intimacy, but it can also be used as an emollient for those affected by dryness during cycling, swimming, or even sitting down for periods. It creates a protective layer that eases friction and soreness. Yes please.
Key specifications
| Size | 140ml |
|---|---|
| Type | Oil-based |
Dr. Hedieh and Hasti Asadi are sisters and the co-founders of DeoDoc. They were frustrated with the intimate products on the market that did not provide a solution. So they, alongside a team of gynacologists and female doctors with women's health in the forefront, created products to improve women's intimate health.
This silicone-based, hypoallergenic and fragrance-free formula sets to enhance pleasure, without compromising stable pH levels.
Key specifications
| Size | 30ml |
|---|---|
| Type | Silicone-based |
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Organic, fragrance-free, and hypoallergenic, this water-based lube from Maude will have you feeling good from the inside out. It won’t compromise the health down below either, thanks to the pH-balanced formula, which supports your vagina’s natural levels.
It’s also aloe vera based, which makes it naturally hydrating and cooling – just think of it as a refreshing drink for your downstairs. It has a gel-like consistency at first, before breaking down into a silky coating, minus any grease or stickiness.
Key specifications
| Size | 140ml |
|---|---|
| Type | Aloe vera and water-based |
Durex has gone the extra mile to ensure you won’t experience any irritation with its extra sensitive lube. Developed with 100% natural ingredients, it eases vaginal dryness while being gentle on the skin. Not only is it kind to skin, but at under £10, it’s gentle on your bank balance too.
Key specifications
| Size | 100ml |
|---|---|
| Type | Water-based |
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Good water-based lube
Lovehoney Enjoy Water-based Lubricant
As one of the biggest names in the industry, Lovehoney knows a thing or two about sex-ccessories, and its bestselling water-based lube is a power player in the market. This is also one instance where bigger is definitely better. You get 250ml in a bottle, which means there’s no fear of running dry in a hurry.
The water-based formula is a great option for adding extra glide, and the squeezy bottle makes for easy application.
Key specifications
| Size | 250ml |
|---|---|
| Type | Water-based |
No, this isn’t a fancy bottle of perfume or whisky. It is in fact Lelo’s newly developed water-based lubricant, which helps create a silky-not-sticky experience, whether partnered or solo. From the design to the formula, this product oozes sleekness.
It doesn’t contain any parabens or glycerine, which can cause irritation, making it a great option for those with sensitive skin. You can also use it with a condom, making it a safe, effective lube for increasing moisture.
Key specifications
| Size | 100ml |
|---|---|
| Type | Water-based |
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This massage-lube bundle is a great option for couples. Each water-soluble gel provides instant and gentle hydration, while using different hero ingredients, from aloe vera to ylang ylang, to arouse and awaken the senses.
Start off with an intimate massage and see where the mood takes you.
Key specifications
| Size | 200ml per bottle |
|---|---|
| Type | Water-based with aloe vera extract |
Can’t decide whether to go for tingling or cooling? Why choose? Instead, try this gift set from Bondara, which has five different options to try.
These include a classic water-based lube; the Delay Lubricant, which works to gently desensitise the penis to delay premature ejaculation, without compromising on pleasure; and a cooling, menthol lube that delivers a tingling sensation. Surprise your other half with this great gifting option, treat yourself instead.
Key specifications
| Size | 4 x 150ml, 1 x 100ml |
|---|---|
| Type | Water-based |
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This lube from Durex creates a warming sensation and increases blood flow to the clitoris to help you achieve faster, more powerful climaxes.
Despite its warming effects, it won’t leave you stinging, as the brand states the formula is dermatologically tested to be kind and gentle to your skin. For heightened pleasure, you can blow on the area after application to increase the sensation. Now that takes getting hot and heavy to the next level.
Key specification
| Size | 100ml |
|---|---|
| Type | Water-based |
Madeleine Evans
Lifestyle Writer
Madeleine is our Lifestyle Writer, specialising in expert-tested reviews and round-ups on the latest beauty Beauty and products. From skincare to protein powders, Maddie is committed to providing honest and helpful reviews to help guide readers to the best product for them. Maddie has a BA in English Literature and Language, which stemmed from her lifelong interest in reading and writing. She started her post graduate life at Hearst UK within a marketing capacity, which quickly turned into a desire to fulfil a writing career.
When she is not writing about the latest expert reviewed products, you can find her rifling through vintage shops or car boots, reading a print magazine, or capturing portraits on her film camera.
