Personal lubricant
Encyclopedia
Personal lubricants are specialized lubricant
s to reduce friction between body parts, or between body parts and other objects. They are used during sexual acts (such as intercourse
and masturbation
), to reduce friction
with the penis
, vagina
, anus
, or other body parts, and also for medical purposes such as introduction of a catheter
.
Water-based personal lubricants are water-soluble and are the most-used such lubricants. The earliest water-based lubricants were cellulose ether or glycerin solutions. Lubricants containing glycerin may promote or exacerbate vaginal yeast infections in persons who are susceptible. Subsequent products have added various agents for spreading, water retention, and resistance to contamination. The viscosity
of these products can be adjusted by changing their water content and concentration of cellulose (or other gel-forming hydrophilic ingredient). They have a tendency to dry out during use, but reapplication of lubricant or application of water is often sufficient to reactivate them.
Because water-based personal lubricants absorb into the skin and evaporate, they eventually dry out, leaving the residue derived from the other ingredients in the formulation. In particular, sugar (or glycerin) and other chemicals and preservatives create a sticky residue and associated sensation, often associated with an unpleasant taste and smell, requiring reapplication, or removal of the residue with water. Newer water-based lubricants are formulated with natural skin moisturizers such as carrageenan
, and do not leave a sticky residue after evaporation. Carrageenan in some formulations has been shown to be a potent inhibitor of human papillomavirus
infection in vitro.
A formulation of polyethylene glycol
mixed with sugars and originally intended for veterinary use is popular for sexual activities involving large insertions.
Typical water-based lubricants are incompatible with many sex acts that occur in water (such as in a bathtub, pool, or hot tub) as they can be dissolved or dispersed in water.
Some water-based lubricants, particularly those containing polyquaternium
-15, may actually facilitate HIV
infection and increase its rate of replication, especially when used without a condom.
women, and women with vulvodynia
(inflammation of the vulvar nerves that can cause burning, stinging, rawness, itching, etc.), have experienced irritation with over-the-counter (OTC) lubricants.
Oil-based lubricants are most appropriate for women in relationships not requiring condom use who are experiencing anything from minor irritations to chronic disease states (such as vulvodynia and vestibulitis) that can be caused or flared by common additives and preservatives found in other lubricants, like propylene glycol
, parabens
, or glycerin.
Artificial petroleum-based lubricants such as petroleum jelly can increase the likelihood of breakage and slipping of latex condom
s due to loss of elasticity caused by petroleum-derived lubricants.
A fertility lubricant that contains calcium (Ca2+) and magnesium (Mg2+) ions and has an optimal pH and osmolality range better mimics the natural fertile cervical fluids to alleviate the problem of vaginal dryness and to assist couples trying to conceive a baby naturally. The ASRM has published data on at least one fertility lubricant containing calcium and magnesium as safe for use when trying to get pregnant.
For couples trying to conceive, it is important to choose a lubricant carefully. Most personal lubricants, including saliva or water, can damage sperm and keep them from swimming normally, and should not be used if pregnancy is the objective.
, the first certified organic personal lubricant labeled with the USDA organic seal was Nude Personal Lubricant, which was created in 2004 by Applied Organics. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates lubricant as a medical device rather than as a cosmetic. Because of strict FDA guidelines for medical devices, Buddy Morel said his company was told its product could not carry a USDA seal for Nude Personal Lubricant, and that it should be very careful about using the term organic anywhere on its label.
Silicone-based lubricants are usually not recommended for use with sex toys or other products that are made from silicone
because the formula will usually dissolve the surface making it sticky to the touch, and excess may cause disintegration of the item over time. In most cases a warning is listed on the product label. At least one manufacturer claims their silicone-based lubricant is safe for use with silicone products. Silicone-based lubricant is also used in the manufacture of pre-lubricated condoms, due to the long-lasting properties and superior latex compatibility.
s cause a sensation of warmth. Breathing on these types of lubricants can increase the effect. Some lubricants are flavored to enhance oral contact.
, an anesthetic. However, the use of any numbing agent for anal penetration is not recommended as a lack of sensation makes accidental injury more likely. In addition, benzocaine can cause an allergic reaction in those with an allergy to PABA (4-Aminobenzoic acid
). In addition, some anal lubricants are not anesthetic but are conveniently packaged for ease of application. Many of these products such as Astroglide Shooters have been pulled from the market recently due to FDA Medical Device Requirements. Products containing benzocaine will numb all body parts with which they come in contact.
-based for durability and quality of sensation at the expense of latex compatibility. By applying them to the penis, these lubricants can increase the pleasure of masturbation.
s, and the use of enema
nozzles and rectal thermometer
s. The class of lubricants now known as personal derives from surgical lubricants; K-Y Jelly was introduced in 1904 for this purpose.
, dildo
, vagina
, or anus
before or during activity. Personal lubricants are particularly useful for intercourse when a partner experiences dryness or excessive contraction of the anus or vagina. Anal sex generally requires more generous application of lubricant since the anus does not have natural lubrication sufficient for most sexual activity.
Nonoxynol-9
, a spermicidal detergent contained in some lubricants, is an irritant and can cause micro-tears which may increase the rate of HIV transmission and HPV infection. Spermicidally lubricated condoms do not contain enough spermicide to increase contraceptive effectiveness, but application of separate spermicide is thought to reduce pregnancy rates significantly.
s. Lubricant that is safe for sexual intercourse
is also safe for masturbation.
, the character Paul, played by Marlon Brando
, uses butter
during anal sex with the character Jeanne played by Maria Schneider
.
Lubricant
A lubricant is a substance introduced to reduce friction between moving surfaces. It may also have the function of transporting foreign particles and of distributing heat...
s to reduce friction between body parts, or between body parts and other objects. They are used during sexual acts (such as intercourse
Sexual intercourse
Sexual intercourse, also known as copulation or coitus, commonly refers to the act in which a male's penis enters a female's vagina for the purposes of sexual pleasure or reproduction. The entities may be of opposite sexes, or they may be hermaphroditic, as is the case with snails...
and masturbation
Masturbation
Masturbation refers to sexual stimulation of a person's own genitals, usually to the point of orgasm. The stimulation can be performed manually, by use of objects or tools, or by some combination of these methods. Masturbation is a common form of autoeroticism...
), to reduce friction
Friction
Friction is the force resisting the relative motion of solid surfaces, fluid layers, and/or material elements sliding against each other. There are several types of friction:...
with the penis
Penis
The penis is a biological feature of male animals including both vertebrates and invertebrates...
, vagina
Vagina
The vagina is a fibromuscular tubular tract leading from the uterus to the exterior of the body in female placental mammals and marsupials, or to the cloaca in female birds, monotremes, and some reptiles. Female insects and other invertebrates also have a vagina, which is the terminal part of the...
, anus
Anus
The anus is an opening at the opposite end of an animal's digestive tract from the mouth. Its function is to control the expulsion of feces, unwanted semi-solid matter produced during digestion, which, depending on the type of animal, may be one or more of: matter which the animal cannot digest,...
, or other body parts, and also for medical purposes such as introduction of a catheter
Catheter
In medicine, a catheter is a tube that can be inserted into a body cavity, duct, or vessel. Catheters thereby allow drainage, administration of fluids or gases, or access by surgical instruments. The process of inserting a catheter is catheterization...
.
Water-based
Viscosity
Viscosity is a measure of the resistance of a fluid which is being deformed by either shear or tensile stress. In everyday terms , viscosity is "thickness" or "internal friction". Thus, water is "thin", having a lower viscosity, while honey is "thick", having a higher viscosity...
of these products can be adjusted by changing their water content and concentration of cellulose (or other gel-forming hydrophilic ingredient). They have a tendency to dry out during use, but reapplication of lubricant or application of water is often sufficient to reactivate them.
Because water-based personal lubricants absorb into the skin and evaporate, they eventually dry out, leaving the residue derived from the other ingredients in the formulation. In particular, sugar (or glycerin) and other chemicals and preservatives create a sticky residue and associated sensation, often associated with an unpleasant taste and smell, requiring reapplication, or removal of the residue with water. Newer water-based lubricants are formulated with natural skin moisturizers such as carrageenan
Carrageenan
Carrageenans or carrageenins are a family of linear sulfated polysaccharides that are extracted from red seaweeds. There are several varieties of carrageen used in cooking and baking. Kappa-carrageenan is used mostly in breading and batter due to its gelling nature...
, and do not leave a sticky residue after evaporation. Carrageenan in some formulations has been shown to be a potent inhibitor of human papillomavirus
Human papillomavirus
Human papillomavirus is a member of the papillomavirus family of viruses that is capable of infecting humans. Like all papillomaviruses, HPVs establish productive infections only in keratinocytes of the skin or mucous membranes...
infection in vitro.
A formulation of polyethylene glycol
Polyethylene glycol
Polyethylene glycol is a polyether compound with many applications from industrial manufacturing to medicine. It has also been known as polyethylene oxide or polyoxyethylene , depending on its molecular weight, and under the tradename Carbowax.-Available forms:PEG, PEO, or POE refers to an...
mixed with sugars and originally intended for veterinary use is popular for sexual activities involving large insertions.
Typical water-based lubricants are incompatible with many sex acts that occur in water (such as in a bathtub, pool, or hot tub) as they can be dissolved or dispersed in water.
Some water-based lubricants, particularly those containing polyquaternium
Polyquaternium
Polyquaternium is the International Nomenclature for Cosmetic Ingredients designation for several polycationic polymers that are used in the personal care industry. Polyquaternium is a neologism used to emphasize the presence of quaternary ammonium centers in the polymer. INCI has approved at...
-15, may actually facilitate HIV
HIV
Human immunodeficiency virus is a lentivirus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome , a condition in humans in which progressive failure of the immune system allows life-threatening opportunistic infections and cancers to thrive...
infection and increase its rate of replication, especially when used without a condom.
Oil-based
Many women, especially perimenopausal women, menopausalMenopause
Menopause is a term used to describe the permanent cessation of the primary functions of the human ovaries: the ripening and release of ova and the release of hormones that cause both the creation of the uterine lining and the subsequent shedding of the uterine lining...
women, and women with vulvodynia
Vulvodynia
Vulvodynia is a chronic pain syndrome that affects the vulvar area and occurs without an identifiable cause or visible pathology categorized in the ICD-9 group 625—specifically ICD-9 625.7, which is for pain and other disorders of the female genital organs...
(inflammation of the vulvar nerves that can cause burning, stinging, rawness, itching, etc.), have experienced irritation with over-the-counter (OTC) lubricants.
Oil-based lubricants are most appropriate for women in relationships not requiring condom use who are experiencing anything from minor irritations to chronic disease states (such as vulvodynia and vestibulitis) that can be caused or flared by common additives and preservatives found in other lubricants, like propylene glycol
Propylene glycol
Propylene glycol, also called 1,2-propanediol or propane-1,2-diol, is an organic compound with formula C3H8O2 or HO-CH2-CHOH-CH3...
, parabens
Parabens
Parabens are a class of chemicals widely used as preservatives in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. Parabens are effective preservatives in many types of formulas. These compounds, and their salts, are used primarily for their bactericidal and fungicidal properties...
, or glycerin.
Artificial petroleum-based lubricants such as petroleum jelly can increase the likelihood of breakage and slipping of latex condom
Condom
A condom is a barrier device most commonly used during sexual intercourse to reduce the probability of pregnancy and spreading sexually transmitted diseases . It is put on a man's erect penis and physically blocks ejaculated semen from entering the body of a sexual partner...
s due to loss of elasticity caused by petroleum-derived lubricants.
Fertility lubricants
Fertility lubricants, also known as sperm-friendly lubricants, are formulated to be safe for use by couples who are trying to conceive. Fertility lubricants are pH and electrolyte-balanced and have a specific osmolality range that is safe for sperm. In addition to having the correct pH and osmolality range, fertility lubricants should be free of chemicals that can harm sperm. Fertility lubricants are non-spermicidal and do not harm viability or motility of human sperm.A fertility lubricant that contains calcium (Ca2+) and magnesium (Mg2+) ions and has an optimal pH and osmolality range better mimics the natural fertile cervical fluids to alleviate the problem of vaginal dryness and to assist couples trying to conceive a baby naturally. The ASRM has published data on at least one fertility lubricant containing calcium and magnesium as safe for use when trying to get pregnant.
For couples trying to conceive, it is important to choose a lubricant carefully. Most personal lubricants, including saliva or water, can damage sperm and keep them from swimming normally, and should not be used if pregnancy is the objective.
Organic
In the United StatesUnited States
The United States of America is a federal constitutional republic comprising fifty states and a federal district...
, the first certified organic personal lubricant labeled with the USDA organic seal was Nude Personal Lubricant, which was created in 2004 by Applied Organics. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates lubricant as a medical device rather than as a cosmetic. Because of strict FDA guidelines for medical devices, Buddy Morel said his company was told its product could not carry a USDA seal for Nude Personal Lubricant, and that it should be very careful about using the term organic anywhere on its label.
Silicone-based
Silicone-based lubricants are usually formulated with fewer than four ingredients and do not contain any water component. Silicone lubricants offer a different feeling to personal lubricants that contain water. Silicone-based lubricants are not absorbed by skin or mucus membranes, and consequently last longer than water-based lubricants. Many different silicone lubricants are commercially available with varying quality and performance. Not all silicone-based lubricants are certified latex-safe, but silicone-based lubricants may more effectively prevent HIV transmission during anal intercourse, as compared to water-based lubricants.Silicone-based lubricants are usually not recommended for use with sex toys or other products that are made from silicone
Silicone
Silicones are inert, synthetic compounds with a variety of forms and uses. Typically heat-resistant and rubber-like, they are used in sealants, adhesives, lubricants, medical applications , cookware, and insulation....
because the formula will usually dissolve the surface making it sticky to the touch, and excess may cause disintegration of the item over time. In most cases a warning is listed on the product label. At least one manufacturer claims their silicone-based lubricant is safe for use with silicone products. Silicone-based lubricant is also used in the manufacture of pre-lubricated condoms, due to the long-lasting properties and superior latex compatibility.
Specialty lubricants
Warming lubricantWarming lubricant
Warming lubricant is a personal lubricant with the warming effect created due to added ingredients. The warming thermoception is achieved on the contact with skin or by natural body moisture....
s cause a sensation of warmth. Breathing on these types of lubricants can increase the effect. Some lubricants are flavored to enhance oral contact.
Anal-specific
Many lubricants are safe for anal sex, but there are products that are specifically designed to enhance enjoyment of anal sex. Often, this is simply a thicker gel rather than a liquid. This thicker consistency is preferred because it helps the lubricant stay in place. Some lubricants contain benzocaineBenzocaine
Benzocaine is a local anesthetic commonly used as a topical pain reliever, or in cough drops. It is the active ingredient in many over-the-counter anesthetic ointments...
, an anesthetic. However, the use of any numbing agent for anal penetration is not recommended as a lack of sensation makes accidental injury more likely. In addition, benzocaine can cause an allergic reaction in those with an allergy to PABA (4-Aminobenzoic acid
4-Aminobenzoic acid
4-Aminobenzoic acid is an organic compound with the formula H2NC6H4CO2H. PABA is a white grey crystalline substance that is only slightly soluble in water...
). In addition, some anal lubricants are not anesthetic but are conveniently packaged for ease of application. Many of these products such as Astroglide Shooters have been pulled from the market recently due to FDA Medical Device Requirements. Products containing benzocaine will numb all body parts with which they come in contact.
Male-masturbation-specific
Some lubricants are designed specifically for male masturbation. Many of these are lipidLipid
Lipids constitute a broad group of naturally occurring molecules that include fats, waxes, sterols, fat-soluble vitamins , monoglycerides, diglycerides, triglycerides, phospholipids, and others...
-based for durability and quality of sensation at the expense of latex compatibility. By applying them to the penis, these lubricants can increase the pleasure of masturbation.
Medicine
In medicine, personal lubricants can be used for gynecological examinations, digital rectal examinations, the insertion of catheterCatheter
In medicine, a catheter is a tube that can be inserted into a body cavity, duct, or vessel. Catheters thereby allow drainage, administration of fluids or gases, or access by surgical instruments. The process of inserting a catheter is catheterization...
s, and the use of enema
Enema
An enema is the procedure of introducing liquids into the rectum and colon via the anus. The increasing volume of the liquid causes rapid expansion of the lower intestinal tract, often resulting in very uncomfortable bloating, cramping, powerful peristalsis, a feeling of extreme urgency and...
nozzles and rectal thermometer
Medical thermometer
Medical thermometers are used for measuring human body temperature, with the tip of the thermometer being inserted either into the mouth under the tongue , under the armpit , or into the rectum via the anus .-Liquid-filled:The traditional thermometer is a glass tube with a bulb at one end...
s. The class of lubricants now known as personal derives from surgical lubricants; K-Y Jelly was introduced in 1904 for this purpose.
Sexual intercourse
A lubricant can be used to increase pleasure and reduce pain during sexual activity and may be used for lubricating the penisPenis
The penis is a biological feature of male animals including both vertebrates and invertebrates...
, dildo
Dildo
A dildo is a sex toy, often explicitly phallic in appearance, intended for bodily penetration during masturbation or sex with partners.- Description and uses :...
, vagina
Vagina
The vagina is a fibromuscular tubular tract leading from the uterus to the exterior of the body in female placental mammals and marsupials, or to the cloaca in female birds, monotremes, and some reptiles. Female insects and other invertebrates also have a vagina, which is the terminal part of the...
, or anus
Anus
The anus is an opening at the opposite end of an animal's digestive tract from the mouth. Its function is to control the expulsion of feces, unwanted semi-solid matter produced during digestion, which, depending on the type of animal, may be one or more of: matter which the animal cannot digest,...
before or during activity. Personal lubricants are particularly useful for intercourse when a partner experiences dryness or excessive contraction of the anus or vagina. Anal sex generally requires more generous application of lubricant since the anus does not have natural lubrication sufficient for most sexual activity.
Nonoxynol-9
Nonoxynol-9
Nonoxynol-9, sometimes abbreviated as N-9, is an organic compound that is used as a surfactant. It is a member of the nonoxynol family of nonionic surfactants. N-9 and related compounds are ingredients in various cleaning and cosmetic products. It is widely used in contraceptives for its...
, a spermicidal detergent contained in some lubricants, is an irritant and can cause micro-tears which may increase the rate of HIV transmission and HPV infection. Spermicidally lubricated condoms do not contain enough spermicide to increase contraceptive effectiveness, but application of separate spermicide is thought to reduce pregnancy rates significantly.
Masturbation
While males and females both produce various amounts of their own lubrication, it is often desirable to add extra lubrication. A circumcised male masturbating without lubrication can lead to friction burns, blisters, cuts, and calluses. For males there are specific masturbation lubricants that are not suitable for vaginal use or with condomCondom
A condom is a barrier device most commonly used during sexual intercourse to reduce the probability of pregnancy and spreading sexually transmitted diseases . It is put on a man's erect penis and physically blocks ejaculated semen from entering the body of a sexual partner...
s. Lubricant that is safe for sexual intercourse
Sexual intercourse
Sexual intercourse, also known as copulation or coitus, commonly refers to the act in which a male's penis enters a female's vagina for the purposes of sexual pleasure or reproduction. The entities may be of opposite sexes, or they may be hermaphroditic, as is the case with snails...
is also safe for masturbation.
Other
Other products that have been used as personal lubricants include vegetable shortening, which is durable and inexpensive but damaging to latex. In a controversial scene in the movie Last Tango in ParisLast Tango in Paris
Last Tango in Paris is a 1972 Italian romantic drama film directed by Bernardo Bertolucci which portrays a recent American widower who takes up an anonymous sexual relationship with a young, soon-to-be-married Parisian woman...
, the character Paul, played by Marlon Brando
Marlon Brando
Marlon Brando, Jr. was an American movie star and political activist. "Unchallenged as the most important actor in modern American Cinema" according to the St...
, uses butter
Butter
Butter is a dairy product made by churning fresh or fermented cream or milk. It is generally used as a spread and a condiment, as well as in cooking applications, such as baking, sauce making, and pan frying...
during anal sex with the character Jeanne played by Maria Schneider
Maria Schneider (actress)
Maria Schneider was a French actress. She was best known for playing Jeanne, opposite Marlon Brando, in the 1972 film Last Tango in Paris.-Career:...
.
Some personal lubricants
- AstroglideAstroglideAstroglide is a brand of personal lubricant manufactured by BioFilm Inc of Vista, California.The inventors of Astroglide, Daniel Wray and Erich Drafahl, formulated it while working on the cooling system of a space shuttle at Edwards Air Force Base in 1977. This association with aerospace was...
- ID LubricantsID LubricantsID Lubricants is a brand of personal lubricants by Westridge Laboratories, Inc. The company, located in Orange County, California, USA, started producing personal lubricants in 1993.-Products:...
- K-Y JellyK-Y JellyK-Y Jelly is a water-based, water-soluble personal lubricant produced by Johnson & Johnson. According to the company, "The origins of the brand name 'K-Y' are unknown...