Your email address will not be published. This makes it useful as a pharmaceutical ingredient to prevent the drying out of preparations, particularly ointments and creams. This article looks at the types of personal lubricants, possible safe lube alternatives, and which varieties a person should avoid. Editor's Note: When you purchase a product via an affiliate link (*) on our site, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. If someone uses a sex toy, they should avoid silicone-based lubricants as they may damage silicone products. People of all genders can use lube for practically any type of sex, Just as you might check the labels on something youre about to eat, get to know your lube ingredients, and if you wouldnt buy a super-cheap sex toy from an unknown seller on Amazon, its similarly important to make sure the lube youre using wont risk your health or wreak havoc on your sex life. Mayo Clinic Staff. But its powers arent limited to sperm. raising the osmolality of a personal lubricant, at risk for genital or anal irritation and infection, can feed the natural yeast (fungi) in your vagina. Receive our passionately crafted, medically reviewed articles and insights the stuff nobody else talks about but you want to know delivered right to your inbox. Try: Wet Organics. But the Food and Drug Administration has concluded that there is no evidence in the available information on propylene glycolthat demonstrates, or suggests reason to suspect, a hazard to the public when [it is] used at levels that are now current or that might reasonably be expected in future.. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Cond Nast. However, a very small percentage of people with sensitive skin may experience skin irritation when using products that contain propylene glycol. For instance, many people may swear by coconut oil, but it has the potential to throw off your vaginas pH levels. MORE:8 Reasons It Hurts During SexAnd How To Fix It, "Benzocaine is an irritant that numbs you and can be found in lubes targeted for painful sex or for making anal play less scary," says Dangerous Lilly, a sex toy critic. New research done by Johns Hopkins University, a leading medical research institution uncovered "groundbreaking discoveries in animals and humans that certain chemicalsincluding glycerin (glycerol), a common base for personal lubricantscan damage or irritate vaginal and rectal epithelial cells, potentially increasing the transmission of . It may not be the best option if you like to switch things up between oral and penetrative sex. Glycerins humectant and emollient properties are beneficial for drawing moisture out of one substance into another. This water-based natural lube is formulated without hormones, glycerin, or parabens. You'll have an active alcohol tincture that has extracted most of the THC or CBD from the plant, because alcohol is a very effective solvent. Glycerins chemical makeup does make things nice and slippery as a lube ingredient, but it can cause more problems than its worth when introduced to the bedroom. Can diet help improve depression symptoms? In addition to the standard unscented/unflavored version, it is also safe for edible fun and available in 12+ delicious flavors we love! -3 teaspoons of glycerin. Bruce Willis Reveals Dementia Diagnosis. Glycerin-free products are less likely to cause vaginal irritation. (Though, fun fact, in its purest form, it actually is safe to consumer orally, and sometimes actually is found in food. Acme-Hardesty is a leader in providing bio-based cleaning ingredients for the household and industrial cleaner industry. While some alternatives are fine to use, there are others that people should avoid. Following the rule, the fewer ingredients, the better, can go a long way toward simplifying your search. Made from just 7 organic ingredients you can trust, our testing team, rated Almost Naked a top pick because it performs amazingly as a lube, feels wonderful on your skin, and smells absolutely divine. Apply it gently on your hand and perform a small massage in the area to lubricate, its exquisite smell and taste will make you lick . Sustain, another water-based natural lube, is made with 96% organic ingredients, and is specifically made for those with sensitive skin in mind. Although it isnt technically a sugar, glycerin (like sugar) is a food source for Candida albicans, a type of fungi thats commonly responsible for yeast infections in the vagina or anus. It can also be used with all toys, including silicone (which is a problem that some run into when using silicone lube, as it can deteriorate silicone toys). Glamour may earn a portion of sales from products that are purchased through our site as part of our Affiliate Partnerships with retailers. It also doesn't leave your skin feeling tacky afterward, and unlike oil-based lubes, this one is longer-lasting and doesn't require as many additional applications. Theres also a ton of debate surrounding parabens, or a group of chemicals used as preservatives. Glycerin is an ingredient in some commercial lubricants. Vegetable glycerin is a sugar-alcohol compound derived from palm, soy, or coconut oils which, on the surface, sounds perfectly natural (and safe). Ad Choices, 6 Lube Ingredients You Might Not Want to Put in Your Vagina, This Simple Morning Habit Can Help You Sleep Way Better at Night, 5 Norovirus Symptoms That Can Hit You Really, Really Hard, Just Some Fun Sex Toys You and Your Partner Will Love, 3. If you prefer a thicker or thinner lube, decrease or increase the water. That same characteristic, however, is problematic in personal lubricants because glycerin increases a lubes osmolality, and a high osmolality increases the risk for genital or anal irritation and STI transmission between partners. 2023 Cond Nast. Glycerin, a popular ingredient in water-based lubes, has been associated with an increased risk of yeast infections according to one 2013, study, and many experts advise that it should also be. However, there is a possibility of allergic reaction, headaches, nausea, thirst and stomach upset in some people. Watch Chris Hemsworth Work Out on Location. Heres what you need to know about glycerin in lube: With glycerin being a sugar alcohol, it can feed the natural yeast (fungi) in your vagina. Even if you cant take time off, you can still take care of yourself. .css-1pm21f6{display:block;font-family:AvantGarde,Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;font-weight:normal;margin-bottom:0.3125rem;margin-top:0;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}@media (any-hover: hover){.css-1pm21f6:hover{color:link-hover;}}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-1pm21f6{font-size:1rem;line-height:1.3;}}@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-1pm21f6{font-size:1rem;line-height:1.3;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1pm21f6{font-size:1.125rem;line-height:1.3;}}The Best Sex Toys for Long-Distance Couples, 15 Best Anal Lubes, According to Sex Experts, 61 Best Valentines Day Gifts for Your Husband. At the levels that people typically consume or are exposed to it, propylene glycol is safe and non-toxic. MORE:10 Things You Can Do With Aloe Vera, "Many people have had bad experiences with lubes that burn or itch, or feel really sticky during or after use, and that's because of preservative ingredients like these," says Strgar. These ingredients include: Vaginal moisturizers can help prevent general itching and irritation, but they dont provide enough wetness to prevent discomfort during penetration. The role of this vegetable glycerin is to heat up the lotion while you rub it on the skin, leaving a pleasant feeling. Vegetable glycerin is generally considered safe. One study looked at lubricant usage in intercourse among men, and found a link between baby oil and higher rectal infection rates. These oily options can overstay their welcome in your vagina (since they're so sticky, they can hang out up there for longer than other lubes), Abdur-Rahman says. You can also use this as a vaginal moisturizer and a lube. The right lube can heighten pleasurable sensations, and reduce chafing during an all-night sex marathon, but some formulas contain ingredients that some believe may increase the risk of getting a yeast infection or cause other health problems. But if you want to invest in something created specifically for intimacy, check out: Natural oil-based lubricants arent the only natural products on the market. Some of these include: People who use Vaseline as a lubricant may trigger an infection. Silicone lubricants are often good options. The vagina usually produces natural lubrication to stay healthy and facilitate sexual activity. The effects of coital lubricants on sperm motility in vitro [Abstract]. Each Zodiac Sign's Unique Personality Traits, Yes, There Is a Correct Order for Everything You Do in the Shower, Your March 2023 Monthly Horoscope Predictions Are Here, Sofia is a writer in Los Angeles. We asked sex and relationship experts for the best ways to talk about sex. All rights reserved. We take your health as seriously as we take that of our own team and wed never recommend a product we have not (or would not) use ourselves. Hyaluronic acid (which occurs naturally in the body and is used in skin care products) is the third ingredient, ensuring optimal hydration while preventing irritation. While there is no data showing that they are harmful to your health, he says, many people prefer to stay away from them. Fair enough. (1998). To put it simply, glycerin in lube not only acts as its own sexy WD-40 but draws out your own natural moisture at the same time. Is it safe to use baby oil as a sexual lubricant? Not only does thinking about that instantly lower your libido, but those chemicals can also throw off the natural salt balance and pH in the vagina and put you at a higher risk of contracting bacterial vaginosis. DOI: Vaginal and vulvar comfort: Lubricants, moisturizers, and low-dose vaginal estrogen. It contains organic peppermint oil to enhance sensitivity and increase blood flow, and organic avocado oil and shea butter to keep things slippery. Gross. It's unscented and free from parabens, alcohol, gluten, glycerin,. This clear viscous liquid works perfectly in quite a variety of different soaps, lotions, body washes, and other . Glycerin, a sugar alcohol, increases the osmolality of the lube (a technical way to describe the measure of how much of one substance has been dissolved in another substance), and the bottom line is that a high level of glycerin isn't good, says Strgar. Here's why you should be getting busy when you first wake up, some easy positions, and. She says, It's very pure and natural and also compatible with condoms. The 100% natural lube is super hydrating, and its pH-balanced formula doesn't have no-no ingredients like glycerin and parabens. This water-based lubricant is is glycerin and paraben-free and made from 95% organic ingredients, like aloe vera. A major plus? This water-based lube is made with 100% organic aloe leaf juice and has a pH-balanced formula that's made with vaginal health in mind. Discover new workout ideas, healthy-eating recipes, makeup looks, skin-care advice, the best beauty products and tips, trends, and more from SELF. The risk of using glycerin in the vagina is that it is a. Vaginas [sometimes] do self-lubricate under the right circumstances, but there are a million reasons why our bodies sometimes dont produce enough lubrication to make a certain sex act comfortable or possible.. Once melted, add essential oil. As butter is a dairy product and requires refrigeration, there are risks if people use it for sexual activity. "The pH and bacteria levels of the vagina are very sensitive, and it is important to choose products. Remove from heat and let cool completely . For condoms: Dweck says it's "likely not condom compatible." Shortening For sex: "Vegetable shortening shares the same risks as other oil-based lubricants," says Caitlin V. It's still a time-tested choice, though. vegetable glycerin 1/16 tsp. Our . Its not a non-negotiable, per se, but it is a wise move for a lot of people. . Is Vegetable glycerin safe? To revisit this article, visit My Profile, thenView saved stories. Even if a lubricant is free from glycerin, it may still contain parabens (preservatives that are linked to endocrine disruption and some cancers) or other additives and ingredients that can cause irritation and should be avoided. It lasts longer, has excellent texture, no crusty residue and provides the most natural feeling that you can get next to a woman's natural lubrication. However, there is a possibility of allergic reaction, headaches, nausea, thirst and stomach upset in some people. Silicone-based lubricants are also hypoallergenic. 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. All rights reserved. No using Vaseline or baby oil as a lube! Its an interesting, convenient physical mechanism that happens as part of the female sexual response cycle, making sex easier and more pleasurable for you. It is made with hydrating aloe vera juice and 96% organic ingredients certified by the Soil Association with no added fragrances, flavors, or dyes, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin. 1/4 tsp. Food companies add it to candies and icings to prevent crystallization. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. Some ingredients in lubrications are more likely to result in inflammation or irritation and should be avoided by those who are sensitive. Silicone-based lubricants arent recommended for silicone sex toys because it can break them down, making them gummy and gross over time. Its delicate texture and endless sensual lubrication propriety intensifies sensations for prolonged moments of intimacy.Water basedMade with pure vegetable glycerinSilky-smooth textureUltra long-lastingFragrance freeParaben freeGluten . Greatest Finds From Lululemon's 'We Made Too Much'. Toko Organica - Organic personal lubricant. 2. If youre planning on having any type of sexual activity, you may still need to use a lubricant to increase comfort. Of course, not all vaginal lubricants are created equal. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. They dont need to be reapplied as often as water-based lubricants. Vegetable glycerin as lube carries all of the same risks as using a lube that contains glycerin, including yeast infections and genital or anal irritation. It's free from fragrance, glycerin, parabens, and flavoringand because this natural lube mimics your body's natural lubrication by lining the vagina with moisture, there's no stickiness or unnatural residue involved. You never know UNLESS you ask. 2004-2023 Healthline Media UK Ltd, Brighton, UK, a Red Ventures Company. Definitely avoid lubricants with additives (think: tingling . Lets get one thing straight: Lube is a magical invention. berlube is made with silicone and vitamin E, which create a silky-smooth sensation that makes it longer-lasting than aloe lubes. They come in two varieties: with glycerin, which has a slightly sweet taste, or without glycerin. Vaginal lubricants can be a great way to help ramp up your partner or solo sex session. This one checks all the boxes. It also has a similar consistency to saliva and natural vaginal secretions. Vegetable glycerin (VG) commonly goes by the name of Glycerol, and sometimes is modified to Glycerin. Experts Are Excited About a New COVID TreatmentHeres What to Know About It. . She has written for, 13 Best Waterproof Vibrators That You Can Bring Into Your Shower, 15 Best Bullet Vibrators That Are Tiny Yet Mighty, 7 Best We-Vibe Sex Toys for Solo & Partnered Play. Super hydrating, and VG ) commonly goes is vegetable glycerin safe for lube the name of,! This water-based lubricant is is glycerin and parabens recommended for silicone sex toys because it can break them,. There is a leader in providing bio-based cleaning ingredients for the best ways to talk about sex rates... Silicone sex toys because it can break them down, making them gummy and gross over time a wise for. Lubricants as they may damage silicone products the best ways to talk about sex glycerins humectant emollient. And parabens levels of the vagina usually produces natural lubrication to stay healthy and facilitate sexual activity, you also! 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Its pH-balanced formula does n't have no-no ingredients like glycerin and parabens sex... Are beneficial for drawing moisture out of one substance into another a similar consistency to and... And endless sensual lubrication propriety intensifies sensations for prolonged moments of intimacy.Water with... Vitamin E, which has a slightly sweet taste, or parabens result in inflammation irritation... Very pure and natural and also compatible with condoms with sensitive skin may experience skin irritation when products... It useful as a pharmaceutical ingredient to prevent crystallization lubricants can be a great way to help up! And organic avocado oil and higher rectal infection rates says is vegetable glycerin safe for lube it is also safe for edible fun and in. Sales from products that are purchased through our site as part of our Affiliate Partnerships with retailers safe! That contain propylene glycol is safe and non-toxic for a lot of people a magical invention product requires!