If you’re a vagina owner, you know that using the wrong intimate product can go downhill very quickly. This is very true of personal lubricants. Finding the best lube for sensitive skin can seem impossible when there are so many different lubes to choose from. The last thing you want to worry about is your skin becoming irritated when you're being intimate with yourself or with a partner – or even a yeast infection!
Today, we share with you how lube affects the skin, the best lube for sensitive skin, and things you must consider when choosing the best lube.
So, What is Lube?
Lube, also known as a personal lubricant, is a gel or liquid that helps prevent friction or discomfort during intercourse. You can use it for many different sexual acts such as self-pleasure, partnered sex, and vaginal or anal sex. There is also sex-toy-specific lube for when you’re exploring silicone pleasure products.
No matter what you’re getting up to, lube helps make things more comfortable and enjoyable.
How Does Lube Affect the Skin?
Lucky Sekhon, MD, a fertility specialist and board-certified OB/GYN in New York City, explains "that the skin of the vagina and vulva is the most sensitive skin on the body—whatever you put down there is going to absorb faster than other body parts."
The function of lube is to add moisture, but if you're using the wrong kind of lube or you have sensitive skin, the opposite is going to happen, and you might deal with irritated skin.
Gynecologists Recommend Lube for Sensitive Skin
According to gynecologists, aloe vera is ideal for those with sensitive skin. Additives like soothing vitamin E are also recommended.
Dr Celestine says, "What's great is that many brands now are recognizing the importance of a safe lube that works for most women. And also, believe it or not, there are actual guidelines for lubricants set forth by the World Health Organization (WHO) and Food & Drug Administration (FDA); lubricants are classified as medical devices by the FDA.”
So, if you have sensitive skin, ensure the lube, or lube ingredients you choose are approved by the FDA.
Different Types of Lube
There are different types of lube: silicone-based, oil-based, water-based, and hybrid-based (a combination of silicone and water).
Now, if you have sensitive skin, water-based lube will be the best option. This is because water is the main ingredient, making it less likely to cause you irritation.
How to Choose the Best Lube for Sensitive Skin
Here's some tips, what to look for, what to avoid when it comes to choosing the best lube for sensitive folks!
#1 Look for Hydrating Ingredients
Dealing with sensitive skin is not easy, babe. That's why you will need to look for a lube that is moisturizing but won't cause irritation.
Look for a lube that has the following hydrating ingredients:
- Hyaluronic acid
- Tocopherol (Vitamin E)
- Aloe Vera Extract (Soothing and hydrating)
#2 Buy a Small Bottle of Lube and Test it
Start small. It doesn't matter how clean the formula of a lube is; it can still cause irritation if you have sensitive skin. So, buy a small bottle and do a patch test on your arm or leg and see how your skin reacts to the product. If your skin responds well to the lube and it doesn't cause any irritation, then buy a bigger bottle.
#3 Avoid Lubricants That Contain Alcohol, Flavorings, or Perfumes.
These ingredients can increase the risk of vaginal infection as well as the risk of your delicate vaginal tissue becoming irritated. It can also alter the vaginal microbiome.
Other ingredients to avoid that are possible to cause infection or irritation include the following:
- Parabens
- Glycerin
- Nonoxynol-9 Spermicide (But contact your doctor about birth control options.)
- Synthetic Fragrances
- Flavorings
- Essential Oils
#4 Look for pH balanced formulas
If you’re a vulva owner, you may want to consider the pH of your lube. The vagina is slightly acidic, so if you’re regularly using lube that is not balanced for this environment can cause some issues. This is especially true if you are prone to yeast infection. The delicate pH balance of the vagina allows it to be a self managing system, but if the area lacks that natural acidity then bacteria or yeast can begin to thrive. So, for vaginal health, opt for a lube that is a pH balance of 4 to 5.
The Best Lube for Sensitive Skin
As we mentioned earlier, water-based lube is the best option to choose if you have sensitive skin as the main ingredient is water, and therefore, it's less likely to irritate. XOXO water-based lube is the best lube you can choose for your sensitive skin. It is a lube that you can use every day.
This water-based lube is made with aloe vera and mimics natural lubrication so you can enjoy your intimate moments without worrying about friction, residue, or stickiness.
Special Features of XOXO Lube
Xoxo contains the following features that make it special:
- It is vegan and cruelty-free.
- It is pH-balanced.
- It is aloe and water-based.
- Fragrance-free and paraben-free.
XOXO Lube Ingredients
XOXO contains the following ingredients and benefits.
- Aloe Extract - It has natural hydrating and soothing properties.
- Water - Good ole' purified water.
- Sodium Hyaluronate - Retains moisture.
- Agar - Makes application smooth and effortless.
- Hydroxyethyl Cellulose - Has a velvety, silky feel when applied.
- Propylene Glycol - Enhances comfort and pleasure with its long-lasting moisture.
- Xanthan Gum - Ensures a consistent glide.
- Lactic Acid - Helps maintain an optimal PH balance.
- Potassium Sorbate - Keeping the lube fresh for every use.
- Caprylhydroxamic Acid - Ensures a fresh and pure experience every time.
Why is XOXO the Best Lube for Sensitive Skin
XOXO is the best lube for the following reasons:
- It has moisturizing ingredients that enhance your pleasure as well as nourish your skin.
- The locking pump design of the lube bottle is perfect, as you can use it with one hand.
- It's safe to use with silicone sex toys. (Don't use silicone lube with toys!)
- It's formulated to be kind to sensitive skin.
How to Use XOXO Lubricant
If you want to know how to use this water-based lube, follow the steps below.
- Apply the lube directly onto your sex toy, fingertips, or partner.
- You can add an additional amount to your intimate areas for more comfort and pleasure.
- It can also be used as a vulva moisturizer if you're experiencing dryness or discomfort.
Final Thoughts on Best Lube for Sensitive Skin
Finding the perfect lube for your sensitive skin can feel like an endless battle. But it doesn't have to be! Choosing a water-based lube is the solution to sensitive and fussy skin. When you're choosing a lube, look for ingredients that have hydrating ingredients and don't contain alcohol or perfumes. Another tip is to first buy a small bottle of the lube and do a patch test to see how your skin reacts to it.
The XOXO water-based aloe lube is the best lube for the job. It is a lube that you can use daily as it mimics natural lubrication and ensures that your most intimate moments are comfortable and enjoyable. It is a must-have!
Treat yourself to a lube that works for your sensitive skin. You deserve to experience pleasure without irritation.
