All topics

Everything you need to know about choosing the right lubricant

Published on July 2, 2025 at 8:10

People rarely talk about lubricants, yet they can make a real difference in many people's sex lives. A good lubricant can enhance comfort, pleasure, and overall intimate health. Whether it's to ease penetration, complement the use of toys, relieve vaginal dryness, or explore new sensations, lubricant is a go-to product. It's not complicated to use, and everyone should have one on their nightstand!

In this article, we help you better understand the different types of lubricants, their uses, and how to choose the right one for you to optimize your intimate relationships.

Why use a lubricant?

If you didn't know, lubricant can be useful - even necessary - in several situations:

  • Facilitate penetration (vaginal or anal) and prevent discomfort or micro-tears
  • Explore new practices, such as masturbation or the use of sex toys
  • Reduce friction-related pain and relieve vaginal dryness, which can occur after childbirth, during menopause or as a result of certain medications (antidepressants, contraceptives, hormone treatments, etc.).

Using a lubricant is all about listening to your body, taking care of yourself and your sexual health and pleasure.

Different types of lubricants

Depending on their composition, lubricants can offer different sensations and uses. Here’s a quick guide to help you make a clearer choice.

1. Water-based lubricants

The most widely used, water-based lubricants are versatile and compatible with all condoms and sex toys. They are easy to use and rinse off with minimal effort.

Advantages:

  • Suitable for all types of intercourse
  • Easy to clean
  • Can be used with condoms and sex toys

Disadvantages:

  • They evaporate more quickly, sometimes requiring reapplication during intercourse.
  • Some contain glycerine or fragrances, which can irritate mucous membranes, so it's important to check the other ingredients, which vary from company to company.

Tip:

Choose a glycerine-, paraben- and fragrance-free water-based lubricant if you have sensitive skin or reactive mucous membranes.

2. Silicone-based lubricants

Silicone-based lubricants offer long-lasting glide, perfect for prolonged intercourse or use in the shower.

Advantages:

  • Water-resistant
  • Recommended for sensitive skin or skin prone to irritation
  • Can be used without having to reapply often
  • Can be used with condoms

Disadvantages:

  • Incompatible with silicone sex toys
  • May leave stains on fabrics

Tip:

Opt for silicone-based lubricants for anal intercourse or when you're looking for long-lasting lubrication, but avoid them with your silicone sex toys.

3. Oil-based lubricants

Often chosen for sensual massages, oil-based lubricants have a rich, enveloping texture.

Advantages:

  • Highly lubricating
  • Can be multi-purpose (intercourse, massages, etc.)

Disadvantages:

  • Incompatible with latex condoms (risk of breakage).
  • Can disrupt vaginal flora if not well tolerated

Tip:

Use with caution, especially if you're using barrier contraceptives, such as condoms.

4. Natural or organic lubricants

Formulated with ingredients, like aloe vera or coconut oil, these natural lubricants are increasingly popular among eco-conscious users.

Advantages:

  • Free of harsh chemicals
  • Gentle on sensitive skin

Disadvantages:

  • Not always compatible with latex condoms, so you need to be careful
  • Some natural ingredients (such as coconut oil) can alter vaginal pH

Tip:

Use with caution, especially if you're using barrier contraceptives, such as condoms.

How do I choose the right lubricant?

Here are some questions to ask yourself to make the right choice:

  • What is the main use? (vaginal or anal penetration, masturbation, sex toys, etc.).
  • Do you have sensitive skin or a history of vaginal infections?
  • Do you use condoms or silicone sex toys?
  • Do you prefer a light or more enveloping texture?

A few precautions

Although lubricants are generally safe, certain precautions should be followed:

  • Avoid irritating ingredients like parabens, glycerin, or synthetic fragrances
  • Perform a patch test before first use, especially if you have reactive skin
  • Check the expiration date and store the product away from heat and moisture
  • If you notice redness, itching, or discomfort, stop using it and consult a healthcare professional

Using lubricant is not taboo. It's even normal and recommended!

Using a lubricant doesn’t mean "something is wrong." On the contrary, it’s a simple and effective way to take care of your pleasure, intimate health, and sexual well-being. Whether it’s to add comfort, explore new sensations, or support the body during certain life stages, lubricant has its place in a fulfilling sex life.

Article written in collaboration with Au lit avec Anne-Marie

The drugs and pharmaceutical services featured on the familiprix.com website are offered by pharmacists who own the affiliated pharmacies at Familiprix. The information contained on the familiprix.com site is for informational purposes only and does not in any way replace the advice and advice of your pharmacist or any other health professional. Always consult a health professional before taking or discontinuing medication or making any other decision. Familiprix inc. and the proprietary pharmacists affiliated with Familiprix do not engage in any way by making this information available on this website.