With so many natural options available,choosing the right vaginal lubricantcan be tricky.
Even when naturally derived, some ingredients can cause allergic reactions or irritation.
Everyone’s skin is also different, so “natural” doesn’t automatically make a product safe.
What does “natural” really mean?
Natural vs. organic.
For example, coconut oil always comes from a coconut (aka a natural source).
How that coconut is grownwith or without pesticideswill distinguish whether the product is natural or naturalandorganic, Irobunda explains.
Natural lube products to try.
A water-based lube made of 96% organically grown ingredients, including aloe and flaxseed extract.
This product is free of fragrances, silicone, glycerin, petroleum, and gluten.
Plus, the company gives 10% of their profits to women’s health organizationsthat’s a win-win.
Safe for use with condoms.
Both ingredients are grown sustainably and without pesticides.
Like most oil-based products, this should not be used with condoms.
The formula is also pH balanced to support a healthy vagina.
Safe for use with condoms.
Hypoallergenic Lubricant, LOLA ($14)
A hydrating, aloe-based lubricant.
Safe for use with condoms.
This product can also double as a massage oil.
Since this one’s oil-based, it shouldn’t be used with condoms.
This product gets its moisture and glide from aloe vera and agar, a thickener derived from seaweed.
Lemon and vanilla are added for extra enjoyment.
Safe for use with condoms.
This scent-free product is meant to mimic natural lubrication for subtle sexual enhancement.
Safe for use with condoms.
Organic Water-Based Lubricant, Ah!
Yes ($21.99)
A vegan- and vagina-friendly (4.0 to 4.4. pH) lubricant.
Safe for use with condoms.
The hemp extract is meant to relax the body before, during, and after use.
This oil-based lube should not be used with condoms.
It is meant to be used daily as a vaginal moisturizer, and before sex as a lubricant.
Vaginal Cosmetic Cream, Julva ($69.95)
DIY lube options.
Some lubricants labeled “natural” might actually combine both natural and synthetic ingredients.
To avoid that altogether, some people opt for DIY options.
Here’s a few other options you might consider:
Here’s Cabeca’sDIY lube recipe, too.
A few essential oils Cabeca recommends to soothe vaginal skin include rose,lavender, frankincense, and sandalwood.
What to avoid.
Just because the products and ingredients listed above are natural doesn’t mean they can’t pose risks.
See below for risks and how to test for reactions.
Risks and potential side effects.
Can weaken condoms.
The studies regarding at-home lube options are mixed in terms of efficacy and safety, Irobunda says.
That can decrease protection against unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Skin irritation.
Another concern of store-bought or homemade lube is the risk of allergic reactions or other forms of skin irritation.
“Natural lubricants are tricky because everyone is different,” Irobunda says.
“Wait 24 hours to see if there is a reaction,” she says.
The bottom line.
When it comes to lube, just grabbing anything from your kitchen is not a good idea.
Lastly, Irobunda says to choose a lubricant that you actually like.
Remember, sex is supposed to be enjoyable!
Play around with different options and decide what works best for you and your partner.
