Social media users reveal most shocking substances they’ve used as lube – and experts reveal what really is safe if you run out of KY Jelly
Experts have warned against using lubrication ‘alternatives’ during sex acts — as it could damage sensitive genital tissue.
Psychologist and sex expert Leah Levi raised the alarm after a recent analysis showed Google searches for ‘what can be used as lube’ surged more than 200 per cent in the last month.
She added that use of lubrication during sex is particularly common during the winter months, as the intimate areas can become dry due to cold air and heating.
A separate analysis of social media posts by MailOnline has revealed the wide variation of products that couples are using in place of products designed for sexual use.
A Reddit thread entitled, ‘what is an alternative to lube that you have used?’, which has hundreds of thousands of comments, shows many opt for coconut oil and Vaseline, while others choose cooking oils like extra virgin olive oil and sunflower oils.
‘Olive oil… it was not my idea. It worked fine, but I would rather have real lube,’ one social media user said.
‘We’ve been using [coconut oil’] for around ten years now after I found baby oil would give me a sore throat,’ wrote another.
However, for many Reddit users, the use of alternative products has resulted in unpleasant — and sometimes painful — consequences.
Experts agree and warn oil can cause irritation and even break condoms, but they say water-based lube is best
One commenter ‘strongly discouraged’ others from using sunflower oil and warned they can cause UTIs and yeast infections.
Another said they felt ‘clogged up for days’ after using Vaseline.
‘I’ve used coconut oil and it gave me the one of the worst UTI’s I’ve ever had. Instant, easy diagnosis because I was pissing blood the next morning,’ another said.
One person arguing against the use of coconut oil said: ‘I haaatttteeee the “natural” argument! Jalapeños are natural too — doesn’t mean we should stick ‘em in our vaginas.’
Experts agree and warn oils can cause irritation and break condoms.
‘You can use both coconut oil and sunflower oil as replacements for lube, however, there are some important considerations to be aware of before doing so,’ Annabelle Knight, sex and relationships expert at Lovehoney told Mailonline.
‘As both products are oils, they are more likely to make condoms break. Always choose a water-based or silicone-based lubricant if you plan to use condoms.’
However, if you do decide to use either coconut oil or sunflower oil, Ms Knight suggested testing for sensitivity first to prevent unpleasant reactions.
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She also warned that if it the oils are used internally they can change pH levels in the vagina, which can lead to irritation and even a yeast infection.
Ms Knight added: ‘Lube products should be paraben, glycerin, petroleum and fragrance free, pH balanced, come with low osmolality (diluted), and should not cause burning or discomfort.
‘Be careful and do your research, especially if you’re planning to use a more natural product as a lubricant.’
Water-based lubes, such as KY Jelly, are the most versatile and safest for nearly all sexual activities, said Ms Levi, who works in partnership with the safety-first dating app Flure.
‘They are compatible with all types of condoms and sex toys, making them an ideal all-purpose option,’ she said.
Although water-based products can dry out quickly, Ms Levi suggested adding water or reapplying to restore their slickness.
‘Water-based lubes are great for oral sex, as they often come in flavoured varieties and are safe to ingest in small amounts,’ Ms Levi added.
Silicone-based lubes, such as Durex Perfect Glide Lube, are another safe option. Experts say they are long-lasting and waterproof, which makes them useful for water-related activities.
‘They don’t dry out as quickly and are safe to use with latex condoms,’ Ms Levi said.
But she warned they can be harder to clean off skin and fabrics, are incompatible with silicone toys, and may irritate sensitive skin.
‘Silicone lubes are best suited for water play, since they don’t wash off easily in the shower or bath.
‘Also, they are safe to use during vaginal sex with latex condoms.’
Another option are hybrid lubricants which Ms levi explained combine the lightweight feel of water-based lubes with the long-lasting properties of silicone, but they can be a bit more pricy.
She said: ‘They provide longer-lasting lubrication without the mess of pure silicone-based lubes.
‘They provide lasting lubrication and are easier to clean off than silicone lubes. They are also safe to use with latex condoms and most sex toys.
‘However, they are usually more expensive than water-based lubes and may not be ideal for silicone toys due to their silicone concentration.’
Ms Knight also suggested using natural or organic lubes, which are perfect for anyone that is ‘environmentally conscious or for those with sensitive bodies’.
