I'm a huge fan of water-based lubricants since they're so easy to find (KY Jelly and Astroglide are sold at nearly every drugstore). They're also safe to use with condoms and sex toys, they are fairly inexpensive, and they wash off easily with water. I try to avoid ones that contain glycerin though, since they can be yeast infections waiting to happen.

So what about lubes that contain silicone? Is this something you should avoid? If you're curious to know then read more.

Don't throw out that bottle of Wet Platinum just yet! Although silicone seems like an ingredient you wouldn't want anywhere near your lady business, it's being used in lubes because of its safety and effectiveness. It has both good and not-so-good qualities, so check the chart below to see if it's something you'd be interested in using.

Pros Cons
  • Since these lubes contain no water, they never dry up, so they'll stay slick for a long time.
  • Silicone is great for people with sensitive skin.
  • They can also be used for full body massages, and they'll leave your skin soft.
  • Since they won't break down in water, they can be used in the shower or bath (or even underwater or in the rain, if you're into that).
  • You can't use silicone-based lubricants with silicone rubber sex toys as they'll break down the material.
  • Cleanup is not a breeze, and it's difficult to get off your sheets or other fabrics.
  • It's more expensive than water- or oil-based lubes, but since you use less, the price is pretty comparable at the end of the day.
  • They can leave a coating on your skin that some people don't like.
  • Most taste bad.

Dear's Advice: Not all silicone lubricants are created equal. If you're interested in trying one out, buy the the higher quality ones such as Eros (8.45 ounces for $33.95) or Wet Platinum (4 ounces for $18).

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