Anal Lube Alternatives

Anal Lube Alternatives

Early Prime Day deals & all the facts
Early Prime Day deals & all the facts
Early Prime Day deals & all the facts
Early Prime Day deals & all the facts
February 15, 2022, 6:00 PM · 5 min read
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Truth: There’s nothing more thoughtful than a special curation of lubes for your intimate time. Also truth: Everyone runs low on the necessary goods on occasion, so the best lube alternatives should be part of your working knowledge of sexual wellness. Before you MacGyver some mixture of viscous (but potentially irritating) fluids, read our deep dive into the ins and outs of lube substitutes, including what is—and what isn’t—safe to use.
A lube is any substance that lubricates in vaginal or anal sex. While blood vessels in the vagina make moisture whenever you get aroused, OB/GYN and Medical Director of Women’s Healthcare of Princeton, New Jersey, Dr. Maria Sophocles praises lube for its ability to make things even more wet. “There are water-based lubes (a good one is Trojan’s H2O Closer )," Dr. Sophocles says, “and then there are silicone-based lubes, which last longer.” (For the latter, she recommends this tingle-inducing formula ). And note: Water-based lubes are safe for use with silicone toys , while silicone-based lubes are not. Dr. Sophocles also points out that there are lubes that specifically combat dryness, either for every day, non-sexual use or for sexual activity (she gives a shout-out to Replens ).
If you’re at all shy about introducing lube into your intimate life, Dr. Sophocles has your script: “Just say ‘Hey, check it out! I thought this would make things even more fun!’ Variety keeps this game interesting!”
But what to do when you’ve run out of your favorite formula or would simply like to explore some natural lube options? Here's what’s you can use, and what to skip, according to doctors:
According to anal surgeon Dr Evan Goldstein, founder & CEO of Bespoke Surgical , “ Coconut oil is often referred to as a relatively safe lube alternative, but there are some cautions people should keep in mind, including the potential for yeast infections and the breakdown of the microbiome.” The doctor also notes that oils aren't condom compatible. “With these precautions in mind, coconut oil is fantastic at moisturizing and reducing friction, which ultimately will enhance pleasure during sex while helping minimize injury, like fissures or tears.” But it’s important to know that not everyone’s a convert: Dr Laura Purdy, medical director of Wisp online prescription service (which makes a fine silicone-based lube , btw), recommends against putting food products in the vagina “as there is a lot of potential for contamination and also if the item has gone bad it could put you at risk for infection.” As for toys, many sex toy makers (such as Le Wand , for example) agree that using any oil-based lube—even natural, organic coconut oil—is best avoided in case it breaks down the silicone or rubber the toy is made from.
“ Aloe Vera is a great lube alternative option in a pinch,” says Dr. Purdy. “It is soothing, and naturally has a gel-like consistency with good slip. You just have to be certain to use 100 percent aloe vera , as many bottled options also contain other ingredients.” Do a patch test before using, though, since pure aloe vera can cause stinging and irritation in some people.
Not compatible with condoms or silicone sex toys
“While a water-based lubricant is highly suggested during sexual intercourse, there are a handful of substitutes that have made their way from the kitchen to the bedroom over the years,” says Dr. Taraneh Shirazian , a gynecologist at NYU Langone. She praises olive oil for its moisturizing properties and its staying power, since it’s an oil. However, as an oil, it’s not compatible with latex condoms or sex toys, and like coconut oil, could pose the risk of infection; if that happens, Dr. Shirazian recommends picking up some Monistat at your local pharmacy and seeing your doctor.
This lube substitute is a definite no-no, says Dr. Purdy. “As far as repurposing personal care products as a lube alternative, Vaseline and Baby Oil have actually been shown to increase chances of yeast infection and bacterial vaginosis for people with vaginas, while the artificial fragrances commonly found in lotions and soaps can cause irritation and allergic reactions.” So use this household staple to moisturize cracked heels and split ends by all means, but keep it away from your intimates, OK?
“While egg whites have been known to be used a lube, eggs can carry salmonella and should be avoided as to not contract an illness,” says Dr. Shirazian. (Not to mention, how awkward would it be to stop mid-foreplay to break some eggs then separate the yolks?)
Resoundingly nixed by doctors as a lubricant, spit is called out for everything from its potential to spread STIs to its ineffectiveness. According to Dr. Goldstein, spit might even make your need for lube greater: “I don’t recommend spit for anal penetration. Unlike the vagina, the anus does not self-lubricate, so you need a dedicated lubricant that is going to provide slick, long-lasting performance. Spit not only dries up quickly, but it can leave you actually drier than if you didn’t used anything to begin with.”
PureWow may receive a portion of sales from products purchased from this article, which was created independently from PureWow's editorial and sales departments.
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» Everything Lube » A Complete Guide To Safe Lube Alternatives And Ones To Avoid
“What can I use instead of lube?” is an age-old question…
Sometimes you don’t have any lube on hand when you most need it, which can turn a hot sexy moment into one of dry disappointment.
You can go without sex (not a fun option) or you can grab something out of your pantry or medicine cabinet as an alternative to traditional lube .
But is what you’re about to use safe? Will it do the job and keep things wet and slippery? And if it isn’t or won’t, what should you use instead?
Not all lube alternatives are good ones, and some can be downright dangerous, as Women’s Health Interactive medical review board member Dr. Susan Milstein pointed out.
So let’s jump right in and help you figure out if what you’re about to do the deed with is a good substitute for store-bought lube.
[Everything on the list below is considered SOMETIMES safe; Those that are “Safe In Most Cases” are labeled as such.]
→ Things You Should NOT Use As Lube:
[Everything on the list below is NOT recommended; Those that are entirely unsafe are labeled as such.]
This article is a guide or starting point on lube alternatives – from those that are safe to use to those you should avoid completely.
Editor’s Note: This article is part of our Lube Alternatives and Everything Lube hubs, in-depth and evolving resources that comprehensively explore all aspects of personal lubricants from the different types and how to use them, to ingredients and safety — created to help you achieve the sexual pleasure you deserve.
Personal lubricant is a thick liquid applied to your genitals, hands, sex toys, and/or the anus to help reduce friction and lubricate the body during penetrative sex and masturbation.
Many people use lube during vaginal sex when the vagina isn’t wet enough to keep sex comfortable and pleasurable and some people just use lube because they like the way it feels.
It’s also ideal to use lube when your new partner’s penis is larger than you’re used to or you’re trying out a new dildo.
Vaginal penetration isn’t the only time you need lubrication, though. It’s an absolute must during anal sex , too.
The anus doesn’t get wet the way the vagina can. Your butt needs help. The right lube helps reduce pain during anal sex making it a much better experience for everyone involved.
There are four types of personal lubricant that you can purchase:
Natural and organic lubes are also available, and these can be water-based or oil-based depending on the product.
Natural and organic lubricants may use aloe or oils derived from nut-based sources, so make sure to read the label if you have an allergy or sensitivity to nuts or latex, which is found in the aloe plant.
While we highly recommend formulated personal lube , that’s not always available. Let’s take a look at lube alternatives that you can use and what situations they’re best for.
People have been using creams, lotions, oils, and other liquids as lube for millennia to make sex more comfortable because friction during sex isn’t fun.
Many of them are safe enough to use as lube in certain circumstances — including a great number of oils.
That said, there are a few important things to understand before using any oil as a personal lubricant, including store-bought oil-based products.
Oils can clog your skin’s pores, which can trap bacteria and cause irritation or infection, especially if you’re someone with sensitive skin .
Additionally, some oils are derived from natural sources that you may be allergic to — such as nuts or sunflowers — which can lead to irritation at best, and a severe allergic reaction at worst.
Oils can and will degrade condoms made from latex or polyisoprene, which negates their effectiveness as a contraceptive barrier and their protection against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Polyurethane, nitrile, and lambskin condoms are compatible with oils, however, the latter doesn’t offer any protection against STDs or STIs between partners.
Additionally, oils can degrade sex toys made from latex, rubber, or jelly rubber. If you plan to use these types of sex toys, you’ll want to select a lube alternative that isn’t an oil.
Below is a list of alternatives that may be safe for some forms of sex but not necessarily for all sexual encounters.
Click any link below to learn more about that particular type of lube alternative and why it is generally considered safe for sex, according to Dr. Susan Milstein, who sits on our medical review board .
[Everything on the list below is considered SOMETIMES safe; Those that are “Safe In Most Cases” are labeled as such.]
There’s an expression that’s important to remember here…
Just because you can do something doesn’t mean you should .
This is especially true in sex. Yes, you need something to lubricate yourself and your partner but not just anything will do, as Dr. Susan Milstein, who sits on our medical review board, told us.
There is a long list of lube alternatives to avoid because of their potential to cause skin irritation, vaginal or anal infections, and even the transmission of STDs or STIs between partners.
As we mentioned earlier, there are a few important things to understand before using any type of oil as lube and although you shouldn’t use any of the below alternatives, it’s worth addressing one more time.
Oils can clog pores, trapping bacteria inside and potentially leading to vaginal or anal infections, particularly in those with sensitive skin. A lubricant formulated for sensitive skin may be the best option.
Additionally, oils will degrade latex and polyisoprene condoms, making them ineffective as a contraceptive barrier and negating their protection against sexually transmitted diseases STDs) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Condoms made from polyurethane or lambskin are compatible with oils, however, the latter doesn’t offer any protection against STDs or STIs.
Additionally, oils should not be used with sex toys made from latex, rubber, or jelly rubber because they’ll degrade the material. If you plan to use these types of sex toys at all, make sure to choose a safe lube alternative that isn’t an oil.
Click any link to jump to the one you’re most curious about, or scroll to read through all of the alternative lubes you should skip — and why.
[Everything on the list below is NOT recommended; Those that are entirely unsafe are labeled as such.]
With so many lube alternatives, you have more choices than you probably realize just sitting in your kitchen or bathroom.
For most people, however, it’s still best to use body-safe lubricants formulated specifically for your genitals, though.
If you prefer something less processed and without questionable ingredients, natural lubes are always a good option.
And if you’re sure exactly what you’re looking for or where to start, you can read through our in-depth lube guide or take our helpful lube quiz that will give you an answer in less than a minute’s time.

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Nora D. Volkow. 2014 June 24. The Biology and Potential Therapeutic Effects of Cannabidiol. National Institute on Drug Abuse. https://archives.drugabuse.gov/testimonies/2015/biology-potential-therapeutic-effects-cannabidiol

Maryam Darvishi, Fereshteh Jahdi, Zeinab Hamzegardeshi, Saied Goodarzi, and Mohsen Vahedi. 2015 April 03. The Comparison of Vaginal Cream of Mixing Yogurt, Honey and Clotrimazole on Symptoms of Vaginal Candidiasis. National Center for Biotechnology Information - Global Journal of Health Science. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4803919/

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There are plenty of lube alternatives out there, but which ones are safe? We'll help you decide which one is best for you, your condoms, and your toys.
Lube is one of the most important items during sex. Honestly, it's probably THE most important item.
The problem is that we don't always have it just lying around the apartment.
While not having lube hasn't stopped many people from attempting sex, it's always better when things glide easier.
But what to do when your bottle of store-bought slick stuff is empty, and it's time for Netflix and Chill?
Your cabinets - both kitchen and bathroom - might have some safe, fun alternatives for you to use.
The items safe to use as lube are CBD, Virgin Coconut Oil, Cornstarch & Water, Egg Whites, Aloe Vera, Sweet Almond Oil, Yogurt, Vitamin E Oil, Avocado Oil, and Olive Oil.
You should avoid using honey, baby oil, vaseline, vegetable oil, shortening, lotion, spit, and butter.
Pro Tip: If lube alternatives are not your cup of tea then check out the line of premium lubricants from Promescent.
There are a handful of things to consider when you're using lube in general:
Condom use - some lubes (and yes, even store-bought ones) will destroy the integri
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Anal Lube Alternatives

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