Physicians often recommend silicone for worry-free sex. Well-formulated silicone lubricant lasts longer than water-based lubricants due to dimethicone and is safe for latex condoms, unlike oil-based lubricants.
However, consumers should know how to pick out a good, safe product. This starts with a careful assessment of a product's ingredient list.
Ingredients in Common Silicone Personal Lubricants
Because complex lubricants can alter the body's pH levels, putting users at risk of vaginal yeast infections and other complications, most silicone lubricants use four or fewer ingredients.
Dimethicone is the main ingredient in most high-quality personal lubricant products. It is a silicone oil closely related to plastic, and it is non-inflammable and non-toxic. Cyclomethicone is another silicone oil, and some products use both dimethicone and Cyclomethicone for enhanced lubrication.
Other common ingredients enhance scents or add flavoring to the lubricant. Unscented, unflavored personal lubricants are best for vaginal or anal sex to prevent irritation.
Safety Issues and Allergies
One of the advantages of a silicone sexual lubricant is a low chance of allergic reactions. Silicone allergies are infrequent, and people who react to lubricants usually react to spermicide or other additives. Users should wash off silicone lubricants with soap and warm water immediately after sex for the best experience.
There is considerable confusion regarding silicone safety due to the known dangers that the material can present if a silicone-based breast implant ruptures.
Many consumers assume that the silicone used in breast implants is the same as the silicone used in implants--and they're right. However, silicone lubricants never come into dangerous contact with the bloodstream; they're completely safe for any sex.
How do Silicone Lubricants compare to Other Personal Lubricants?
Silicone lubricants are safe for use with latex and polyurethane condoms. However, consumers should never use silicone lubricants with silicone sex toys unless specifically mentioned by the manufacturer, as this can damage the toys.
Water-based lubricants are much less expensive than silicone lubricants, and although water-based lubes don't last as long, many consumers prefer the least expensive option. Water-based lubricants also provide easier cleanup and can be used with silicone sex toys.
Silicone lubricants may be more expensive than oil-based lubricants, but oil-based lubricants cannot be used with latex condoms. Silicone is a safe, well-tolerated option for improving sex and an excellent aid to keeping by the bedside. Couples should experiment with different products to find the right personal lubrication.