# Lube 101

> Water, silicone or oil? A slippery guide to choosing well.

Category: Sex & relationships · 3 min read · Written by the Splash team · Sources checked October 2026
URL: https://splash.care/learn/sex-relationships/lube-101

## Quick answer

- Water- and silicone-based lubes are condom-safe.
- Oil-based lube damages latex condoms.
- Skip perfumes and spermicides if you’re sensitive.
- Ongoing dryness is worth a GP chat.

Lube isn’t just for “problems” – it makes sex more comfortable and often more fun. Plenty of things affect natural wetness: your cycle, hormonal [contraception](https://splash.care/learn/contraception/methods-overview), breastfeeding, [stress](https://splash.care/learn/cycle-basics/stress-travel-illness), or just not being warmed up yet.

## The three main types

- Water-based: condom-safe, toy-safe, easy to wash off. May need reapplying.
- Silicone-based: longer-lasting, condom-safe – but can damage silicone toys, so check labels.
- Oil-based (e.g. coconut oil): long-lasting, but damages latex condoms – avoid with latex.

**No oil + latex** Oil-based lube can make latex condoms split (NHS)

## Choosing wisely

- Avoid perfumed or flavoured lubes if you’re prone to irritation, [thrush](https://splash.care/learn/glossary/thrush) or BV
- Spermicidal lube can irritate and may raise [UTI](https://splash.care/learn/glossary/uti) risk – the NHS suggests non-spermicidal
- Trying to conceive? Choose one labelled fertility-friendly
- Patch-test new products if you have sensitive skin

> **Splash says:** warm a little lube between your fingers first – cold lube is a jump scare nobody needs!

**Myth:** Needing lube means you’re not turned on.

**Fact:** Wetness and desire don’t always line up. Hormones, contraception and stress all affect it.

### When to see a doctor

See a GP if dryness lasts a few weeks despite lube, affects daily life, or comes with unusual discharge or bleeding after sex. Vaginal moisturisers (different from lube) or other treatments may help.

## Sources

1. [NHS – Vaginal dryness](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vaginal-dryness/)
2. [NHS – Condoms](https://www.nhs.uk/contraception/methods-of-contraception/condoms/)
3. [ISSM – Considerations for selecting a personal lubricant](https://www.issm.info/sexual-health-qa/what-are-some-considerations-for-selecting-a-personal-lubricant)
4. [NHS – Cystitis](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cystitis/)

This is general information, not medical advice. Splash can’t diagnose. If you’re worried, talk to a GP, pharmacist or sexual health clinic. In an emergency call 999 (UK) or 911 (US).