Silicone based lubes and water based lubes

Contributor: Ash1141 Ash1141
Can someone explain to me what the difference is between the 2? What material toys should you use with silicone and which should you use with water based lubes? I don't want to ruin any of my toys by using the wrong lube. Thanks
10/31/2011
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Contributor: GingerAnn GingerAnn
Useful topic breakdown on Silicone Dildo:

Never had silicone! Suggestions?
I want to get both a silicone dildo and vibrator. The toys I have had I. The past have been made from other materials and I would like to try...

Is it ok to use silicone lube on a toy thats very high grade silicone?
I've been hearing mixed things. I imagine there's a split on the issue.

Rubber v TPR v Silicone
Which one do you like best and why?

Cleaning silicone toys by boiling...
how long do i boil dildos for? is it different depending on the material? if they have motors and i just 'dip' half the toy in how safe is it?

Tackiness of silicone
What is it that makes some silicone toys attract lint more readily than others?
10/31/2011
Contributor: Rin (aka Nire) Rin (aka Nire)
Silicone lubes are are slicker and last longer than water-based lubes. They can be used in the shower/tub/pool if you like, but can be a little hard to wash off. They're generally body-safe, but frequent use can sometimes result in a gummy residue in your nethers. Not harmful, but uncomfy (from what I understand). The biggest thing to watch out for is using it with silicone toys or any toys containing silicone, as the lube can bond to the surface of the toy and ruin it. Some high-quality toys are okay with silicone lubes, but always always always do a patch test beforehand to be sure. You might want to look at the site's guide to materials for more info on what materials can be used with silicone lube.

Water-based lube has varying levels of slickness and thickness depending on how it's made, but it generally doesn't last as long as silicone lube and it washes away with water (so you can't use it in the shower). Re-applying or using a small amount of water can reactivate it if it starts to dry up. It can be used with any material at all. Though you may want to scan through the ingredients for "dimethicone" ; or other "-icones" as those indicate that the lube is a "hybrid" - a water-based lube with a little bit of silicone in it. Most toys are okay with them, but you should still do a patch test to be safe. Some lubes are clearly marked as hybrids, others are not.

With water-based lubes, watch out for ingredients known as glycerin and parabens, as some people are sensitive to them and can gain irritation and infections from using lubes with these ingredients. (If you feel discomfort from a lube, wash yourself out as best as you can and consult a doctor if the irritation continues.) Some companies make glycerin- and paraben-free lubes (Sliquid specializes in body-safe lubes that mimic your body's natural lubrication) that don't carry any risk of giving you a reaction.
10/31/2011
Contributor: Jul!a Jul!a
Quote:
Originally posted by Rin (aka Nire)
Silicone lubes are are slicker and last longer than water-based lubes. They can be used in the shower/tub/pool if you like, but can be a little hard to wash off. They're generally body-safe, but frequent use can sometimes result in a gummy ... more
Very well said, better than I could have.
10/31/2011
Contributor: Rin (aka Nire) Rin (aka Nire)
Quote:
Originally posted by Jul!a
Very well said, better than I could have.
Thank you, though I think that may be the most long-winded post I've ever made. I just hope I covered all the most important parts.
10/31/2011
Contributor: Jul!a Jul!a
Quote:
Originally posted by Rin (aka Nire)
Thank you, though I think that may be the most long-winded post I've ever made. I just hope I covered all the most important parts.
I think you did
10/31/2011
Contributor: geliebt geliebt
Quote:
Originally posted by Rin (aka Nire)
Silicone lubes are are slicker and last longer than water-based lubes. They can be used in the shower/tub/pool if you like, but can be a little hard to wash off. They're generally body-safe, but frequent use can sometimes result in a gummy ... more
Lovely explanation!
I think everyone needs at least one good water-based lube! You can use it for anything, and it's easy to wash off. No problems! I really love silicone lube, though. Lasts for-freakin'-ever. Awesome stuff! Never gets sticky or gross.
11/01/2011
Contributor: Ash1141 Ash1141
Thanks a lot guys! I actually get it now. Lol
11/03/2011