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. less