When it comes to glides (lube), it can be easy to be overwhelmed by all of the choices that are out there. There are different brands, different kinds of lube, different ingredients to choose from, and because of this, it becomes difficult to just narrow it down to buying one. Some people make choices based on recommendations or reviews. Some people look for products that suit their specific needs. For example, some people are looking for glides that are water based, or perhaps ones that contain vegan ingredients. If this is your first time buying a glide (or even if it’s not because you learn something new everyday), then continue reading our 10 quick tips about glides.
Glides? What are glides?
Glides are essentially personal lubricants. So yes, they are what you think they are and we think it’s something you should consider having in your life. Why? Because penetration would be smoother, and as a result, lube reduces painful friction and makes the sex more intensified and longer-lasting. That should be more than convincing enough for you to join in on the lube fun. All in all, lubes are the way to go if you want to enhance arousal and sexual performance. Now let’s get into our 10 quick tips about glides.
1. Apply glide before intercourse
This should be obvious, but when you’re in the heat of the moment, sometimes it’s easy to forget about that bottle of lube that’s sitting on the other side of the room. We suggest placing a bottle near the bed (or close-by to where the action will take place). This is the perfect moment to take advantage of some amazing foreplay. Try not to focus solely on penetration, and don’t be afraid to rub it in other areas such as around the genitals, anus, nipples… pretty much anywhere. Hell, I even suggest that you put some on your sex toys like dildos or vibrators (remember not to use Silicone-based lubes on toys made out of silicone because the toy can get damaged).
2. Check for condom compatibility
Oil-based lubes are not the best when using condoms because the condoms become permeable making them less effective and less safe. Instead, use water-based lubes or even silicone-based ones.
3. Put a couple of drops INSIDE the condom
Ok, let me explain because this actually works. Many guys always talk about how they do not feel any sensation when wearing condoms (*SIGH*), so a good way to enhance sensations is to apply a couple of drops to the rubber before putting it on. Done. That’s it. You won’t hear any complaints after that.
4. Make sure you’re not allergic to any of the ingredients
Please check. Double check. Triple check. Whatever it takes to ensure that you are not allergic to any of the ingredients of the glide. Patch testing is the simplest way to check for allergies.
5. There are flavored glides! Use them for oral sex
Let me tell you… that I am LATE (better late than never though right?) to the flavored lube game. I’m actually a little upset at myself for not using these sooner. When it comes to oral sex, there are two kinds of people. Those who love and those who hate it. I happen to be part of the group that love it. Flavored lubes are literally the icing on the cake. It’s an added bonus! There are numerous flavors that exist in the lube world. My favorite ones come from Intimate Earth. Their Salted Caramel Natural Flavors Glide is delicious and it’s also vegan.
It’s a win-win!
6. Put it in the fridge
This may be awkward if you’re living with other people, but there’s a first for everything. It’s like putting a Snickers bar into the freezer because it tastes so much better. The same goes for chilled lube. The sexual experience becomes more exciting as the warm body’s sensitivity is heightened. We recommend this over using ice cubes because the glide eventually adjusts to your body temperature.
7. Avoid glides that contain parabens, glycerin, and aspartame
It’s always good to know what you’re putting into your body before consuming/applying anything to it. Parabens are just bad. Yes, this is a common ingredient found in most cosmetic products because it gives them a long shelf life. Many studies have suggested that parabens are linked to breast cancer and disrupt hormones. Glycerin is commonly found in cheaper lubricants, but it’s not an ingredient you want in your body either. This ingredient can cause yeast infections and can cause mucus membranes to dry out, which can result to other infections. It’s better to avoid it all together.
Aspartame is an FDA approved ingredient, but it is still one to look out for when vetting on glides. This ingredient is an artificial sweetener that you’ll most likely find in flavored glides. There have been reports from consumers that products with aspartame have caused nausea, headaches, and anxiety. Luckily, a brand such as Intimate Earth exists. Their products contain zero parabens, glycerin, and aspartame. Your body is a temple, so you should especially take good care of it.
8. Use Silicone-Based Glides In The Shower
What’s great about silicone is that they last longer and you don’t have to keep reapplying it. It’s ideal when “getting it on” in the shower because they do not wash away as quickly as non-silicone lubes.
9. If you’re trying to conceive do not use water-based or silicone-based glides
So if you and your partner are trying to make a baby, stay away from the water-based or silicone-based lubricants because some studies have suggested that these kinds of lubes contain reduces sperm motility.
10. Do Not Store Them In Direct Heat
I’m not saying you have to keep them in the fridge, but it’s always good to keep them away from the window with direct sunlight or heat given that the chemicals tend to make the glides light sensitive.
It’s time to get your glide on and love naturally!