The History of Personal Lubricant and What to Never Use as Lube

Throughout history, humans have always made and used products (more or less adapted) to lubricate the intimate parts in order to make sex more pleasant and more fun. While it is obviously very useful to lubricate the intimate mucous membranes so that it "glides" better, you must however be very careful about what you use as a sexual lubricant so as not to damage the tissues, create health problems or cause injuries.

Intimate lubricant through time

Whether it's for reproduction or simply to feel good, sex has been a part of human life since the dawn of time. Since human physiology hasn't really changed over the centuries, it's only natural that intimate lubricant also made its appearance a very long time ago. While saliva was most likely the first water-based lubricant used by humans, other substances have also played this role over the centuries.

In ancient times, the Greeks used olive oil, for example. More recently, in Japan, clove oil, yam puree or carrageenan extracted from red algae could also be used. It was not until the 1800s that the intimate lubricant as we know it today appeared. And you probably know it, since it is Vaseline!

In the 1900s, silicone-based lubricants came onto the market. Initially, these lubricants were sold for medical purposes without being specifically intended for sexual activity. It was not until the 1980s that they became available over the counter, without a prescription, for recreational and non-medical purposes.

What to Never Use as a Sex Lube

Products to avoid to protect your intimate areas and your health

Although it is always a good idea to lubricate the intimate mucous membranes when things get "stuck", you should not use just anything. Here is a list of products that should never be used as an intimate lubricant:

• Which can damage vaginal tissues.
• Which may alter the pH of the vagina, which is between 3.8 and 4.5.
• Products that contain ingredients that are potentially harmful to the body and could enter it through the vaginal mucosa or penis.
• Products that could cause bacterial infections, mycoses or be the source of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
• What could cause irritation (edible lubricants, cherry or strawberry flavored or scented lubricants, for example)
• Which could compromise your partner's health (allergies, irritations, sensitivity to certain ingredients, etc.).

These products deserve special attention

Oils that are not specifically dedicated to intimate pleasure are not recommended, because not only do they tend to make condoms porous, but they can also cause intimate mycoses. The same problem occurs with moisturizing treatments such as milks or body lotions that have the major disadvantage of causing irritation.

Although it is always at hand, saliva is not a good lubricant and can actually dry out the mucous membranes. In addition, it can increase the likelihood of transmitting sexually transmitted infections. According to studies, petroleum jelly also increases the risk of developing diseases of the intimate mucous membranes.

The products to favor for effective and healthy lubrication

Water-based lubricants

Perfect for moisturizing and lubricating the intimate area without harming its pH and without altering the effectiveness of the contraceptive methods used, water-based lubricants are the best solution for having fun safely. At IntyEssentials , we offer you the organic water-based lubricant Yes WB which combines both lubrication and vaginal hydration for maximum pleasure without the risk of damage to the intimate mucous membranes. In addition, it is vegan and can be used safely during pregnancy.

Silicone based lubricants

Among sexual lubricants , there are also silicone-based lubricants that have no adverse effects on the contraceptive methods used, such as condoms. Effective and safe, they are suitable for most situations, but are not compatible with the use of sex toys, which they may damage.

Oil-based lubricants

If you are not using any particular method of contraception, you can very well turn to oil-based intimate lubricants which offer a different sensory experience. Be careful! This category of lubricants is also not compatible with the use of certain sex toys and condoms.

Use lubricants for even more fun in bed

Using an intimate lubricant is not strictly reserved for people suffering from vaginal atrophy or dryness or even genital pain or dyspareunia…on the contrary, using a good intimate lubricant can both moisturize and lubricate the intimate area, but also give more pleasure to partners by increasing the sensation of sliding and reducing friction. Basically, as long as it is healthy for your intimate mucous membranes, you can use your intimate lubricant at will, both for penetration and for masturbation!

At IntyEssentials , we offer you a wide selection of organic, natural, water-based, oil-based or silicone lubricants to intensify pleasure and increase intimate comfort in complete safety. Enjoy them without fear!