Keep It Wet This Summer: The Benefits of Lube

Summer might bring sunshine, but it can also bring friction, dryness, and discomfort in all the wrong places. Whether you're looking to enhance intimacy, fight off chafing, or tame those flyaways, lube isn't just for the bedroom anymore. It's a versatile, body-friendly essential.

Remember: Wanting and using lubrication does not mean you aren’t turned on! There are many reasons why lube is the perfect companion for solo play, partnered play… and so much more!

The Many Benefits of Lube In and Out of the Bedroom

Combatting Vaginal Dryness & Menopause Discomfort

Remember: Hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause can cause thinning of vaginal tissue, leading to dryness, burning, and even microtears during intimacy. This isn’t just a mood killer, it can genuinely affect your quality of life and whether or not you want to engage in sexual activity. A good lube can restore comfort and confidence, making sex enjoyable again, and even making daily movement feel better. Whether you're rediscovering pleasure post-menopause or simply managing hormonal fluctuations, lube offers gentle, body-safe hydration when your body isn’t making it naturally anymore.

Our Picks: Wicked Simply Aqua for everyday dryness relief, or Slippery Stuff Ultra-Thick for deeper comfort.

Say Goodbye to Summer Chafing

Hot weather and humidity can turn a casual stroll into a red, raw nightmare. Lube acts as a skin barrier, preventing painful friction in sensitive areas like inner thighs, underarms, under breasts, or even around swimwear lines. Unlike powders, lube won’t cake or wear off with sweat. It glides on, stays put, and saves your skin.

Our Picks: Slippery Stuff Ultra-Thick for long-lasting, cushiony protection, or Überlube for a silky-smooth feel that doubles as a skin serum.

Enhancing Intimacy & Deepening Connection

Lube reduces physical friction and mental pressure, allowing both partners to stay present, relaxed, and far away from discomfort. It’s beneficial for those dealing with stress, hormone-related dryness, or body image concerns as it removes the need to “perform” and instead allows for exploration and pleasure. Plus, adding lube can signal a shared intention to take your time and care for each other’s bodies.

Our Picks: Wicked Simply Aqua for condom and toy-safe fun, or Simply Hybrid Jelle for more intense play that needs extra cushion.

Taming Flyaways, Frizz, and Dry Skin

Silicone-based lubes like Überlube aren’t just for sex. A single drop smoothed between your palms can tame flyaways, control frizz, and even add shine to dull ends. On skin, it works like a dry oil, softening cuticles and smoothing dry patches without a greasy finish. Dual purpose? Yes please!

Best pick: Überlube…you’ll be shocked how amazing it feels.

Reducing Risk of Tearing or Injury During Sex

Friction during intimacy doesn’t just ruin pleasure, it can cause painful microtears, especially during anal sex or longer, more rigorous sessions. Lube minimizes that risk, ensuring smoother, safer sex. This is especially important for those new to exploring anal play or for those recovering from childbirth, trauma, or any medical condition affecting the pelvic floor. A thicker, long-lasting lube gives you time to explore without pain.

Our Picks: Simply Hybrid Jelle or Slippery Stuff Ultra-Thick for deep comfort and long playtimes.

How Do You Navigate Different Types of Lube?

Different lubes are made for different purposes, and knowing what to use, and when, makes all the difference.

Here are four lubricants we love this summer, each with a different specialty:

Wicked Simply Aqua Water-Based Lubricant

Buy it here

• Best for: All-purpose, toy-safe, and gentle moisture
  
• Great for: Vaginal dryness, sex with condoms, and sensitive skin
  

This water-based formula is smooth, clean, and free from parabens, glycerin, and propylene glycol, perfect for sensitive users or anyone seeking a body-safe, no-fuss lube. It’s compatible with all toys and latex condoms, and it’s easy to wash away with water. Keep this one in your nightstand for everyday use.

Tip: Reapply as needed, water-based lubes can dry faster, especially in warm weather.

Wicked Simply Hybrid Jelle Extra-Thick Lubricant

Buy it here

• Best for: Anal play or longer sessions
  
• Great for: People who want a thicker feel with easy cleanup
  

This hybrid formula combines water and a touch of silicone to create a long-lasting, cushiony glide that’s thicker than your typical lube. It's especially ideal for anal sex or extended play. It’s also toy-safe (as long as toys aren’t made of silicone), and it won’t leave behind that sticky residue.

Note: Hybrid lubes should not be used with silicone toys.

Slippery Stuff Ultra-Thick Lubricant

Buy it here

• Best for: Chafing protection and anal comfort
  
• Great for: External use on thighs, delicate bits, or skin-prone to irritation
  

Don’t let the name fool you…this isn’t just for the bedroom. Slippery Stuff’s ultra-thick formula is fantastic for reducing friction on inner thighs, under arms, or anywhere your summer clothes rub wrong. It’s also a favorite for anal play thanks to its long-lasting glide and ultra-smooth texture.

Bonus: It’s water-based and condom-friendly!

 

Überlube Luxury Silicone Lubricant

Buy it here

• Best for: Luxe feel, hair taming, and underwater fun
  
• Great for: Shower sex, body massages, frizz control
  

Use it to calm flyaways, smooth dry cuticles, or add a touch of shine to your summer glow. It’s also a dream in the bedroom, waterproof and ultra-slippery, perfect for bath or shower play. Just don’t use it with silicone toys.

Pro tip: A little goes a long way.

 

Embrace the Lube!

Whether you’re using it to enjoy some sexy self-care, soothing irritated skin, or smoothing your hair before a night out, lube is one of the most underrated essentials. Choosing the right lubrication can mean more comfort, more pleasure, and a lot less discomfort. Don’t be afraid to embrace lube!