What’s the Best Lubricant for Vaginal Dryness?

Several things happen in your body when you’re aroused. Your heart beats faster, more blood flows to your genitals, and your body produces lubrication. But sometimes your body needs a little extra help, especially if you deal with vaginal dryness. That’s where a vaginal lubricant (lube) can help, providing a quick boost of moisture when you need it most. 

Unlike vaginal moisturizers, which can be used every few days, lubricants are applied before sexual activity. Choosing the best lubricant for vaginal dryness might seem tricky at first because it depends on many factors. For example, are you looking for something that feels natural, lasts all night, or works well with toys? Let’s look at each type to help you find a good match.

Water-based lube

Water-based lubricants are a popular choice if you deal with vaginal dryness — and for good reason. They don’t damage latex, so they’re safe to use with vibrators, most sex toys, and latex condoms. They’re usually gentler on your body than other types of lube. They may cause less vaginal irritation or discomfort during sexual activities. Many people report increased sexual pleasure and comfort when using water-based lubricants, whether solo or with a partner.

Pros:

• Safe to use with condoms and sex toys

• Easy to clean and won’t stain sheets

• Gentle on sensitive skin

• Feels most similar to natural lubrication

Cons:

• Dries quickly and may need frequent reapplication

• Doesn’t work well in water 

• May contain glycerin and parabens

• Can get sticky as it dries

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Water-based lubricants are easy to find at your local stores and online. Common brands include K-Y Jelly, Astroglide, and ID Glide. Despite their names, water-based lubricants don’t do well in water. If you’re considering water-based activities, like shower sex, these may not be the best option. Water-based lubes also tend to dry out quickly, so you might have to apply them more than once.

When shopping for a water-base lubricant, check the ingredient list. Some contain glycerin, a sugar alcohol that can cause irritation or increase the risk of yeast infections. Others have parabens. These are preservatives that may cause hormonal changes, although research is ongoing. If you want to avoid these ingredients, there are glycerin- and paraben-free options like Slippery Stuff. 

Silicone-based lube

Unlike water-based lubes, which tend to dry out, silicone-based options are thicker and stay smooth longer. Brands like Wet Platinum, ID Millennium, and K-Y True Feel are known for their staying power. Silicone lubes might be a great choice if you don’t want to stop to reapply lube during intimate moments. Since silicone lubes don’t break down in water, they’re ideal for activities like shower sex. Be careful though — these lubricants can make surfaces slippery.

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Pros:

• Thicker and longer-lasting than water-based lubricants

• Safe to use with condoms

• Works well in water

• Doesn’t require frequent reapplication

Cons:

• Can stain sheets and clothing

• May require soap and water to clean

• Makes surfaces very slippery 

• Not safe with silicone sex toys

Silicone-based lubricants are just as good as water-based ones when it comes to improving sexual pleasure. But as with any intimate product, check the ingredient labels. Some silicone formulas may contain glycerin or parabens. It’s also best to wash off silicone lubricants soon after sex, as some people may experience sensitivity. 

The long-lasting quality of silicone lube does come with a few trade-offs. Cleanup may require more effort. You usually need soap and water to wash it off completely, and it might stain sheets and clothing. 

Also, silicone lube doesn’t pair well with silicone sex toys — it can damage the toy’s surface over time. But silicone-based lubes are OK to use with toys made from other materials, like glass. 

Oil-based lube

If you’re looking for something that goes the distance, oil-based lubricants might help. They’re silky and tend to last longer than any other type of lubricant. You can find them as commercial products, like Coconu Oil Based. Some people prefer kitchen staples like olive oil and almond oil. Plus, oil-based lubricants can double as sensual massage oils and are great during water play.

Pros:

• Silky and long-lasting

• Works well for massage

• Can be effective in water

• Natural options available

Cons:

• Breaks down latex condoms

• May increase STI and pregnancy risk

• Can cause irritation

• Difficult to clean up

But be careful with oil-based lubes. While they may work for masturbation, oil-based lubes aren’t best for penetrative sex with a partner. This is especially true if you’re using latex condoms. Oil can break down latex, putting you at risk for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or pregnancy. These lubes can also leave a coating that might cause irritation or bacterial infections. 

Cleanup can also be tricky. Oils can leave stubborn stains on fabric, so you might want to protect your favorite sheets.

Other types of lube

Hybrid lubricants combine water- and silicone-based formulas. They’re generally safe to use with most toys and condoms. But you’ll want to check the silicone content if you plan to use them with silicone toys. These lubes can be a good middle ground if water-based options feel too sticky, but silicone lubes are too slick.

If you prefer natural ingredients, aloe-based lubricants — like Aloe Cadabra — might be worth exploring. Made from aloe vera plants, these lubes can add moisture and are usually gentle on sensitive skin. They’re also generally safe to use with condoms and sex toys. But keep in mind that they don’t last as long as other types, so you might need to reapply.

What’s the best type of vaginal lubricant for you?

Finding the best lubricant for vaginal dryness can take some trial and error. What works for one person might not work for another. Here’s how to choose a vaginal lubricant.

Consider your activities

Everyone’s body is different, and so are their lubrication needs. Where and how you plan to use your lubricant matters, too. Understanding your planned activities can help narrow down your options.

Read the labels

Take an extra minute or two to scan ingredient lists before buying a vaginal lubricant:

• Watch out for ingredients like glycerin and parabens, especially if you’re prone to yeast infections or have sensitive skin. 

• "Warming" and "tingling" products might sound exciting, but they can cause discomfort for many people. 

• Spermicides like nonoxynol-9 can be irritating and aren’t recommended. 

• Keep an eye on pH balance. Your vagina’s natural pH ranges from 3.8 to 4.5, which helps protect against infections. Lubricants labeled as "pH-balanced" can help maintain this healthy environment.

Check condom compatibility 

If you’re using latex condoms, water-based and silicone-based lubes are your best bets. Avoid oil-based products, as they can break down latex.

Test for allergies 

As with any new skincare product, it’s smart to test lubricants before using them. Apply a small amount to a less sensitive area of your skin to check for any reaction. If you notice burning, itching, or redness, that formula isn’t right for you. 

Start with small amounts 

After checking for allergies, begin with a small amount of lubricant — about the size of a dime. This lets you gauge how it feels and how your body responds. You can always use more if needed. The right amount depends on what feels good to you and the product you’re using.

Products to avoid using as lube

You might be tempted to reach for something in your cabinet. But many household products can make latex condoms less effective or lead to irritation or infection. Here are products to avoid using as lube, especially with latex condoms:

• Petroleum jelly (Vaseline)

• Baby oil

• Cooking oils

• Body lotions and creams

• Mineral or suntan oil

• Butter

• Hemorrhoid creams

• Burn ointments

When should you see a doctor about vaginal dryness?

Over-the-counter (OTC) vaginal moisturizers and lubricants may work well for some people. But if vaginal dryness persists, contact a healthcare professional. They can help identify the cause — such as hormonal changes during menopause — and discuss the best treatment options.

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Written by:

Maggie Aime, MSN, RN

Maggie's writing brings health topics to life for readers at any stage of life. With over 25 years in healthcare and a passion for education, she creates content that informs, inspires, and empowers.

Edited by:

Lauren Savage, MA

Lauren Savage, MA, is a health editor at GoodRx, where she focuses on movement, exercise, and healthy aging. She aims to provide readers with the information they need to live healthier, more active lifestyles.

Reviewed by:

Sarah Gupta, MD

Sarah Gupta, MD, is a licensed physician with a special interest in mental health, sex and gender, eating disorders, and the human microbiome. She is currently board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.

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