Personal lubricants are possibly the one of the most unrecognized sexual toys- their uses are pretty much limitless. While it is known that lubricants can be used to solve sexual problems, such as vaginal dryness, lubrication can and should be more important in your sexual life, instead of something you use only when you need to use it.

A successful personal lubricant can:

•  Enhance and intensify sexual sensations

•  Change the feeling of sex

•  Increase the amount of time you are able to have sex for

•  Reduce the chances of condom breakage

•  Help reduce or eliminate vaginal dryness and pain associated with this condition

•  Allow for specific sexual acts, such as use of sexual toys and anal sex.

It can be hard to choose the right one. I have made a list of information to consider in helping you choose the correct personal lubricant for your sexual lifestyle.

Water or Silicone Based Lubricants

Water and silicone based personal lubricants can be used with condoms, most of the products- and ingredients are always FDA approved. The basic differences in water based and silicone based lubricants are:

Water based:

•  Rinse out of, and off of the body more easily than silicone based

•  Are available for purchase at more places

•  Are available in different variations, such as warming and flavored

•  Are considerably less expensive to purchase

Silicone based:

•  Never dry up or evaporate

•  Require the use of soap and water to get off

•  Do not become absorbed into the skin

•  Cost more, but do not require as much for use

In most cases, thicker lubricants are more useful for anal play and use with sexual toys because they stay on longer, and can offer additional comfort for anal penetration. The consistency is a personal preference when used for vaginal penetration. If you are a male who is looking for a masturbation lubricant, you may want to consider an oil-based product because it stays slippery longer (however it is not good for use with condoms or vaginal sexual intercourse). It is also possible to mix a silicone lubricant with a water-based lubricant to achieve a thicker, longer lasting consistency.

Personal lubricants and allergic reactions

Reactions to ingredients inside of a lubricant can occur with any individual. Make sure to always check the ingredient list before using a personal lubricant (if you're shopping on the internet, only purchase from sites that list the complete ingredients). A common ingredient that causes allergic reactions in lubricants is the paraben preservative.

Personal lubricants and long-term health related issues

There were two small studies conducted in the last five years that have raised concerns over the long-term use of parabens, which are a common ingredient in many water based lubricants. The studies did not conduct enough research to prove any long term effects, but if you are concerned with long term health related issues, or allergic reactions, you may wish to consider purchasing a paraben-free personal lubricant.

Warming and Flavored Lubricants

Warming and Flavored options do not improve the original function of a lubricant, and some reports have indicated that flavored lubricants may dry up faster than other types. If you are worried about experiencing allergic reactions, it may be wise to avoid both warming and flavored personal lubricants. However, these lubricants can be an easy, fun way to add a little something extra to sex play! Kama Sutra Gel is an example of a warming personal lubricant. Kama Sutra Gel for Women is designed to enhance female sensual pleasure and heighten physical sensitivity while providing a warming sensation.

Steven Johnson is interested in maintaining a vital, active, and healthy lifestyle. For more information on products that relate to personal lubrication, along with other life-enhancing nutrients please visit his website Alternative Health Supplements.