Sexual lubricants are one of the most important tools for enhancing sexual pleasure and minimizing physical discomfort, and many commercial lubricants contain a number of harsh chemicals that can lead to the risk of irritating sensitive skin or upsetting hormonal balance. If you want to make your own, you can use common household items to make lubricants, and you can make your own natural homemade lubricants by doing it yourself at home – homemade lubricants that are both effective and safe, as well as great for intimate moments. Here’s a comprehensive guide to making homemade lubricants and exploring natural alternatives.
Understanding homemade lubricants
Homemade lubricants are lubricants that are made from scratch using household items readily available at home. These can include oils such as coconut oil, avocado oil, jojoba oil, or olive oil, as well as natural ingredients such as cocoa butter, shea butter, and even hemp oil. By combining them with waxes (such as beeswax) and essential oils in combination with each other, you can create a gel-like substance, which can reduce friction during sexual activity.
The importance of natural lubricants
The skin near the genitals is particularly sensitive, which makes it essential to use lubricants during sexual activity. Many people prefer lubricants with natural ingredients, which can prevent body infections, irritation and discomfort. This is especially true for those going through menopause, as hormonal changes can make the vagina and vulva area more fragile and vulnerable to damage.
Some commercial lubricants contain chemicals that may be harmful to your intimate areas. Ingredients to avoid include:
Fragrances
Can cause skin irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin.
Glycerin
May contribute to the risk of yeast infection in susceptible individuals.
Parabens
Can disrupt hormones and may cause systemic physical problems, especially in those with a history of hormone-sensitive cancers.
Propylene glycol
Found in many water-based lubricants and poses a risk of irritating sensitive skin.
Silicone-based lubricants
Contains chemicals such as cyclomethicone, which has been linked to uterine cancer.
Hydroxyethyl cellulose
A thickener that can irritate sensitive skin.
Gluconolactone
A mild antiseptic that may upset the natural pH balance of the vagina.
Chlorhexidine gluconate
A preservative that may damage vaginal flora.
Methylparaben
A preservative and endocrine disruptor that may affect endocrine secretions.
Sodium hydroxide
Used to regulate the pH of products, but may irritate skin in sensitive areas.
Important considerations
Before researching homemade lubricant formulations, be aware that finding a natural ingredient lubricant that works for you and your partner may require trial and error. It is important to research all ingredients to make sure they are safe and reliable. Some people may be physically allergic to certain natural ingredients, while others may pose a potential risk of infection, such as bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections.
9 Best Household Items for Homemade Lubricants
Certain pantry staples can double as cooking seasonings, moisturizers and even lubricants. While most of the items listed below are generally safe to use vaginally and anally, a patch test is recommended beforehand to check for allergies. It is also worth noting that the oils are not compatible with latex condoms, but can be safely used with polyurethane, nitrile or natural film (sheepskin) condoms.
Virgin Coconut Oil
Virgin coconut oil is a very popular natural lubricant that is usually better tolerated. It has a pleasant odor and taste that is perfect for oral sex activities. However, it is important to use virgin or unrefined kind of coconut oil to avoid any additives that may irritate the skin.
Benefits
It improves skin elasticity and provides moisturization, which is ideal for relieving vaginal dryness. It can also be used in silicone sex toys.
Limitations
Not suitable for use with latex condoms or latex sex toys as the oil can damage the latex and render it ineffective. Also, some people may be allergic to coconut oil.
DIY Lubricant Recipe
Ingredients:
1/3 cup organic coconut oil
1 tablespoon beeswax
5 drops of essential oil (e.g. ylang ylang, patchouli, lavender, peppermint oil)
Method
Melt the coconut oil and beeswax using a double boiler, gradually add the essential oils until completely cooled, stirring just until light and fluffy. Then store in a glass bottle or jar.
Sweet Almond Oil
Advantages
Relatively safe to consume, long-lasting, pleasantly scented, and great for lubrication during oral sex and anal activities.
Limitations
Primarily, do not use with latex condoms, as the oil can cause the latex to fail and break. Some people with nut allergies should also avoid sweet almond oil.
DIY Lubricant Recipe
Ingredients:
1/4 cup sweet almond oil
A few drops of your favorite essential oil.
Method
Mix the almond oil and essential oil drops in a glass jar or bottle and shake well. Then just store in a cool, dark place.
Cornstarch
Benefits
It can be used as a thickener and is also rich in vitamins that promote skin health. It is safe to use with latex condoms and silicone sex toys.
DIY Lubricant Recipe
Ingredients:
1 cup water.
4 teaspoons cornstarch.
Method
Simply combine the cornstarch and water in a saucepan, bring to a boil, stirring frequently for about 30 seconds, and store in a glass jar.
Flaxseed Oil
Benefits: Flaxseed is rich in phytoestrogens and omega-3 fatty acids, which can significantly increase estrogen levels and promote natural lubrication.
DIY Lubricant Recipe
Ingredients:
1 cup flaxseed
3 cups filtered water
Method
Add the flaxseed to boiling water and cook for about ten minutes or so, then drain and cool. Refrigerate for up to two weeks.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera gel is known for its soothing properties and is very beneficial for sensitive skin or sensitive areas. Pure aloe vera gel is a great lubricant, but it is still important to read the ingredients carefully. Some bottled aloe vera gels contain alcohol or other irritants.
Benefits
Aloe Vera has a variety of moisturizing, soothing, and cooling properties that make it one of the ideal choices for treating vaginal dryness, as it is oil-free and can be used with all condoms and sex toys.
DIY Lubricant Recipe
Ingredients.
1/4 cup aloe vera gel
1/4 cup flaxseed oil
4 drops peppermint essential oil
Method
Mix the aloe vera ingredients in a bowl and use immediately.
Long yams (yams)
Benefits
Long yams become very slippery and sticky when cooked, cut or grated and provide great lubrication.
DIY Lubricant Recipe
Ingredients:
Yams
Coconut or almond oil
Lemon seed essential oil
Method
Prepare long yams and melt coconut oil, mix well with long yams and then add essential oils. It will be ready to use.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is an excellent choice of natural oil. Use virgin or extra virgin olive oil and avoid any additives in it. It is safe to consume and perfect for oral sex. Olive oil is easy to find and relatively cheap, and is more durable than many water-based lubricants.
Advantages
Contains monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), making it an excellent natural lubricant.
Limitations
It can stain fabrics and should be used with caution. The skin also does not absorb olive oil, so it should be washed off after sexual activity. Like coconut oil, olive oil is not compatible with condoms and latex sex toys.
DIY Lubricant Recipe
Ingredients:
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
A few drops of essential oil
Method
Add drops of olive oil and a few drops of essential oil into a glass bottle or jar and shake well. Then store in a cool, dark place.
Avocado Oil
Avocado oil has many of the same benefits as coconut oil and olive oil – it has a strong moisturizing effect, lasts longer than water-based lubricants, and is safe to consume. It has a more neutral odor and taste, making it an ideal choice for those who find coconut and olive oils too heavy tasting. However, as an oil, do not use it with condoms or latex sex toys.
Pros
Smooth and very long lasting, tasteless and odorless, great for oral sex.
Limitations
Not as effective as other oils and may increase the risk of potential yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis.
DIY Lubricant Recipe
Ingredients:
1/4 cup avocado oil
A few drops of your favorite essential oil.
Method
Add both oils to a glass jar and shake well. Be sure to keep out of direct sunlight.
Shea Butter
Advantages
Thick and very long lasting, it is a good natural anal lubricant option.
Limitations
Can cover the vagina and prevent it from breathing properly. As an oil, it is not compatible with latex or polyisoprene condoms.
DIY Lubricant Recipe
Shea Butter
A few drops of essential oil
Method
Gradually melt the shea butter with the heat of your hands and simply apply it to your sex toy or penis.
Household ingredients to avoid when making Homemade Lubricants
While many household items can be used as lubricants, there are some that should be avoided because of potential health risks:
Baby oil: may increase the risk of bacterial vaginosis.
Vaseline: unsafe for use with condoms and can lead to potential vaginal infections.
Glycerin: may increase the risk of transmission of genital herpes.
Refined cooking oils (vegetable oils): chemically treated and can lead to potential yeast infections.
Chocolate, shortening and cream: contains sugar and dairy products that can lead to potential yeast infections.
Honey: high sugar content may promote bacterial growth.
Egg whites: may carry salmonella and cause infections in the genital area.
Lotion or soap: may contain irritants such as parabens or propylene glycol.
Sugar: Can lead to potential yeast infections.
Saliva: may transmit gonorrhea, etc.
How to Make Your Own Lube?
You can also make your own condom-compatible water-based lubricant at home using water and cornstarch. Here’s how to do it:
Mix ingredients: Add one cup of water and 4 teaspoons of cornstarch to a saucepan.
Heat: Place the stovetop over medium-low heat and gradually bring the liquid to a boil.
Stir: After boiling, stir mixture evenly for about 30 seconds.
Cool: Remove the pot from the heat and allow the mixture to cool before using.
Other tips for using homemade lubricants
Skin Test: Before using any new product, it is advisable to carry out several skin tests. Apply a small amount to a less sensitive area, such as your arm, and watch for any physical reaction after a few hours.
Consult a doctor: If you have concerns about any of the ingredients in a lubricant, consult a medical professional for help in choosing a lubricant with natural ingredients that is best for you.
Conclusion
Lubricants can greatly enhance sexual pleasure and minimize physical discomfort, but it is equally important to choose the right lubricant for your body. Making your own personal lubricant is a very simple and effective way to ensure that the products used are safe and free of harmful chemicals.
Natural ingredients are one of the best alternatives to chemical-heavy lubricants. Whether you use something like coconut oil, olive oil, aloe vera, avocado oil or vitamin E oil, or make your own lubricant with water and cornstarch, there are plenty of safe and reliable options available to you.
Always consider safety and comfort as your top priority, and if you have any questions or concerns, consult a healthcare professional.