A lubricant is not a trivial accessory. It is even very often part of an essential sexual ritual to enjoy an intimate moment with complete peace of mind. But, for different reasons, not all products suit us. Those sold commercially — based on water, hyaluronic acid or silicone — do not always please us and make us want to do things differently. Because it is also possible to use natural lubricants, which must be chosen carefully so as not to cause unwanted side effects. Guillemette Stevens, sexologist and marriage counselor, takes stock.
Lubricants: natural products, but not without danger
Although the female body produces the best natural lubricant, that is, love juice, sometimes it needs a boost. And our kitchen or other specialized stores are full of interesting substances. These natural products are in greater demand, particularly in recent years, because the fear of suffering the effects of endocrine disruptors influences our choices. They still need to be chosen carefully for this particularly sensitive area of the body. “We don’t take just anything“, immediately warns Guillemette Stevens, who advises monitoring our use of essential oils. “We realized that by using, for example, coconut oil, the body can report allergies. Knowing that the vagina has an acidic PH and vegetable oils a neutral PH, this can create an imbalance“, adds the expert.
The sexologist also mentions the use of almond oil, which can be interesting, but recommends changing lubricant regularly when it is homemade and not being heavy-handed. Using the same product can cause allergic reactions, and essential oils are too concentrated, which can cause serious burns. “There are active ingredients that are quite powerful in natural products, but they must be used sparingly. Just because it’s natural doesn’t mean it’s safe.“, she recalls.
A homemade lubricant according to its practices
The context of the use of these natural lubricants is also important. Certain substances are, for example, not recommended for oral sex and it is therefore advisable to inform yourself according to your practices. “When using vegetable oils, it is good to ask specialists, because some have an influence on hormones. You have to be careful who uses them and how“, explains Guillemette Stevens. She also recommends using aloe vera gel in small doses, because this substance is not compatible with a sex toy.
In any case, Guillemette Stevens indicates that it is possible to use whatever you find on hand, as long as this use is punctual. “We apply the same way as a classic lubricant without overdoing it, because they are fatty materials. It will last longer than a water-based lubricant.“, reminds our expert. You should also carry out an allergy test on your skin to check that the substance does not cause any side effects.
Aside from these oils and other gels, what about saliva? Particularly effective and undoubtedly the most used natural lubricant, it must also be handled with caution: contamination, such as a sexually transmitted infection (STI), is in fact possible.
Read also:
⋙ Sex after 50: putting an end to preconceived ideas about lubricants
⋙ Vaginal dryness during menopause: causes, frequency, solutions
⋙ Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GUMS): definition, symptoms and treatments