Best Silicone-Based Anal Lubes

Silicone lube is made from silicones — which are body-safe — and is ideal for anal sex thanks to its long-lasting durability and extremely slippery feel.

It’s luxurious, decadent, and feels wonderful with sex toys, but it isn’t safe to use with toys also made from silicone, as it will degrade their materials.

If you plan to have anal sex with a fluid-bonded partner, a silicone-based anal lube might be a great fit.

It is very silky and soft, and it never dries out, so it’s bound to last as long as you do.

Consensus Top Pick: Gun Oil

Consensus Top Pick (Silicone)

GUN OIL

4.7

$30.95 (4 oz)

[Note: Get GUN OIL for only $16.99. Use code AFF-WH15 and get 15% off site-wide at Lovehoney — a specially negotiated discount we secured after independent review.]

Pros:

• Developed By Marines, This Lube Keeps Your Private’s (Parts) Performing Like A Well-Oiled Machine
• Formulated For Long-Lasting Lubrication During Solo Playtime Or Partnered Sex
• Vitamin E And Aloe Vera Add Soothing Moisturization During Vaginal And Anal Sex
• Waterproof For Sensual & Sexy Play In The Bath Or Shower; Compatible With All Condom Types

Cons:

• Packaging Is Not At All Subtle
• Marketed Almost Exclusively To Men (Even Though Lubricant Is For Everyone), Which Could Be A Turn-Off To Some
• Cannot Be Used With Silicone Sex Toys
• First Time Opening Can Be Frustrating

Anal Comfort:

4.7

Performance:

4.5

Skin Feel:

5.0

Ease Of Cleanup:

4.0

Bottle Design:

3.0

Bottom Line: GUN OIL may be a little over the top with its packaging (and marketed primarily toward men), but it is a fantastic way to keep things running smoothly when anal sex is on the menu regardless of gender. Waterproof and compatible with all condoms, our testing team found that this lube lasts for an exceptionally long time while staying silky for maximum enjoyment and the addition of vitamin E and aloe vera provides soothing moisturization for even those with the most sensitive skin.

$16.99 @ Lovehoney –> CODE: AFF-WH15 $26.99 @ The Enhanced Male

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This ultra-concentrated silicone lubricant is ideal for anal sex because it doesn’t have an extensive ingredient list and is very long-lasting — just don’t let the slightly obnoxious bottle design dissuade you from trying it.

GUN OIL has a smooth and mildly thick texture which provides a lovely, slippery cushion during anal penetration.

Its limited ingredient list, which includes vitamin E and aloe leaf extract, is especially ideal for people with sensitive skin.

Developed by Marines, GUN OIL has a pretty interesting story behind its creation, being based on actual gun oil that was regularly used for masturbation by servicemembers while they were stationed far from home:

One of our team members really liked this lube:

“[GUN OIL] was far and away better than all others I tested, and I don’t care if you’re a man or a woman. 

When something delivers the results you want (smooth, silky texture that lasts a long time, and feels great during and after sex with no tackiness) that’s all that matters.”

If you’re into water play, GUN OIL is a perfect lube because it’s completely waterproof.

During our testing, we found that it keeps going strong in the shower — far longer than most other silicone lubes we tried.

It won’t rinse away with water alone, yet it’s easy to clean up with soap and water.

GUN OIL doesn’t dry out or become tacky during use, so you can enjoy a long-lasting anal sex session without needing to pause and find the bottle over and over.

Like a well-oiled machine, this one always stays smooth — all the way through to the end.

Despite its über-macho bottle design (which may not appeal to everyone) GUN OIL is our number one silicone-based anal lube pick based on formula and performance alone.

(If it helps, once you’ve removed the gold plastic from the lid, it looks much less like a bullet.)

→ Learn more* about GUN OIL or check pricing*.

Also Good: Sliquid Silver

Also Good (Silicone)

Sliquid Silver

4.3

$34.00 (4.2 oz)

[Note: Get Sliquid Silver for only $25.49. Use code AFF-WH15 and get 15% off site-wide at Lovehoney — a specially negotiated discount we secured after independent review.]

Pros:

• Made From The Highest-Grade, Ultra Concentrated Silicone For Maximum Slip
• Just A Few Drops Is All That’s Needed For Lasting Endurance And Optimal Comfort
• Lightweight Texture Doesn’t Feel Tacky Or Greasy And Is Perfect For Those Who Don’t Want A Super-Thick Lube For Anal
• Waterproof For Sensual & Sexy Play In The Bath Or Shower; Compatible With All Condom Types

Cons:

• Bottle Cap Can Leak And Some Reviewers Didn’t Like The Texture On Bare Skin
• Cannot Be Used With Silicone Sex Toys

Anal Comfort:

4.0

Performance:

4.0

Skin Feel:

4.1

Ease Of Cleanup:

2.8

Bottle Design:

3.3

Bottom Line: Sliquid Silver is made from pharmaceutical-grade silicone, which is perfect for those with sensitive skin, and it features a lightweight texture that provides plenty of slip. Still, it may be a little too thin for those who prefer a really thick anal lube. Despite its light consistency, it offers ample staying power for longer anal sex sessions, doesn’t require constant reapplication, and won’t leave a sticky residue behind.

$25.49 @ Lovehoney –> CODE: AFF-WH15 $27.99 @ HotCherry

When you purchase a product through an affiliate link, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. On behalf of our entire team, thank you in advance for your support!

With even fewer ingredients than GUN OIL, simplicity is Sliquid Silver’s secret weapon.

The texture is lightweight but with exceptional endurance that allows it to stay on without feeling like you’re covered in Crisco.

Lacking any scent or taste and leaving your skin feeling smooth and supple after use, Sliquid Silver is an invisible powerhouse in the bedroom.

One of our testers raved about Silver:

“It was really luxurious, lasted a long time (even after heavy and extensive rubbing on the surface of the skin or during penetration) and yet, when it did finally dry out it left a smooth and silky texture on the skin rather than a tacky weird one like other silicone lubes.

During anal sex, it was not even noticeable (in a good way) and never once needed reapplication.”

While the lube itself works wonders, the bottle leaves a bit to be desired.

The cap is prone to leakage. It will leak (of course) if it isn’t closed all the way, but even when closing the cap, at least a small drop of lube will escape from the tip — which then runs down the side of the bottle.

(It’s worth noting, however, that this particular issue is common with Sliquid lubricants, as they all feature the same basic bottle and cap design.)

Overall, Sliquid Silver covers all the bases as an anal lube: it has a smooth texture that’s long-lasting, waterproof, and feels great on the skin while providing plenty of comfortable lubrication during anal penetration.

→ Learn more* about Sliquid Silver or check pricing*.

Best Oil-Based Anal Lubes

Oil-based lube is excellent for anal sex because it never dries out and is extremely moisturizing.

Often made using naturally-derived oils, however, this type of lube is not safe to use with latex or polyisoprene condoms.

Some oil-based personal lubricants can be used as a massage oil, so it’s like getting a 2-for-1 product!

Consensus Top Pick: AH YES OB

Consensus Top Pick (Oil)

AH! YES OB

4.8

$21.99 (4.7 oz)

[Note: Get AH! YES OB for only $18.70, a specially negotiated discount we secured after independent review.]

[Read Our Full Review]

Pros:

• One Of The Few Lubricants That Meets The Soil Association’s Organic Standards; Certified as 99% Organic
• Extremely Hydrating And Long-Lasting Because It’s Oil-Based
• Waterproof; Safe For Condoms Made From Polyurethane, Nitrile, Or Lambskin
• No Added Flavors, Fragrances, Or Dyes
• Great For Vaginal And Anal Sex

Cons:

• Not For Use With Latex Or Polyisoprene Condoms
• Sweet Almond Oil Or Sunflower Seed Oil Could Be Allergens To Some
• Not Safe For Oral Sex, As Its Thickness May Present A Choking Hazard
• No Pump Dispenser So Application Can Be Messy

Anal Comfort:

4.5

Performance:

4.6

Skin Feel:

4.4

Ease Of Cleanup:

4.7

Bottle Design:

4.6

Bottom Line: The best in natural and organic lubricants, AH! YES OB is a luxurious organic lube that performs beautifully during anal sex — as long as you won’t be using condoms made from latex or polyisoprene. This product features a thick texture and a skin-friendly formula that’s ideal for anyone who wants a hydrating, waterproof lubricant made with the very best ingredients.

$18.70 @ AH! YES –> CODE: WHI $18.70 @ Lovehoney –> CODE: AFF-WH15

When you purchase a product through an affiliate link, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. On behalf of our entire team, thank you in advance for your support!

AH! YES OB is the best of the best oil-based lubes on the market right now.

We loved this lube – and not just for anal sex.

Made with safe and hydrating ingredients that add lots of comfort and moisture to your most sensitive backdoor bits, this lube is thick as hell — which helps to alleviate any penetration-related pain.

In our experience, it does have a bit of a grainy texture, at least in the beginning until it warms and “melts” from the heat of your skin.

AH! YES OB is made from 99% organic ingredients — which shows the level of care that went into this product’s development.

The same goes for the gorgeous packaging.

The box looks like an expensive cosmetic, while the bottle could be mistaken for high-end lotion at first glance.

In fact, speaking of lotion, during and after use, having this lube on your skin will feel luxurious and supple, with no tackiness or greasy feeling.

As with all oil-based lubes, this one cannot be used with latex or polyisoprene condoms because it breaks down their materials — which is the one major drawback when using it as an anal lube.

It is safe for use with those made from polyurethane, nitrile, or lambskin, although the latter offers no protection against STIs.

AH! YES OB is made with all-natural ingredients including sunflower oil, shea butter, and vitamin E.

AH! YES OB soothes and heals sensitive skin, which is why this particular lube is great for anal sex.

It is supremely moisturizing and since it’s oil-based, it won’t dry out.

As our Editor-In-Chief Alison Huff noted in her personal review of AH! YES OB:

“Initially, I was surprised at just how thick this lube was straight out of the bottle. It felt slightly grainy at first and I was a little worried about how the texture would feel when I was actually using it.

However, I found that rubbing the lube between my hands melted the oils and butters perfectly to give the product a smooth, pleasant, and very rich texture.

AH! YES OB is incredibly slippery. Surprisingly, it wasn’t greasy and once I washed it off, my skin was left feeling velvet-soft and nourished.”

One of our testers was blown away by AH! YES OB after using it as an anal lube:

“Overall, I think this was my favorite lube I’ve tried of any kind — water, silicone, or oil-based…For its intended purpose of anal sex, it passed with flying colors!”

This lube is also a great choice for shower or bath sex.

Since oil and water don’t mix, this one will stick (and slick) where it needs to while everything else washes away.

Like many oil-based lubes, you’ll want to read through the ingredient list, particularly if you have nut or seed allergies because this product uses sweet almond and sunflower seed oil in its formula.

Based on its performance in the bedroom, however, it’s our top oil-based anal lube recommendation.

→ Learn more* about AH! YES OB or check pricing*.

Also Good: Organic Glide

Also Good (Oil)

Organic Glide Probiotic All Natural Personal Lubricant

4.7

$34.95 $22.95 ($9.18 / Ounce)

Pros:

• Organic Probiotic Formula May Be Beneficial To Those Prone To Vaginal Or Urinary Tract Infections
• Relieves Vaginal Dryness & A Little Goes A Long Way
• A Rare Oil-Based Lube That Is Edible; No Added Flavors, Fragrances, Or Dyes
• Waterproof; Safe For Condoms Made From Polyurethane, Nitrile, Or Lambskin; Claims To Be Non-Staining
• Great For Oral, Vaginal, And Anal Sex

Cons:

• Not For Use With Latex Or Polyisoprene Condoms, Dental Dams, Or Latex Diaphragms
• Inclusion Of Argan Oil Means Some People With Tree Nut Allergies May Need To Avoid It
• No Pump Dispenser So Application Can Be Messy
• Can Stain Fabric

Anal Comfort:

4.7

Performance:

4.5

Skin Feel:

4.7

Ease Of Cleanup:

4.6

Bottle Design:

4.7

Bottom Line: Organic Glide Probiotic All Natural Personal Lubricant is a velvety oil-based lube that enhances almost any sexual activity and it’s one of the rare edible lubes that can be used in wet environments like the shower. This lube, made from organic ingredients, also helps vaginal dryness and unlike the majority of oil-based lubes, uses a non-staining formula that won’t wreck your bedding!

Check Price

When you purchase a product through an affiliate link, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. On behalf of our entire team, thank you in advance for your support!

03/25/2023 10:57 am GMT

Besides aesthetically gorgeous packaging, Organic Glide shares AH! YES OB’s commitment to using natural ingredients.

Organic Glide comes out of the bottle as a thick and opaque gel that melts into a buttery smooth oil with body heat.

Providing both comfort and staying power, Organic Glide is a fantastic natural lube for anal sex as long as you aren’t using condoms made from latex or polyisoprene.

One of our testers was impressed by Organic Glide before they even tried it:

“The moment I poured some onto my fingers and started rolling it around my index/middle finger and thumb, it was like ‘Holy sh*t, this stuff is amazing!

Like, right away you could FEEL the silkiness, longevity, slipperiness, and quality of it.”

Despite being made from botanical ingredients, Organic Glide doesn’t have any odor or taste that might distract you and spoil the mood.

The formula allows for longer bouts of playtime without the need for reapplication and although we’re recommending this product specifically for anal sex, it is entirely safe for vaginal and oral sex, as well.

While most oil-based lubes stain fabrics and can be a pain to wash off, Organic Glide stands out for its easy cleanup — during our testing, we found that it washes out of fabrics easily and does NOT stain.

We have to wonder if wizards made this product — an oil that doesn’t stain? Who dreamed that was possible?

Our testers noted that although it performs well in the shower (it is waterproof), you generally need to shower after using it if you want to remove it thoroughly from your skin.

Overall, however, Organic Glide is one of our favorite oil-based anal lubes and it’s definitely one worth trying if you’re not using condoms made from latex or polyisoprene.

→ Learn more* about Organic Glide or check pricing*.

The Performance Of Anal Lubricants

Above all things, anal lubricants should generally have a texture that is thicker than most other types of lube, providing long-lasting slickness that makes anal penetration more comfortable — while preventing injury to the anus at the same time.

Depending on the formula, anal lubricants may have a thick, jelly-like consistency or one that is heavy and slippery.

In our experience, some oil-based anal lubes feel a little odd at first — featuring a texture that’s thick and sometimes even grainy — but once the product warms from body heat and friction, the lube will “melt” and become very slippery.

This is great news for those of us who are sensitive to textures.

Anal lubes with a water base are generally suitable for all condom types and sex toys, however, they will not withstand use in the bath or shower.

Unfortunately, to date, we have not yet been able to find a water-based lubricant with an anal-safe pH.

Silicone or oil-based anal lubricants perform well in wet environments so they’re excellent choices for anal play in the bath or shower, but they are far more likely to stain fabrics.

There are also limitations on both in terms of compatibility with sex toys and condoms of various materials.

In general, silicone anal lubricants cannot be used with sex toys made from silicone, as the lube will degrade their material.

Most silicone lubes are compatible with all condom types.

Oil-based anal lubricants will degrade condoms made from latex or polyisoprene.

Although they are safe for use with those made from nitrile, polyurethane, or lambskin, the latter does not offer STI protection.

Additionally, oil-based anal lubes cannot be used with sex toys made from latex, rubber, or jelly rubber, as they will degrade their materials.

When considering any anal lubricant’s performance, we took into account the different preferences some might have by including lubricants with varied bases and use intents — specifically with condoms or toys.

This also included formulations that would work well in water.

Our team then tested how each of our finalists performed during anal intercourse (with AND without condoms, as applicable), and during clean-up to determine which anal lubes were the best.

As a result of our testing and research, we selected a variety of formulations, giving clear preference to those made from silicone or oil, as no water-based anal lubes met our criteria.

What Are Anal Lubes?

Since the anus doesn’t lubricate itself naturally like a vagina, anal lube adds moisture to delicate rectal tissues, easing pain during penetrative anal sex, soothing soreness, and increasing pleasure at the same time.

It also makes anal sex safer — which is important and often overlooked.

The right anal lube can lower the risk of STI transmission by reducing friction and making penetration easier while preventing injury to the anus.

Lubricated condoms, although they do provide a slippery texture, may not have enough lubricant on them for extended anal sex sessions, so you’ll still want to have anal lube handy.

When Should You Use An Anal Lube?

The answer to this is simple:

You should use an anal lube any (and every) time you engage in anal penetration.

It is never safe to have anal sex without lube.

How Is Anal Lube Different From Regular Lube?

Several characteristics make anal lubricants stand out from those used vaginally or orally:

• Their pH balance should be higher, if water-based: The pH balance of water-based anal lubricants should be higher than vaginal lubes. That’s because the pH of the anus is higher than that of the vagina.
• Their texture is thicker: Anal lubricants have a thicker consistency compared to other lubes. This adds comfort and eases pain during deep anal penetration.
• They last longer: Anal lubes, especially those made from oil or silicone, are longer-lasting than other lubricants. With any quality anal lube, you’ll find that a little goes a LONG way.
• They feel slicker to the touch: Anal lubes, particularly those made from silicone, typically feel extra silky and smooth to the touch. This creates more glide and reduces friction.

How Does Anal Numbing Or Desensitizing Lube Work?

Desensitizing or numbing lube is a controversial product among sexperts and doctors alike.

This type of lubricant is meant to numb the anus to dull pain and minimize discomfort.

That sounds good — in theory.

However, we don’t recommend using desensitizing lube because it can cause confusion with your body’s natural pain receptors and lead to injuries.

​​Dr. Justin Lehmiller is a social psychologist and the host of the Sex and Psychology Podcast and a member of our medical review board, he advised people to be very careful when using numbing lubes. He said:

“While [desensitizing lubricants] may temporarily increase comfort, too much desensitization can lead people to engage in longer or more aggressive sex than they otherwise would have, which can create a risk for injury.”

Especially during anal sex, the indication of pain is an important signal that lets our body communicate that something is wrong.

When you can’t feel an injury as it’s occurring, you won’t stop doing the activity that is causing it. In many cases, you’ll have no idea that anything is wrong until it’s way too late.

Additionally, desensitizing lube contains potentially unsafe numbing ingredients such as lidocaine or benzocaine.

These compounds can be irritating to rectal tissues and cause major discomfort.

How To Use An Anal Lube

Using anal lubricant is easy — apply a few drops to the anus and/or the penis, finger, or toy that will be penetrating it, and reapply as often as needed.

Your mileage may vary depending on the lube’s formula and how long your sexual activity lasts.

Pros And Cons Of Anal Lube

Anal lube is the best choice when you’re looking for a personal lubricant that will offer a texture that provides easier and more comfortable penetration during anal sex while preventing injury to delicate anal tissues.

If you intend to explore butt play — whether during intercourse or with toys — having an appropriate anal lube on hand is non-negotiable.

Anal Lube Pros:

• They have a texture that’s thick, allowing for comfortable anal penetration while protecting the anus from injury at the same time
• They are long-lasting and generally require little-to-no reapplication during use
• Some products are designed to relax anal muscles through the use of natural oils and safe ingredients, making penetration easier
• They are waterproof if silicone-based or oil-based
• They are compatible with all condoms if water-based or silicone-based
• They are compatible with all sex toys if water-based
• They are easy to clean up if water-based

Anal Lube Cons:

• Some anal lubes contain numbing agents (although none of our recommendations do), which can potentially result in unintended anal injury during use
• If water-based and truly pH-balanced for anal use, they are not compatible with vaginal sex, as the natural pH of the vagina (4.5) is lower than that of the anus (7-8)
• Those made from silicone or oil may stain sheets and fabrics
• Those made from silicone are generally not compatible with silicone sex toys
• If oil-based, they are not compatible with condoms made from latex or polyisoprene and they will degrade sex toys made from latex, rubber, or jelly rubber
• They are more difficult to clean up if silicone or oil-based

When Should You Use A Water-Based, Silicone, Or Oil-Based Anal Lube?

Personal lubricants are available in a variety of different formulas but they do not perform equally in every situation.

Before buying an anal lube, you should first consider the kind of sex you plan to have while using it — and whether it will involve any condoms or sex toys.

Here’s a cheat sheet for selecting the best anal lube based on how you intend to use it:

Lube Type:	Water-Based	Silicone-Based	Oil-Based
Oral Sex	Yes	Yes	Not usually
Vaginal Sex	ONLY if pH/Osmolality suitable	Yes	Yes
Anal Sex	ONLY if pH/Osmolality suitable	Yes	Yes
Condom Types	All	All	Polyurethane, nitrile and lambskin only
Sex Toy Types	All	All but silicone	All but latex
Bath/Shower Use	No	Yes	Yes
Does It Stain?	No	Yes	Yes

Lube Type:
Oral Sex
Vaginal Sex
Anal Sex
Condom Types
Sex Toy Types
Bath/Shower Use
Does It Stain?

Is Anal Lube Safe?

For the most part, yes.

When used as directed and made from body-safe ingredients that you or your partner are not allergic to or sensitive to, anal lube is completely safe.

It is important to understand, however, that not all anal lubes are safe.

One thing we discovered when researching anal lubricants, much to our dismay, related specifically to water-based products being marketed for anal use.

We found several potential products that passed our criteria for safe ingredients with flying colors, however, they failed to reach the necessary pH and osmolality levels required for safe anal use.

We discuss this in far more detail below.

Before using any new anal lubricant, it’s a good idea for you and your partner to do a patch test on the inner elbow to monitor the area for potential reactions before using them during anal sex.

Additionally, anal lubricants have a shelf life of between 1 and 3 years.

• Will Anal Sex Make Your Butt Bigger?

Anal sex will not make your butt bigger but it’s a reasonable thought.

Though the rectum does stretch during anal penetration or when using a butt plug or anal toy, it won’t permanently make your butt larger.

The use of anal lube will make anal penetration easier and much more comfortable, but you can rest assured that your butt (or anus) will not grow larger as a result.

What Are The Safest Ingredients For Anal Lube?

When you’re choosing an anal lubricant — or any lube, for that matter — you always want to select a product that uses the safest ingredients.

Safe anal lube ingredients include:

• Water
• Body-safe silicones
• Plant-based oils
• Vitamin E
• Aloe vera

What Anal Lube Ingredients Are Unsafe And Should Be Avoided?

Every booty deserves extra care and attention, which is why steering clear of harmful ingredients is essential.

Unsafe anal lube ingredients you should avoid include:

• Glycerin
• Parabens
• Petroleum
• Polyethylene Glycol
• Benzocaine
• Lidocaine
• Mineral Oil
• Added fragrances, flavors, or dyes
• Any other ingredients you and/or your partner is allergic or sensitive to

• Why You Need A Glycerin-Free Anal Lube

Most commonly found in water-based lubricants, glycerin is used as a thickening agent in lubes and is frequently sourced from animal fats and soybean oil.

It’s not safe to use in or on your genitals because it’s high in sugar content which could lead to bacterial growth and cause yeast infections and irritation.

• Why You Need A Paraben-Free Anal Lube

Often used as preservatives for cosmetic and pharmaceutical products, methyl parabens (often known simply as parabens) are not safe to ingest and can be highly irritating to your genitals.

Why (And When) Anal Lube pH And Osmolality Matter

You may have heard the terms “pH” and “osmolality” before but brushed them off as being some sort of science-based mumbo-jumbo.

When it comes to water-based anal lubricants, however, pH and osmolality matter greatly.

A typical and healthy rectal pH is between 7 and 8 which means that anal lubricants should be in a higher pH range, as well, between 5.5 to 7.

The pH of vaginal lubes is generally around 4.5, however.

The difference in pH might not sound like much but it is important to consider — using an anal lube with a pH that’s too low can lead to rectal irritation and possibly infection.

To ensure that you’re not throwing off the very important pH levels in your anal cavity, be sure to use a lube that is designed and marketed specifically for anal sex — one with a pH between 5.5 and 7.

It’s important to note that many water-based lubes are marketed for anal use, yet have a pH that is too low for the activity.

Lube osmolality matters just as much as pH.

Osmolality refers to the concentration of ingredients that are not water.

Lubricants that go above the WHO’s recommendations and standards for lube osmolality can potentially irritate your rectum and lead to irritation or infection.

As we mentioned earlier, pH and osmolality only affect lubricants that are water-based.

FDA Approval Of Personal Lubricants For Anal Sex

Personal lubricants of any type and regardless of their use during sexual activity are classified as “Class II medical devices” by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

To that end, lube manufacturers have to register their products for 510(k) clearance unless they are exempt from requiring this.

Regardless of having the clearance or exemption, the FDA has considered the product and you can trust that it’s approved for sale in the U.S.

All of our anal lubricant recommendations have either a registered 510(k) clearance certificate on file with the FDA as of this writing or were exempt from providing one.

Why Is It Hard To Find A Safe Water-Based Anal Lube?

Our list of top recommendations for anal lubes includes only products made from silicone or oil — which may leave you wondering about water-based anal lubes.

It’s no secret that our recommendations must meet very stringent requirements for inclusion because your personal safety is very important to us.

We deeply research every product before deeming it safe — or not.

The truth is that most water-based lubes contain glycerin, which eliminates the majority of products from consideration entirely.

Studies suggest that glycerin promotes yeast infections by killing good bacteria and yes — anal yeast infections are a thing.

Those products that don’t contain glycerin often include unsafe ingredients like guarana and ginseng, which could be irritating — so those cannot be considered, either.

The water-based anal lubes that actually pass our ingredient test must then pass the requirements for anal-safe pH and osmolality — and this is where the remaining candidates typically fail.

When anal pH is disrupted by a lube whose pH is too low and better suited for vaginal use, rectal tissue can become irritated or damaged, leaving it more prone to infection.

We performed very deep research and to our surprise and dismay, discovered that several “great” water-based lubes that are being marketed for anal sex have a low pH that is best suited to the vagina — not the anus – or osmolality readings that are inappropriate for safe consideration.

The very few remaining products that have safe ingredients, appropriate pH, and safe osmolality are either unavailable at this time or they are from new and/or unreputable companies we are still gathering information on.

For this reason, we currently do not recommend ANY water-based anal lubricants as safe but are working on finding options we trust.

Anal Lube Alternatives: Safe (And Unsafe) Home DIY Remedies

It’s best to stick with specially formulated anal lubes for the reasons we’ve outlined, but in a pinch, there are some mostly safe home anal lube alternatives you can try.

• If you are thinking about using one, however, look over this complete list of anal lube alternatives first.

Do I Need Anal Lube?

If you intend to have anal sex (or anal penetration of any kind), yes.

The anus doesn’t provide its own moisture or lube, so unless you want anal sex to be painful and possibly lead to injury, pick up a bottle.

Does It Need To Be Specifically Anal Lube?

Not necessarily.

Regular intimate lubes can do in a pinch, provided they are anal-safe in terms of pH or osmolality (when applicable) and have a consistency that enhances comfort and reduces friction during anal penetration.

This is a case of “the best tool for the job”— anal lubes are thicker with longer-lasting formulas compared to personal lubricants of the general variety.

How Much Anal Lube Should I Use?

That is up to your comfort level, but there’s no need to slather on a boatload.

Anal lubes are made so you can use a few drops or a small squirt to get the party started and they should last without needing to reapply often (if at all).

That said, it really comes down to a lubricant’s formula, the amount you apply, and the length of sexual activity.

When in doubt, apply more than you think you need.