2008 Woodie Awards
Bring back that lovin' feeling
Lauren Engelbert
Issue date: 3/26/08 Section: Media & Entertainment
Of course, even after narrowing my choices down to silicone- and water-based lubes, there are still an overwhelming variety of choices available. The brand Durex, for instance, manufactures at least eight different varieties, from "warming" to "tingling" to "soothing" to "pina colada flavored." One variety, Durex's "longer" lubricant, supposedly helps men last longer with the help of a mild numbing agent.
And this seemingly needless variety aside, you may ask, what is the point of using lube at all? With almost any kind of sexually stimulating contact, there is a certain amount of friction that is necessary for it to really feel good. However, too much friction is usually not fun for any of the parties involved. This is where lube can be really helpful. For extended love-making sessions, lube can stave off any dryness and keep everything sliding smoothly for as long as the parties involved desire to keep the fun going. Lube can also be great for masturbation, with or without sex toys.
In general, the best way to decide what lubricant is best for you is to try several different varieties out and see what works best. Some criteria to avoid are lubes that are either absorbed too quickly into the skin or become thickened, sticky or gummy after prolonged use.
In the past year, Australian researchers have developed a sex lube with a social conscience. Called "Viva Gel," its anti-viral properties could aid in blocking the transmission of HIV and genital herpes. Safety trials are still underway in humans, but its effectiveness looks promising. They are particularly hoping its potential benefits could reduce the spread of AIDS in Africa.
Whatever your preference, researching and experimenting with different brands for their consistencies and prices will result in your optimal love potion. No matter where you are and what you may be doing, there is most likely some kind of lubricant that can safely enhance your experience.
And this seemingly needless variety aside, you may ask, what is the point of using lube at all? With almost any kind of sexually stimulating contact, there is a certain amount of friction that is necessary for it to really feel good. However, too much friction is usually not fun for any of the parties involved. This is where lube can be really helpful. For extended love-making sessions, lube can stave off any dryness and keep everything sliding smoothly for as long as the parties involved desire to keep the fun going. Lube can also be great for masturbation, with or without sex toys.
In general, the best way to decide what lubricant is best for you is to try several different varieties out and see what works best. Some criteria to avoid are lubes that are either absorbed too quickly into the skin or become thickened, sticky or gummy after prolonged use.
In the past year, Australian researchers have developed a sex lube with a social conscience. Called "Viva Gel," its anti-viral properties could aid in blocking the transmission of HIV and genital herpes. Safety trials are still underway in humans, but its effectiveness looks promising. They are particularly hoping its potential benefits could reduce the spread of AIDS in Africa.
Whatever your preference, researching and experimenting with different brands for their consistencies and prices will result in your optimal love potion. No matter where you are and what you may be doing, there is most likely some kind of lubricant that can safely enhance your experience.
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