These Expert-Approved Anal Lubes Make Butt Play More Comfortable

Water-based lube

If you’re using sex toys, Taormino recommends using water-based lube; silicone-based lubricants can actually break down the silicone covering most vibrators, which isn’t ideal. It’s popular because it washes away with water and is much less likely to leave stains than other formulas; it also makes great lube for sensitive skin, especially with soothing ingredients like aloe. But water-based lubes tend to dry out quicker than other types, meaning you might have to reapply mid-sex.

Silicone-based lube

“[Silicone lubes] are a top choice for many booty pleasure enthusiasts because of their staying power,” says Matatas. Most sex toys are off-limits when you’re using silicone lube—but options like stainless-steel and glass dildos are fair game. Similar to water-based lube, silicone-based formulas are condom-safe.

Oil-based lube

Another long-lasting option, oil-based lube is a great choice for anyone planning on enjoying plenty of me-time or partner play. Be sure to avoid oil-based lubricants when using latex condoms; go for silicone or water-based lube to avoid breakage. Oil is safe to use with silicone toys, however. (If you love your current set of sheets, you might want to swap them out or use a sex blanket to avoid stains.)

Hybrid lube

If you pay close attention to the formulas, you’ll come across hybrid lubes—blends of two or more of the three base materials. As mentioned, anything with silicone shouldn’t be used with silicone toys; anything with oil shouldn’t be used with condoms.

Is numbing anal lube safe?

“Numbing lubes are technically safe in terms of being made for the body, but not safe for engaging in actual anal play,” Javay Frye-Nekrasova, MEd, a sex educator and Lovehoney sex expert tells Glamour. “Numbing lubes make it more difficult for you to feel what is happening during anal play, and you need to be able to feel things to know if something is wrong, which is why it’s not recommended to use them for anal.”

You won’t find any numbing lubes on this list, but you will find stimulating options—lubricants that offer hot, cold, or tingly sensations—which Frye-Nekrasova says are a safer alternative. Be sure to patch-test them like a new skin care product, since you might be sensitive to them. “You also want to be conscious of where you use them. For example, stimulating lubes may not be the best to use if you are going to engage in oral sex, as it might have a weird or unpleasant taste,” says Frye-Nekrasova.

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The best anal lubes

Ready to dive into the wonderful world of backdoor play? These anal lubes come highly recommended by sex experts and reviewers alike—and you’re in for a great time with any of them.