Sexual wellbeing
Lubricant Guide for Men: Choosing the Right Lube Safely
Lubricant can make sex more comfortable and help with condoms, dryness and sensitivity. Learn the types of lube, which are condom-safe, and what to avoid.
In short: Choosing a lubricant can make sex more comfortable, reduce friction and help condoms work properly. Water-based and silicone-based lubes are safe with latex condoms. Oil-based products such as petroleum jelly, baby oil or coconut oil can break latex condoms.
Why lube is worth using
Lubricant isn’t only for “problems”. It can:
- Make sex more comfortable and pleasurable for both partners
- Reduce friction, soreness and small skin tears
- Help prevent condoms from breaking
- Help after childbirth, during breastfeeding or menopause, when partners may have less natural moisture – see sex after a baby
- Reduce irritation for men with sensitive skin
Types of lubricant
Water-based
- Safe with all condoms and sex toys
- Easy to wash off
- May dry out, so you may need to reapply
- Choose options without glycerine or strong fragrances if you or your partner are prone to irritation or thrush
Silicone-based
- Long-lasting and slippery
- Safe with latex condoms
- Not suitable for silicone toys
- Harder to wash off
Oil-based
- Includes coconut oil, baby oil, petroleum jelly and massage oils
- Breaks down latex condoms – never use with latex
- Can trap bacteria and may raise infection risk for some partners
What to avoid
- Lotions, soaps, shampoo or saliva as substitutes
- Products with “warming”, “tingling” or numbing ingredients if you’re sensitive
- Perfumed products if you or your partner get irritation or thrush – see thrush in men
Lube and premature ejaculation
More lube can increase sensation for some men and reduce it for others. If you’re working on lasting longer, experiment and combine with techniques such as premature ejaculation exercises. Be cautious with numbing “delay” products – see do delay sprays work?.
Lube and masturbation
Using lube and a lighter grip can help men who have reduced sensitivity from a tight grip. See death grip syndrome.
Lube and condoms
Adding a little water- or silicone-based lube on the outside of a condom reduces friction and breakage. Read how to choose the right condom size.
When dryness or pain needs a check
Ongoing pain during sex for either partner should be checked by an appropriately registered medical professional. See why does my penis hurt after sex?.
How we can help
Our naturopath in Sandton offers discreet advice on comfort, sensitivity and sexual wellbeing as part of a natural, non-surgical plan.
Why men choose our natural approach
Walk in or consult remotely
Walk in at Buccleuch, Sandton, with parking available, or consult by phone or video from anywhere in South Africa.
Natural and non-surgical
Herbal remedies and practical guidance, with no injections or surgery.
Faster appointments
Enquiries answered 24/7, with same-day appointments often available.
Transparent pricing
Consultations are R2,500, with any remedy costs confirmed before you commit.
Private self-check: 5 quick questions
Answer these honestly before you try anything new or book. They help you describe what is happening and get more from your first consultation.
- Do you usually climax within about a minute or two of penetration?
- Has this been happening for six months or longer?
- Do you feel you have little control over when you ejaculate?
- Do you also have trouble getting or keeping an erection?
- Is it causing you or your partner distress or avoidance of sex?
Several yes answers suggest a structured plan could help. If you have pain, burning or blood with ejaculation, see an appropriately registered medical professional first. A naturopath can help with natural support alongside medical care.
What happens at your first consultation
- Walk in or book online, call +27 10 205 9855 or WhatsApp +27 81 823 1313. In Gauteng, walk in at 199 Vanessa Street, Buccleuch, Sandton, where parking is available. Outside Gauteng, choose a confidential phone or video consultation. Enquiries are answered 24/7.
- Talk privately with a naturopath about your symptoms, health history, lifestyle and goals.
- Receive a personalised natural plan, with any remedy costs confirmed upfront.
- Follow up in person or remotely so your progress is reviewed and your plan adjusted.
Your health and safety
Our naturopaths use natural remedies and lifestyle support, and always check your health history and current medicines first. If anything needs medical attention we tell you honestly and refer you to an appropriately registered medical professional. Avoid unregistered “enhancement” products sold online or at markets, as SAHPRA has warned that some contain hidden ingredients.
Seek urgent medical care for chest pain, an erection lasting more than four hours, sudden weakness or other sudden symptoms.
Consultation price
A consultation is R2,500, in person or remote, and your naturopath confirms any further costs before you go ahead. See our mens clinic prices for details.
Frequently asked questions
Which lube is safe with condoms?
Water-based and silicone-based lubricants are safe with latex condoms.
Can I use coconut oil as lube?
Coconut oil and other oils can break latex condoms and should be avoided with them.
Is lube only for women?
No. Lube can make sex more comfortable for both partners and reduce friction for men too.
Can lube help with premature ejaculation?
Effects vary. Some men find it changes sensation. It is most useful combined with techniques for lasting longer.
Can lube cause irritation?
Some lubes with glycerine, fragrance or warming agents can irritate sensitive skin. Choose simple formulas.
How much does a consultation cost?
A consultation is R2,500, and any remedy costs are confirmed with you before you go ahead.
Book your consultation today
Walk in at our Sandton practice any time, day or night, or book ahead. Outside Gauteng? Book a remote consultation.
References and further reading
Reviewed by George Mulaudzi, Naturopath. This page is general information and does not replace a personal consultation. If you have chest pain, sudden symptoms or a medical emergency, seek urgent medical care.
