Oil-Based Lube: Uses and Cautions

Oil based lube is the oldest lubricant in the book, and for good reason. Natural oils such as coconut, olive and almond have been used for centuries because they feel wonderfully thick, nourishing and long lasting. Oil based lubes are brilliant for massage, for solo play and for skin-to-skin contact, and they are a favourite of people who want a rich, cushioning glide that does not dry out.

That said, oil based lube comes with one very important rule that everyone should know before reaching for the bottle. In this guide we look at what oil based lube is, where it shines, the crucial caution around latex condoms, and how to choose and use it safely so you get the best from it.

What Oil Based Lube Is

Oil based lubricants are made from natural or mineral oils rather than water or silicone. They include plant oils such as coconut, olive, jojoba and almond oil, as well as specially blended products designed for intimate use. Because they are oil based, they do not evaporate like water based lubes, which means they stay slippery for a very long time and rarely need topping up, even during long sessions.

Oil based lubes also have a wonderfully thick, cushioning feel that many people love. They glide smoothly and generously, and they are kind to the skin, leaving it soft and moisturised rather than dry and tight. For massage and for skin-on-skin play, nothing quite matches the luxurious sensation of a good oil based lubricant.

Where Oil Based Lube Shines

Oil based lube is perfect for massage, where its rich glide and skin nourishing properties really come into their own. It is also excellent for solo play, for external stimulation and for sex without condoms where both partners are sure of their STI status and pregnancy risk. For anyone who wants deep, lasting glide that does not need constant reapplying, oil based lube is a superb choice.

The YES Natural Plant-Oil Based Personal Lubricant 80ml is a beautifully formulated example, made from organic plant oils and designed specifically for intimate use. Similarly, the Sliquid Soul Coconut Oil Moisturiser is a gentle, body friendly option that doubles as a skin moisturiser. When paired with plenty of care, these natural oils deliver a rich, comfortable experience that many people prefer over any other type of lube.

Oil based lube is also a firm favourite for sex toys that are not made from latex, such as silicone, glass and metal toys. Since it lasts so long, it pairs beautifully with a longer, more relaxed session, and it rinses off these materials easily with warm water and a little toy cleaner. Just avoid oil based lube with toys made from softer porous materials, which can absorb oil and become damaged over time.

As with any new product, take your time when trying an oil based lubricant for the first time. Apply a small amount to your skin and wait a little while to check for any reaction, especially if you have sensitive skin or a history of allergies. If all is well, enjoy the rich, nourishing glide, and keep a water based lube on hand for condom-friendly play and everyday use with toys.

The Latex Condom Warning

Here is the crucial caution: oil based lube must never be used with latex condoms. Oils break down latex, weakening the material so it is far more likely to tear or break during use. That means coconut oil, massage oils, olive oil and any other oil based lubricant are off the table whenever a latex condom is involved, because a broken condom removes all your protection.

If you want to use condoms and prefer an oil based lube, you must switch to non-latex options such as polyisoprene or polyurethane condoms, which are safe with oils. For everyone using standard latex condoms, the safe choices are water based and silicone based lubricants, which are completely condom compatible. Our guide to water, silicone and oil based lubes compares all three types in detail.

Choosing and Using Oil Based Lube Safely

If you decide oil based lube is right for you, choose a product designed for intimate use rather than a random bottle of massage oil, since specialist formulas are tested for body safety and tend to avoid additives that irritate delicate skin. The hybrid and oil based lubricants range is a good place to browse body safe options.

Oil based lube is also best avoided for internal vaginal use if you are prone to irritation or thrush, since oils can disrupt the natural balance for some people. It is also harder to wash off than water based lube, so you will usually need a little soap or a gentle cleanser to remove it from skin, sheets and toys. Always check the labels of any products you combine, and patch test before full use.

If you prefer something simpler for everyday use with toys and partners, a water based lube like the Lubido Water Based Lubricant 30ml is a dependable, versatile choice. Many people keep both an oil based lube for massage and a water based lube for everyday play, giving them the best of every world.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is coconut oil safe to use as lube?

Coconut oil is safe for many people for solo and skin-to-skin play, but it is not safe with latex condoms and can upset the natural balance for some. Patch test and use it with care.

Can oil based lube be used with all condoms?

No. Oil based lube weakens latex condoms and must only be used with non-latex options such as polyisoprene or polyurethane. Water and silicone based lubes are safe with all condoms.

Does oil based lube last longer than water based?

Yes. Oil based lube does not evaporate or absorb as quickly, so it stays slippery much longer. That is one of its main advantages for long sessions and massage.

Choose the Right Lube for Every Occasion

Oil based lube is wonderful when used correctly. Browse our hybrid and oil based options and our full range of lubricants to find the perfect bottle for massage, solo play and everything in between. We ship across the UK in discreet packaging.