Lubricant is a welcome addition to any sexual activity, whether you're engaging in solo play or are with a partner. For women, lubrication doesn't always come naturally, due to hormonal fluctuations, stress, or age. And for men, the natural lubrication provided by the penis during the arousal process is usually not sufficient enough on its own. The use of a synthetic sexual lubrication in addition to or in place of natural lubrication can make a big difference in comfort, and of course pleasure.

The three most common types of lubricants are water based, oil based, and silicone based. Each lubricant has advantages and disadvantages to its use, but all three can greatly enhance comfort and pleasure during sexual activities.

Water based lubricants: Water based lubricants are generally the most popular choice because of their ease of use, their compatibility with condoms and sex toys, regardless of their materials. Water based lubricants are also the easiest to clean up when playtime is over. While water based lubricant goes on smoothly and spreads easily, it also tends to dry a little faster than other types of lubricants. Keep a small saucer of water within arms reach and dip a couple of fingers into it, then drizzle onto where the lubricant has begun to dry to re-activate it. Also, individuals who are allergic to glycerine or similar materials may not want to use water based lubricants, as glycerine and similar materials are frequently used in water based lubricants and have been known to trigger yeast infections and other minor, yet irritating, allergic reactions. Just be sure to check ahead of time to see what is in the lubricant if you are a person with these types of allergies. In general, men do not have to worry about this issue.

Oil based lubricants: Oil based lubricants is a little messier to apply and more difficult to clean up after than water based lubricants. However, oil based lubricants tend to spreads easier and a little bit goes a long way, so for some acts, such as massage during foreplay it is a better choice. Also, oil based lubricant generally has longer staying power than water based, which is ideal for longer sessions. One important note: oil based lubricants are not compatible with latex condoms, as the oil in the lubricant will break down the latex, which can result in a condom that fails to protect against STDs or pregnancy.

Silicone based lubricants: Silicone based lubricants are often an ideal choice because they last longer than water based and sometimes longer than even oil based lubricants. Silicone based lubricants can also be used safely with latex sex toys. However, silicone based lubricants cannot be used with silicone sex toys, as the materials will bond together and break down, which will result in damaged toys. There are a coupe of lubricants on the market which are silicone / water-based hybrids that have been tested with silicone toys and are safe. One of the best is Fusion Double Impact.

So, if you're new to sexual lubricants, try experimenting with one or more types to get a feel for what feels good and works well for you, and/or your partner. Use lubricants in different ways -- during masturbation, during penetrative intercourse and with sex toys -- to get a good idea of how well a particular lubricant works for you. Most people find they like a specific lube for a specific act, and the only way to find out what you like is by experimenting. And when it comes to sex and masturbation, your journey through experimenting can be a whole lot of fun!

We will be back with more in this lubricant series to discus other types of lube including flavored, anal, mood lubes, organic, vegan, female lubes and more!