Having lubricant around for both partner-based and solo sensual activity is a great idea. Excessive friction from self-pleasuring and sensual activity can eventually lead to a partial de-sensitization of the male organ, something that impedes on a man’s ability to enjoy sensual activities. In the interest of maintaining proper manhood health, then, men should lube up. But where does one start? There are a variety of lubricants on the market, and many around-the-house products that men might be tempted to try out for the purpose. The following guide will help men figure out when to use certain types of lubricant and which types of avoid.

Shampoo: No. Don’t self-pleasure with shampoo or conditioner. These products tend to be too harsh for the delicate male organ skin, and can cause dryness and irritation.

Soap: No as well, and for the same reasons that shampoo is not advised as lube for self-pleasuring (or sensual activity!).

Lotions: Most men have a bottle or two of body lotion lying around, and may be tempted to reach for one when it’s time to crank one out. This might work out fine, but sometimes the ingredients in body lotions – such as chemicals or fragrances – may be too harsh for the manhood skin. Irritation may result. In general, it’s a good plan to opt for a product specifically designed for the purpose of sensual lubrication.

Water-based products: These are the most common types of lubricants on the market. They are compatible with sensual toys of various materials and, importantly, with latex barrier protection. Water-based lubes are generally great for partner sensual activity, but look out for the ingredient glycerin; this can promote female yeast infections. Water-based lubes may dry out more quickly than other types and require reapplication more frequently. They are, however, cheap, and easily wash off clothing and bedding.

Oil-based products: Products such as Vaseline, baby oil, coconut oil and vitamin E oil are super slick and tend to feel very nice on the male organ. However, they cannot be used in conjunction with latex barrier protection, as oils tend to break down the material. When used without a barrier protection or with a different material, they may promote yeast infections in women prone to them. These products are messy and difficult to clean off, and are therefore not ideal for partner sensual activity. Men might prefer them for solo play. Just keep in mind that these greasy products may clog pores, so men prone to acne may wish to avoid them.

Silicone-based products: These products last longer than water-based ones and can be used with latex barrier protection. However, they shouldn’t be used with sensual activity toys that are made of silicone. This type of lube is more expensive than water-based lube and more difficult to clean off. Some women experience a notable reaction to silicone-based lubes, so a product should be tested on a small area before slathering it on for partner sensual activity.

Ingredients to avoid

The following ingredients are associated with yeast infections, bacterial infections and other complications when used in partner sensual activity:

• Sorbitol
• Glycerin
• Parabens
• Petroleum
• Chlorhexidine
• Nonoxynol-9

Read ingredient labels well to ensure that the product is safe for both oneself and one’s partner.

Even when men heed the need for adequate lubrication, they may find that frequent self-pleasuring and/or sensual activity can lead to chafing and dryness of the manhood. In this case, it’s a great idea to also invest in a male organ health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil). This product is not a sensual lubricant, but a daily moisturizer that can help protect the skin against friction by keeping it smooth, soft, supple and well-hydrated. Containing both Shea butter and vitamin E, Man1 Man Oil is a superior skin care product for a man’s favorite body part.