Choosing a Personal Lubricant: Four Household Products Never to Use

As most men are aware, using a lubricant during masturbation not only adds to the thrill of the moment; it can prevent lasting irritation and damage to the skin. On the other hand, not all lubricants are created equal, and although experimentation can be fun, men who choose the wrong products for their solo sessions may end up with uncomfortable problems. Understanding the effects of these products can encourage men to think twice before applying them to delicate skin, and exercising appropriate penis care can help to ensure that the penile tissue is as healthy and supple as possible.

These four products may be convenient to use, but they can cause more trouble than they are worth in the long run:

1. Toothpaste

The frothy, minty foam that is meant to freshen the breath can provide a slick substitute for a lube, and some men appreciate the tingle they get from applying toothpaste to the penis skin. Unfortunately, while it might provide for an interesting experience, the end results can be catastrophic for the delicate penile tissue. Dental products like toothpaste contain fine granules that are designed to polish hard surfaces, and those gritty bits can cause microscopic tears to the outer dermal layers of the penis. In addition, the menthol that produces the tingling sensation can actually burn the skin, resulting in damage on a cellular level, not to mention a good degree of discomfort.

2. Petroleum Jelly

A tub of petroleum jelly might seem like the perfect choice for a lube. It is slippery and does not absorb easily into the skin, so it won’t run dry at the wrong moment and interrupt the proceedings. It’s also inexpensive, and men who are a little shy about purchasing intimate products don’t have to worry that they are advertising their evening plans to the cashier, since it can be used for a multitude of other purposes.

On the other hand, petroleum jelly and condoms do not react well together; the petroleum can destroy the integrity of the latex, so men who are depending on a condom for protection against STDs or unwanted pregnancy should steer clear. On top of this, petroleum jelly can be difficult to remove; it is not water-soluble, so it can’t be rinsed away, and leaving it on the skin can result in irritation.

3. Scented Body Lotion

Body lotions might seem like a smart choice; although they are eventually absorbed into the skin, they do create a slippery surface that can last for several minutes, and the moisturizers they contain may leave the skin feeling soft and smooth. However, body lotions often contain fragrances and other  chemical ingredients that can cause drying and irritation; and many people have sensitivities or allergies to some of  these ingredients.

4. Liquid Soap

The average household has plenty of pourable cleansers, such as:

• Dish soap
• Hand soap
• Liquid body wash
• Shampoo

These products may be good for removing dirt and oil from the surface of the skin or from the hair, and they may provide a slippery foam that works well as a lube, especially in the shower or bath. However, the same properties that allow these products to clean effectively can end up abrading and drying the penis skin, resulting in soreness, redness, and dry-looking, cracked skin.

What to use instead

Products that are designed specifically for use as personal lubricants are the smart choice when it comes to easing the friction during a solo session; however, men should be alert to the ingredients in these lubes, as well. For those with sensitive skin, products that contain flavoring, scents or warming ingredients are not a good idea, as they can produce a skin reaction. Choosing a water-based, fragrance-free lubricant is often the best solution.

In between sessions, applying a high quality penis health creme (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) enriched with skin-replenishing nutrients and all-natural moisturizers can help to rejuvenate stressed skin and restore its natural elasticity and resilience, promoting a healthy and attractive appearance.