Sexual Lubricants

Lube (lubricant) is a gel or liquid designed to reduce friction and add moisture during sex, making it more comfortable and enjoyable. It can be used on its own or alongside a condom, and comes in water-based, silicone-based and oil-based formulas. Water-based lubricants, such as Durex Play Feel, are the most versatile option, as they are non-staining, easily washed off, and safe to use with condoms and sex toys.

Apply a small amount directly to the area or to a condom before sex, adding more as needed for comfort. It can be used alone to ease friction, or alongside a condom to reduce the risk of it tearing during intercourse. Water-based lubricants may need reapplying during longer sessions, as they can dry out over time, but they are easily washed off with water afterwards.

Household items such as coconut oil, olive oil, baby oil or Vaseline are sometimes used as a substitute for lubricant, but this is not recommended. Oil-based products can degrade latex condoms and increase the risk of them breaking, and may also disrupt the natural balance of bacteria, raising the risk of irritation or infection. A purpose-made water-based lubricant, such as Durex Play Feel, is formulated to be gentle and condom-safe, making it a safer choice than reaching for household alternatives.

Yes, lube has a shelf life and can lose its effectiveness or start to separate over time, usually indicated by an expiry date on the packaging. Using lubricant past its expiry date is not recommended, as its texture and consistency may change, making it less effective at reducing friction. Storing lube in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight helps to preserve it for as long as possible.

Durex Play Feel is a silky, water-soluble lubricant, meaning it is water-based. Water-based lubricants are compatible with latex condoms and safe to use with all sex toy materials, including silicone, unlike silicone-based lubes, which can degrade silicone toys over time. This makes it a versatile, low-risk choice whether used alone, with a condom, or alongside toys.

Some lubricants, particularly those containing certain preservatives, fragrances or a high sugar content, can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria and yeast, which may increase the risk of thrush, UTIs or general irritation in some people. Water-based, fragrance-free lubricants are generally considered gentler and less likely to cause these issues. If symptoms keep recurring after using lube, it is worth speaking to a pharmacist to rule out an underlying cause.

Water-based lubricants are generally considered safe to use during pregnancy, but ingredients vary between products, and some can affect vaginal pH or sperm motility. If you are trying to conceive, or have any pregnancy-related concerns, it is worth checking with a pharmacist or GP before use to make sure a product is suitable for you.

Most modern water-based lubricants, including Durex Play Feel, do not contain spermicide, so they will not stop you becoming pregnant or act as a form of contraception. Lube is not a substitute for contraception, so continue using your usual method of protection, such as a condom or the pill, alongside it.

No, there is no legal minimum age to buy lubricant in the UK, unlike age-restricted products such as alcohol or tobacco. That said, individual retailers can set their own purchasing policies, so it is worth checking before you order.