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The best lubes for easing menopausal dryness and enhancing pleasure
Fight friction with these liquids and gels

You may be mentally ready for action, but if your body isn’t on the same page, the best lubricant (aka lube) can help ease any friction and combat discomfort during sex and masturbation.
Vaginal dryness can affect us at any time and for a variety of reasons, with our hormones playing a big role. Due to fluctuations in oestrogen levels, it’s a common – and often uncomfortable – symptom of perimenopause and menopause.
But lube isn't just for those looking to combat dryness or discomfort. It can be used by anyone and everyone to enhance sexual pleasure – in solo play with one of our testing panel's best vibrators, or with a partner. It also comes in different flavours and some are designed to deliver cooling and warming sensations on application.
That’s why it’s a good idea to have a bottle tucked away in your bedside drawer to help things run a little more, well, smoothly. These are our favourites at a glance:
Best lubes
What are the different types of lube?
We spoke to women’s health specialist and GP Dr Chandni Rajani to get the low down on how lube can help down below. First, she talked us through the main types.
Water: Water-based lubricants are generally safe for the skin, hypoallergenic, and unlikely to irritate. They absorb quickly, leaving little residue and are compatible with condoms and sex toys.
Silicone: Silicone-based lubricants are generally safe for skin contact, hypoallergenic, and provide long-lasting lubrication. However, they can degrade silicone sex toys and may leave a residue on the skin.
Oil: Oil-based lubricants, such as those made from natural oils like coconut or mineral oil, can moisturise and provide long-lasting lubrication. However, they are not recommended for use with latex condoms as they can weaken them, increasing the risk of breakage. Additionally, oil-based lubes may stain fabrics and be more challenging to clean up than water-based or silicone-based options.
You'll find more information on the benefits of lube, particularly during menopause, below, but first let's slide into our top picks.
Madeleine is our Lifestyle Writer, specialising in expert-tested reviews and round-ups on the latest beauty Beauty and Health & Wellness products. From skincare to protein powders, Maddie is committed to providing honest and helpful reviews to help guide readers to the best product for them. Maddie has a BA in English Literature and Language, which stemmed from her lifelong interest in reading and writing. She started her post graduate life at Hearst UK within a marketing capacity, which quickly turned into a desire to fulfil a writing career.
When she is not writing about the latest expert reviewed products, you can find her rifling through vintage shops or car boots, reading a print magazine, or capturing portraits on her film camera.


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