Why Lube Makes Masturbation Better?
Why Use Lube for Masturbation?
There’s a bit of a myth, I think, that lube is only necessary when there’s another person involved. Maybe it’s tied to the idea that masturbation should be “simple”, that if you're doing it solo, you shouldn’t need extras.
But honestly?
That’s like saying toast is only worth eating plain. Sure, it’s fine, but once you’ve had it with butter… well, it’s hard to go back.
Lubricant can completely change how masturbation feels. Even a small amount can reduce friction, making everything smoother, gentler, and often, just more enjoyable.
If you’ve ever found yourself playing with yourself a little too dry and regretting it afterwards - perhaps some redness, maybe even chafing, you’re not alone. It happens, and lube can make a noticeable difference.
Here’s what lube can offer:
- Enhanced sensation: Many people find that lube heightens sensitivity. There’s less resistance, so your skin doesn’t dull out partway through.
- Reduced friction: This means fewer sore spots or irritations, especially with repeated motions.
- Longer sessions: If you want to keep going without discomfort, lube helps with that.
- Playfulness: Some people use lube to experiment with new toys or techniques they wouldn’t otherwise try.
It's not just for people with penises or vaginas, either, lube is gender-neutral. And yes, it’s okay if your first thought is, “Do I really need it?” That’s normal. But once you’ve tried a good water based lubricant especially one made with solo play in mind, you may start to wonder how you ever managed without it.
Of course, not every experience is transformed into a mind-blowing one just because you added some lube. Let’s be honest. But often, it just smooths things out, literally and figuratively and gives you a little more room to explore without discomfort getting in the way.
There's also something a bit... intentional about using lube. As if you're taking your time, actually giving yourself permission to enjoy it rather than rushing through the act. A small shift, but it can have a surprisingly big impact on how you feel during and afterwards.
To discover more about lube, check out our Guide to Lubricants.
Choosing the Right Lube
When it comes to selecting a lube, especially for masturbation, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. There are gels, creams, oils, hybrids, and then water based, silicone based, hybrids... The list goes on. But if you’re just starting out or even if you’ve dabbled before, water based lube is generally the most popular.
Why? For one, it’s compatible with just about everything. Fingers, toys, skin and it doesn’t stain, and it washes off easily with water. That alone makes it popular. But there’s more to it than just practicality.
Let’s go over a few reasons why water-based lube tends to be a great option:
- No mess: Well, less mess. It doesn’t leave an oily residue like oil-based lubes.
- Toy-friendly: If you're using a vibrator or male stroker, water based options are safe with pretty much all materials. Whereas with silicone lubes, you shouldn't blend these with silicone toys.
- Gentle on skin: Most reputable brands, like Skins, make theirs pH neutral.
That said, not all water based lubes are created equal. Some dry out quicker than others, especially if they’re not designed for extended sessions. But the ones made specifically for masturbation tend to have a silkier texture and better staying power. Still, you might need to reapply now and then. It depends on your technique, your skin, even the room temperature sometimes. There’s no shame in stopping for a top-up.
You might also notice some lubes describe themselves as “tingling” or “warming.” These are designed to add a bit of sensation. For some, they’re exciting. For others, distracting. It’s personal. If you’ve never used a tingling lube before, maybe don’t start with that right before a first date. Test it out when there’s no pressure, so you can focus on how it feels for you.
How to Use Lube for Solo Play
This might seem like the simplest part, just add some and go, right?
But actually, how you use lube can affect the whole experience. It’s not just about applying it; it’s about when, where, and how much. And honestly, sometimes it takes a few goes to get it right.
Here’s a basic rundown, but treat it as a starting point rather than a rulebook:
- Start with clean hands and a clean area. That’s not about being clinical, it’s just nicer not to feel sticky before you even begin.
- Warm the lube slightly in your hands. Cold gel directly onto warm skin isn’t always the best sensation. Unless, of course, you’re into that.
- Use a small amount first. You can always add more. Using too much at once can make things overly slippery and hard to control, especially with toys.
- Reapply as needed. Don’t be afraid to pause. That short moment to grab more lube doesn’t interrupt things, it’s part of the rhythm. However, with Skins' water based lubes they are formulated with a special ReAquav8 technology that can be reactivated with a little bit of water or saliva so you can make your lube last longer.
For those using lube with toys, be aware that some lubes absorb faster than others. Water based ones might need topping up mid-session, but they’re less likely to damage your toys over time.
If you’re masturbating with just your hands, lube still offers plenty of variety. Some people prefer to coat their palms; others apply directly to their genitals. There’s no one correct approach here it depends on what feels best to you.
Interestingly, using lube often encourages a slower, more intentional kind of touch. You can try things you might not normally do. Varying pressure, experimenting with different strokes, even incorporating a second hand if that’s not your usual style. The extra glide changes what your skin picks up, and that can lead to sensations you didn’t expect.
And if you’re worried about cleanup, that’s fair. It’s not always mess-free. But with water-based lube, a quick rinse or a damp towel usually does the trick. Some people keep a flannel or wipes nearby for exactly this reason. Not glamorous, maybe, but practical.
Also, try not to rush. Masturbation isn’t a race to the finish. With lube, the whole process often becomes more sensual, more exploratory. It’s worth slowing down, not always, but at least now and then, just to see what you notice.
One last thing: if you ever feel any burning, itching, or general discomfort, stop immediately. That could be a sensitivity to an ingredient or a sign of something else. Don’t power through it. There are plenty of lubes out there; it’s just a matter of finding one your body gets along with.
Discover Skins' Range of Masturbation Lubes
