Hybrid

A hybrid lubricant is a water based gel with a small amount of silicone in it: it keeps the clean, light feel and easy rinsing of a water based lubricant and borrows the lasting glide of silicone, so it needs reapplying less often and never turns tacky. It is the sensible middle for people who find water based gels dry out and silicone lubricants too slick or too hard to wash off. This guide explains what is in it, where it is safe, and the one caution about silicone toys.

What it is

Mostly water and a humectant, with a few percent of silicone, dimethicone or dimethiconol, which floats on the skin and keeps the glide going after the water has gone. The result is a lubricant that feels like a cream, lasts two or three times as long as a plain water based gel, and rinses off with water because the silicone content is low.

Where it is safe

With latex and polyurethane condoms, yes. On skin, for vaginal and anal sex, yes; hybrids are among the most comfortable lubricants for people with dryness or sensitivity, because they stay moist without glycerin heaviness. In water it lasts longer than a water based gel but shorter than silicone.

The silicone toy question

Silicone lubricant damages silicone toys, and a hybrid contains some silicone. With the low percentages in most hybrids, damage is unlikely but not impossible, particularly on soft, cheap silicone. Test on the base of the toy first, or keep a plain water based gel for silicone toys and use the hybrid for everything else. Glass, metal, ABS and hard plastics are unaffected.

Choosing

Unscented, glycerin free or low glycerin, paraben free, for anyone prone to irritation or infection. Thicker hybrids for anal sex; thinner for vaginal. A bottle with a pump is easier one handed.

Using it

Shake before use if the label says so, because the phases separate. A little goes further than a water based gel; add more rather than water to revive it. Washes off skin and sheets with warm water.

Frequently asked questions