The 9 Best Vaginal Lubrication Products for Menopause-Related Dryness

Follow Drugslib on

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Here’s our process.

How we vet brands and products

Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:
  • Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
  • Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
  • Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?
    • We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.Read more about our vetting process.Was this helpful?

    Aloe Cadabra and Good Clean Love top our list of best vaginal lubrication products. Learn more about all our picks, plus the pros and cons of different types of personal lubricants.

    a collage of three top vaginal lubrication productsShare on Pinterest

    During menopause, thinning vaginal tissue and dryness due to a lack of estrogen can make intimacy uncomfortable — or even painful.

    Lubricants can help. They work quickly and offer short-term relief from pain and dryness during sex. Here’s a look at some of the most common lubricants available, as well as the pros and cons of each.

    A quick look at the best vaginal lubricants

  • Best overall (water-based): Good Clean Love Almost Naked | Skip to review
  • Best silicone-based: Astroglide Astroglide X Silicone LiquiGel | Skip to review
  • Best for no mess: AH! YES WB Applicators | Skip to review
  • Best organic: Aloe Cadabra Natural Aloe | Skip to review
  • Best aloe-based: Hers Glide Ale Vera Lubricant | Skip to review
  • Best lubricant and condom bundle: Hers Luxe Condoms and Lubricant Kit | Skip to review
  • Best toy-safe lubricant: Wisp Toy-Safe Harmonizing Lube | Skip to review
  • Best waterproof lubricant: Wisp Harmonizing Lube | Skip to review
  • Best vaginal insert: Bonafide Revaree | Skip to review

    • Pricing guide

  • $ = under $10
  • $$ = $11–$15
  • $$$ = $16 and up

    • Healthline’s picks of the best vaginal lubrication products

    Best overall

    Good Clean Love Almost Naked

  • Price: $$
  • Type: water-based
  • Ingredients: organic aloe barbadensis leaf juice, xanthan gum, agar, lactic acid, potassium sorbate, sodium benzoate, and natural flavor
  • Pros: 95% organic; glycerin- and paraben-free; vegan; safe to use with sex toys and condoms
  • Cons: sticky; dries up quickly

    • Almost Naked is designed to replicate your body’s natural lubrication. Because it’s water-based and has the same osmolality as the vagina, it won’t strip away extra moisture. The North American Menopause Society recommends water-based lubricants overs oil-based lubricants because they are less likely to cause irritation.

    This product also earns points for being 95% organic, glycerin- and paraben-free, as well as vegan. Plus, Almost Naked is safe to use with your favorite sex toys and is compatible with condoms.

    This lube may feel a little sticky compared to similar products. And because Almost Naked is water-based, it can lose its slipperiness. You may need to reapply it during sexual activity.

    Shop now at Amazon

    Best silicone-based

    Astroglide X Silicone LiquiGel

  • Price: $$
  • Type: silicone-based
  • Ingredients: dimethicone/vinyl dimethicone crosspolymer, dimethicone
  • Pros: combines the slippery feel of a liquid with the firmness of a gel
  • Cons: can feel sticky

    • Astroglide X is a silicone-based vaginal lubricant that is a hybrid between a liquid and a gel. It has the silky feel of a liquid, but the gel makes it less messy to apply and keeps it from dripping out.

    Like our best overall pick, it’s recommended by The North American Menopause Society.

    While Astroglide X is a long lasting lubricant, the thickness compared with liquid water-based lubricants may be too much for some people.

    Shop now at Amazon

    Best for no mess

    AH! YES VM with applicators

  • Price: $$$
  • Type: water-based
  • Ingredients: water, organic aloe vera, organic flax seed extract, organic guar gum, organic locust bean gum, xanthan gum, sodium chloride, potassium sorbate, citric acid, phenoxyethanol
  • Pros: certified organic; pH balanced; less messy; compatible with condoms and sex toys; formulated to be allergy-friendly
  • Cons: watery; evaporates quickly

    • AH! YES is certified organic like some of the other lubes that made our list, but the individual applicators set this product apart. They make applying this product much less messy.

    This product’s pH level is matched to the vagina. This is good — you should avoid vaginal lubricants with high pH levels since this may lead to infection (vaginitis).

    AH! YES is odorless, flavorless, and not sticky. It’s formulated to reduce the risk of allergic reactions and is compatible with latex condoms and sex toys.

    One negative is that this lubricant evaporates quickly. And it may be too watery to provide enough slipperiness for sex without needing to reapply. This is common with all water-based lubricants.

    Shop now at AH! YES

    Best organic

    Aloe Cadabra Natural Aloe

  • Price: $
  • Type: water-based
  • Ingredients: organic aloe barbadensis leaf juice, vitamin E oil (mixed tocopherols), xanthan gum, citric acid, food grade sodium benzoate, food grade potassium sorbate, organic vanilla planifolia concentrate
  • Pros: pH balanced to the vagina; natural ingredients; nongreasy; long lasting; comes in multiple flavors
  • Cons: may need to be reapplied

    • Aloe vera is well-suited in vaginal lubricants. Its pH of 4.5 closely matches the vagina’s natural pH level. Aloe Cadabra contains 95% aloe vera, along with a blend of other natural ingredients meant to naturally lubricate and condition sensitive tissues.

    Aloe Cadabra leaves out additives like parabens, glycerin, glycol, silicone, and dyes. It’s nongreasy and won’t leave a mess.

    Plus, it reportedly lasts longer than some other lubes on the market.

    Shop now at Amazon

    Best aloe-based

    Hers Glide Aloe Vera Lubricant

  • Price: $$$
  • Type: water-based
  • Ingredients: aloe barbadensis leaf juice, propanediol, tremella fuciformis (mushroom) extract, gluconolactone, sodium hyaluronate, chenopodium quinoa seed extract, cannabis sativa seed extract, linum usitatissimum (linseed) seed extract, camellia sinensis leaf extract, avena sativa (oat) kernel extract, hydroxyethylcellulose, xanthan gum, sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate, citric acid
  • Pros: pH balanced and hydrating; free of fragrance, glycerin and parabens; safe to use with sex toys and non-polyurethane condoms; no sticky residue; rinses away easily
  • Cons: can’t be used with polyurethane condoms

    • This water-based lubricant is made with a majority of natural ingredients. Aloe vera gives it a smooth, hydrating feel, green tea extract adds antioxidant properties, and hemp seed adds a natural, slippery—not slimy—texture. It’s also free of fragrance, parabens and glycerin.

    While it’s safe to use on bodies and toys, this lubricant cannot be used with polyurethane condoms.

    Reviewers say the lubricant lasts, works well and washes off easily without leaving behind greasy residue or stains.

    Shop now at Hers

    Best lubricant and condom bundle

    Hers Luxe Condoms and Lubricant Kit

  • Price: $$$
  • Type: water-based
  • Ingredients: aloe barbadensis leaf juice, propanediol, tremella fuciformis (mushroom) extract, gluconolactone, sodium hyaluronate, chenopodium quinoa seed extract, cannabis sativa seed extract, linum usitatissimum (linseed) seed extract, camellia sinensis leaf extract, avena sativa (oat) kernel extract, hydroxyethylcellulose, xanthan gum, sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate, citric acid; latex
  • Pros: pH balanced and hydrating; free of fragrance, glycerin and parabens; safe to use with sex toys and non-polyurethane condoms; no sticky residue; rinses away easily
  • Cons: can’t be used with polyurethane condoms

    • This kit includes the Glide aloe-based lubricant and natural latex condoms that can be used for vaginal, anal and oral sex. The condoms are designed to be as thin and form-fitting as possible, with a strong, flexible hexagon design that contours closely for a great fit.

    Both the condoms and the lubricant in this kit are compatible with sext toys as well.

    Reviewers say the lubricant isn’t sticky, glides well and doesn’t dry out, and the condoms are very thin and pair well with the lubricant. Many also mentioned the high-quality packaging.

    Shop now at Hers

    Best toy-safe lubricant

    Wisp Toy-Safe Harmonizing Lube

  • Price: $$
  • Type: water- and silicone-based
  • Ingredients: Propylene glycol, water/eau, dimethicone, cyclopentasiloxane, PEG/PPGdimethicone, caprylhydroxamic Acid, 1,2-hexanediol, propanediol, sodium polyacrylate, trideceth-6, dydroxyethylcellulose
  • Pros: hypoallergenic; fragrance-free; non-sticky; safe for bodies and toys
  • Cons: not safe for polyurethane condoms

    • This hybrid lubricant is made with water and a limited amount of silicone, making it safe to use on silicone toys. It’s also compatible with natural latex and polyisoprene condoms, but it shouldn’t be used with polyurethane condoms.

    The non-sticky lubricant reduces friction and adds slip for sustained pleasure.

    Shop now at Wisp

    Best waterproof lubricant

    Wisp Original Harmonizing Lube

  • Price: $
  • Type: silicone-based
  • Ingredients: dimethicone, cyclopentasiloxane, dimethiconol, phenyl trimethicone
  • Pros: hypoallergenic; non-sticky; safe for bodies and condoms; fragrance free; waterproof
  • Cons: may stain fabrics

    • This FDA-cleared, silicone-based lubricant is designed to reduce friction during sex, eliminating chafing and pain and increasing pleasure. It add slip without becoming sticky or drying out, making it safe for vaginal and anal sex. And since it’s waterproof, it can also be used in the water.

    One drawback of silicone-based lubricant is that it requires clean-up, since the body doesn’t absorb silicone. It can also stain fabrics and it can’t be used with silicone toys, as it will degrade them.

    Shop now at Wisp

    Best vaginal insert

    Bonafide Revaree

  • Price: $$$
  • Type: vaginal insert
  • Ingredients: hyaluronic acid sodium salt, semi-synthetic glycerides
  • Pros: minimal ingredients; attracts and retains moisture of hormone-free relief
  • Cons: expensive

    • Revaree is a non-hormonal vaginal insert designed to relieve dryness, itching, burning, and painful sex. The applicator- and mess-free inserts are made with hyaluronic acid to replenish moisture, and should be used every two to three days. In clinical trials, Revaree relieved vaginal dryness and painful sex within nine days.

    Reviewers say its lubricating properties are a tremendous help during menopause.

    Shop now at Bonafide

    Types of vaginal lubricants

    Water-based lubricants

    Water-based lubes are good for reducing friction. This type of lubricant can make sex more comfortable for people with vaginal dryness from menopause.

    In general, water-based lubricants are less likely to irritate the vagina than silicone lubes, but they may dry up more quickly.

    In a 2023 study, participants who used water-based lubricants for 4 weeks reported less vaginal dryness and more arousal, lubrication, and sexual satisfaction. They were also more likely to reach orgasm.

    The best water-based lubricants have a pH and osmolality similar to the vagina’s natural environment, according to a different 2023 study.

    Pros

  • won’t damage latex condoms
  • less likely to cause vaginal discomfort than oil-based lubricants
  • washes off easily with soap and water
  • safe to use and easy to find in stores
  • odorless, colorless liquid

    • Cons

  • can dry up quickly; may need to be reapplied often
  • doesn’t work in water and is not effective for sex in a shower or pool
  • can contain preservatives and additives such as glycerin and parabens
  • may irritate the sensitive vaginal tissues or cause yeast infections in some people

    • Silicone-based lubricants

    Silicone is a type of polymer. It has an oil-like consistency, which makes it work as a vaginal lubricant. Silicone-based lubes often contain ingredients like dimethicone, dimethiconol, and cyclomethicone.

    The slippery feel of silicone lubes and their ability to last longer without drying out are advantages over water-based lubricants.

    In a study from 2016 of women with sexual discomfort after breast cancer, almost twice as many women said a silicone-based lubricant improved their comfort during sex more than a water-based one.

    Pros

  • offers the greatest amount of lubrication
  • will not dry out during sex
  • keeps working in water
  • will not affect latex condoms
  • less likely to irritate you than water-based lubricants

    • Cons

  • can be expensive
  • can be hard to find in stores
  • can be difficult to wash off fully with soap and water
  • may leave a sticky residue on your skin

    • Oil-based lubricants

    These lubricants come in two types: natural plant oils like coconut, olive, or almond oil and store-bought oils like mineral oil and Vaseline.

    The advantages of oil-based lubes include their low cost, safety, and effectiveness.

    In a small study from 2013, 73% of women with breast cancer who had painful sex said using olive oil made sex more comfortable.

    Oil-based lubricants are not without downsides — they may irritate skin and stain fabric.

    Vaseline can actually introduce bacteria that cause infections. For instance, a small study found that women who used Vaseline as a lube were twice as likely to test positive for bacterial vaginosis.

    Oil-based lubes are also not recommended for use with condoms because they can damage the condom, making them less effective at preventing STDs and pregnancy (if you still get periods).

    Pros

  • lasts longer than water-based lubes
  • works in water
  • doesn’t contain irritating preservatives and other additives
  • safe for polyurethane condoms

    • Cons

  • can damage latex condoms
  • certain oil-based vaginal lubricants — including petroleum jelly and baby oil — can increase your risk for a urinary tract infection
  • can stain sheets, underwear, and other fabrics

    • Vaginal lubricants versus vaginal moisturizers

    Lubricants are intended for temporary use during sex to relieve dryness.

    If vaginal dryness is an issue beyond sex, you may want to consider a vaginal moisturizer (which include the AH! YES applicators on our list above). These products are intended for longer-term relief from dryness. They may have similar pros and cons to the different types of lubricants listed above, depending on their ingredients.

    They come in gels, creams, or beads and suppositories.

    Our other picks include:

  • AH! Yes VM Vaginal Moisturizing Gel
  • K-Y Liquibeads Vaginal Moisturizer
  • Replens Long-Lasting Vaginal Moisturizer
  • Carlson Key-E Suppositories
  • Satin by Sliquid Natural Intimate Moisturizer

    • Frequently asked questions

    What are warming lubricants?

    These lubricants add ingredients like menthol and capsaicin to create a warming sensation.

    Some people report that they enhance sensation and lead to more orgasms. Others experience an uncomfortable burning or stinging sensation (in which case, discontinue immediately).

    Products include K-Y Yours + Mine, K-Y Warming Liquid, LifeStyles Excite, and Lube Life.

    These lubricants add ingredients like menthol and capsaicin to create a warming sensation.

    Some people report that they enhance sensation and lead to more orgasms. Others experience an uncomfortable burning or stinging sensation (in which case, discontinue immediately).

    Products include K-Y Yours + Mine, K-Y Warming Liquid, LifeStyles Excite, and Lube Life.

    How can I naturally lubricate down there?

    A 2019 study suggests that vitamin E suppositories are helpful for relieving menopause-related dryness. You can use natural oils such as coconut, olive, or grapeseed oil.

    However, some people find these oils irritating, and they’re not safe for use with condoms.

    A 2019 study suggests that vitamin E suppositories are helpful for relieving menopause-related dryness. You can use natural oils such as coconut, olive, or grapeseed oil.

    However, some people find these oils irritating, and they’re not safe for use with condoms.

    Is K-Y jelly a good lubricant?

    K-Y is a popular lubricant company that The North American Menopause Society recommends for treating vaginal dryness related to menopause.

    Water-based lubes like K-Y can make sex more comfortable, but they tend to dry up faster than silicone-based lubricants.

    K-Y is a popular lubricant company that The North American Menopause Society recommends for treating vaginal dryness related to menopause.

    Water-based lubes like K-Y can make sex more comfortable, but they tend to dry up faster than silicone-based lubricants.

    Which is better: Oil or water-based lubricant?

    The lubrication from an oil-based product may last longer than water-based. But oil-based lubricants are more likely to irritate the vagina, and they can damage condoms.

    Oil-based lubricants are also more likely to stain fabrics.

    The lubrication from an oil-based product may last longer than water-based. But oil-based lubricants are more likely to irritate the vagina, and they can damage condoms.

    Oil-based lubricants are also more likely to stain fabrics.

    What vaginal lubricant do doctors recommend?

    Experts from The North American Menopause Society recommend water-based lubricants because they are less likely to irritate the vagina than oil-based products. They also suggest using vaginal moisturizers several times a week at bedtime to maintain moisture in the vagina.

    Experts from The North American Menopause Society recommend water-based lubricants because they are less likely to irritate the vagina than oil-based products. They also suggest using vaginal moisturizers several times a week at bedtime to maintain moisture in the vagina.

    Takeaway

    Vaginal lubricants work best for mild to moderate vaginal dryness.

    If your dryness is more severe or a lubricant does not help, see a gynecologist or your primary doctor. You may need an estrogen cream or pill. Or, you may have an underlying medical condition that needs to be treated.

    Posted : 2024-08-29 10:50

    Read more

    Disclaimer

    Every effort has been made to ensure that the information provided by Drugslib.com is accurate, up-to-date, and complete, but no guarantee is made to that effect. Drug information contained herein may be time sensitive. Drugslib.com information has been compiled for use by healthcare practitioners and consumers in the United States and therefore Drugslib.com does not warrant that uses outside of the United States are appropriate, unless specifically indicated otherwise. Drugslib.com's drug information does not endorse drugs, diagnose patients or recommend therapy. Drugslib.com's drug information is an informational resource designed to assist licensed healthcare practitioners in caring for their patients and/or to serve consumers viewing this service as a supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise, skill, knowledge and judgment of healthcare practitioners.

    The absence of a warning for a given drug or drug combination in no way should be construed to indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective or appropriate for any given patient. Drugslib.com does not assume any responsibility for any aspect of healthcare administered with the aid of information Drugslib.com provides. The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. If you have questions about the drugs you are taking, check with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.

    Popular Keywords