How to Choose a Lubricant: A Practical Guide for Sensitive Skin and Limited Mobility

A good lubricant makes intimacy more comfortable, protects skin and can make equipment easier to use. That matters more if you have reduced sensation, sensitive or fragile skin, dryness, pain or limited movement, because friction can cause damage you might not notice straight away.

With so many products available, it helps to know the basics. Below, we explain the main types and how to choose between them, and we highlight the Drip range, which is one of the most popular with our customers.

The main types of lubricant

Water-based

Works with most toys and is generally the easiest to wash off.
Can dry out or become tacky, so it may need reapplying.
Usually the best starting point, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Our pick from the Drip range: Drip Water Based Lube.

Silicone hybrid

Blends water-based and silicone ingredients, aiming for a slippery feel that lasts longer than water-based alone.
Useful if you want to reapply less often, which can help if reaching or squeezing a bottle is difficult.
Check the product page for toy compatibility, because silicone can damage some silicone toys.
Our pick from the Drip range: Drip Silicone Hybrid Lube.

Oil-based

Can last longer and suit some kinds of massage and use.
Can damage latex condoms, which reduces their protection, so it is generally not suitable to use with them.
Can be harder to clean off skin, bedding and some toys, so check compatibility first.
Our pick from the Drip range: Drip Oil Based Lube.

If you are unsure, start with a water-based product, and add others as you find out what works for you.

Meet the Drip range

Drip is one of the most popular lubricant ranges with the people we work with. It offers three options so you can choose the type that suits your body, your equipment and how you like to use it:

Product	Type	Good to know
Drip Water Based Lube	Water-based	A straightforward starting point
Drip Silicone Hybrid Lube	Silicone hybrid	Designed for longer-lasting glide
Drip Oil Based Lube	Oil-based	Not for use with latex condoms
Drip Toy Cleaner	Toy cleaner	For cleaning your toys after use

Each product page lists the details you need for your own situation, so read it before you buy.

Other options in our range

Browse everything in Comfort & Lubrication or Lubricants.

What to check before you choose

Compatibility: confirm it works with your toys (especially silicone) and with condoms.
Ingredients: if your skin is sensitive, look for simple ingredients, and be cautious with products that are fragranced, flavoured or that warm or tingle.
Texture: a thicker gel may stay in place better, while a thinner one may spread more easily.
Packaging: if grip or hand function is limited, look for a bottle you can open and squeeze easily, such as a pump or flip-top. A small screw cap or sachet may be harder to use.

If you have reduced sensation

Reduced sensation means you might not notice friction, dryness or irritation.

Apply generously, and reapply before it dries out.
Check your skin afterwards for redness, swelling, bruising or abrasions.
Avoid products that tingle, warm or heat, because they can irritate skin you can't feel well.
Talk to your clinician if you notice skin changes that don't settle.

If you have sensitive skin or dryness

Try a small amount on your inner arm before using it more widely.
Choose a simple formula without fragrance or flavour.
If dryness or pain continues, speak with your GP, pelvic health physiotherapist or another health professional, because they can look at underlying causes.

If you have bladder or bowel management needs

Ask your continence nurse or clinician which products suit you.
Consider Bedding & Protection, such as a waterproof blanket, to make cleaning up simpler.

If reaching and applying is hard

Ask a partner or carer to apply it, and agree in advance how you would like that to work.
Keep the bottle within easy reach.
Consider applying lubricant to the toy or device first, if that suits your setup.
If you are choosing between products, consider one that lasts longer, so you don't need to reapply as often.

Cleaning and storage

Clean toys after each use, and follow the manufacturer's care instructions. A dedicated cleaner such as Drip Toy Cleaner can make this part of the routine simple.
Let toys dry fully before storing them.
Store lubricants somewhere cool and dry, and check the use-by date.
Throw out anything that smells or looks unusual.

Safety

Use products as described, and stop if you notice irritation, pain or unexpected symptoms. If you are at risk of autonomic dysreflexia or skin breakdown, talk with your treating clinician before trying new products. See Safety Basics: Using Intimacy Aids After Injury or Disability.

Funding

Some lubricants and related items may be included when equipment is recommended by a clinician. Ask your clinician, and see Funding Assistance. We can quote and invoice funding bodies directly.

Explore more

Frequently asked questions

Which Drip lubricant should I choose?
If you're unsure, start with the water-based option. If you'd like something longer-lasting, consider the silicone hybrid, and check that it suits your toys.

Can I use oil-based lubricant with condoms?
No. Oil-based products can damage latex condoms and reduce their protection.

Which lubricant works best with silicone toys?
Water-based lubricants are usually the safest choice. Silicone-containing products can damage some silicone toys, so check the toy's instructions first.

How much should I use?
More than you might think. Reapply whenever it starts to feel dry, tacky or drags.

Will my order be discreet?
Yes. Every order ships Australia-wide in plain packaging, with nothing on the outside to suggest what is inside.

This article is general information and isn't a substitute for advice from your health professional.