Many people use lubes they’d typically use on the vagina for anal sex, but not all lubes are created equal. Some, like spit, aren’t ideal for anal penetration, and others can cause anus tears that make you vulnerable to STIs.
To avoid these problems, pick an anal lube that’s natural and safe for toys and condoms. Here are a few options:
1. Chiavaye Natural Lubricant
A water-based lube is a solid choice for anal play because it’s less messy than silicone formulas. This one has a long list of positive online reviews and is easy to wash off your penis, fingers, or toys after sex and anal penetration. It’s also hypoallergenic and non-irritating.
Lubes designed specifically for anal sex have a thicker consistency than regular personal lubricants, which helps ease painful backdoor entry and makes for a smoother ride for both partners. They also typically have a pH that mirrors the acidity of a healthy vagina—ideally between 3.8 and 4.5—to reduce irritation and potential bacterial infections (the rectal area is more sensitive than the vagina).
If you prefer a slicker texture, try a silicone-based anal lube. This version from Natalist is an option that’s safe to use with condoms and made with agave extract to add moisture. It’s also fertility-friendly, which is a plus for anyone TTC or planning to TTC in the future.
Another popular option is the classic UberLube, which has an easy-to-use pump top and pretty packaging that’s perfect for a bedside table. It has thousands of five-star reviews and is a best seller on Amazon. Just make sure you don’t use it with your favorite silicone butt plug or dildo, as the lube may break down the material.
2. Sliquid Silver Natural Lubricant
The best lube for anal sex is going to be thicker and longer-lasting than what you might find in your regular bathroom cabinet (especially if you plan on using butt plugs, anal vibrators, or condom-covered penises). A water-based formula isn’t a good choice, either, because the urethra doesn’t have natural lubrication like the vagina.
That’s why we love this anal lube from Sliquid. It’s a silicone-based formula that feels super slippery and lasts longer than most other lubes. Plus, it’s fertility-friendly, meaning it won’t slow down sperm or cause a yeast infection.
It also comes in a convenient pump bottle for easy application and has simple, body-friendly ingredients (including skin-nourishing vitamin E) that make it safe to use with condoms or anal toys. It’s also glycerin-free and sugar-derived, so it won’t irritate the anal.
The only thing we don’t like about this lube is the price tag, but it does go a long way and is super smooth. It’s also a vegan formula that’s free of glycerin and can be used with silicone toys. And it’s odor-free, so it won’t leave any sticky residue behind. It may be pricier than some other anal lubes, but it’s totally worth the money if you want to avoid irritation and pain during anal play.
3. GUN OIL Natural Silicone Lubricant
If you’re new to ass play, you may need a little extra lube to get comfortable inserting your fingers, toys, or penises into the anal canal. Unlike the vagina, the anus doesn’t self-lubricate and it can be painful to get anything inside there without a little help.
Lubes specifically designed for anal sex are typically thicker than water-based formulas, which make them more comfortable to use and last longer. They also usually have a smoother texture than standard lubes, which helps ease the friction of anal penetration. And since the anal canal has a different pH level than the vagina, choosing a formula that’s matched to the right pH can prevent irritation.
You can find some great options for anal lube online. For example, GUN OIL makes a natural silicone anal lube that’s condom-safe, body-friendly, and free of glycerin, scents, and dyes. It even has a pump top, so you can easily reapply during play. However, you should avoid any anal lube that contains spermicides or numbing ingredients since those will just make things feel weird and numb when the lube wears off.
Other options include UberLube, which has cute packaging and is compatible with anal sex toys. Pjur Nude has a long-lasting formula that’s easy to wash off and comes in a bottle that’s pretty enough to sit on your bedside table. And Woo Love Oil uses a base of coconut oil that’s both nourishing to the skin and has a great glide.
4. Organic Loven Natural Lubricant
Whether you’re playing with fingers, toys, or a penis in the anal canal, lube is an essential. It reduces friction — which is good if you’re the bottom or the top — and prevents tears in the rectal lining, which can lead to infection and STIs.
But not all lubes are made equal. It’s important to use a formula that doesn’t have ingredients like glycerin, alcohol, or perfume, which can irritate the delicate skin in the anal canal.
You also want to avoid lubes with numbing agents, which can be dangerous. They won’t tell you if there’s pain until the lube wears off, which isn’t ideal when it comes to your butt.
Luckily, there are plenty of lube options out there that are perfect for anal play. Sliquid Silver is a great all-around choice because it’s long-lasting and waterproof for shower sex, and it’s compatible with most sex toys. Plus, it’s vegan and cruelty-free, so you can feel good about using it. Penchant Premium is another silicone-based option that’s an excellent anal lube because it’s odorless, non-staining, and lasts for a long time without needing reapplication. It’s also a vegan product and is hypoallergenic. This lube has a handy pump top for easy dispense and is available in multiple sizes. It even notes on the packaging that it’s formulated to match your vagina’s pH, which is an important consideration because the anus isn’t self-lubricating.