Expert Advice - For Health Conscious Consumer
Are you a health conscious consumer?
Phthalates:
Chemical compounds of phthalic acid used primarily as plasticizers, which are substances added to plastics to increase their flexibility. The adult novelty industry has largely phased phthalates out of most toys. The problem is that the FDA has given its seal of approval, but chemicals like phthalates and parabens have the ability of binding to mammalian estrogen receptors. Some side effects include decreased sperm count, altered ovarian and uterine functions, obesity and various sorts of behavioral alterations. The popular alternatives for a body-friendly selection include: silicone (perhaps the best bet in terms of comparable feel and softness, and because the molecules of silicone are extremely large and hard for the body to absorb), metal (which can be great for toying with temperatures), glass (one of the more visually dynamic mediums that has become a trendy standard, and is among the safest products), wood (used to make splinter-free wooden novelties from sustainable exotic hardwoods), stone (limited in concept but growing), and alternative plastics (including new formulations of PVC).
Parabens:
A group of chemicals widely used as preservatives in cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. Parabens are very confounding because there are many different kinds. They are delightful little substances and are very versatile, which is why they are commonly used in lubricants. Still parabens are more commonly known for being an allergen and potentially inciting dermatitis. There are many people who are unaware of why glycerine or paraben-free lubricants can be better choices.
Glycerine:
A chemical compound that is a colorless, odorless viscous liquid. Being a sugar alcohol, it is commonly used in flavored lubricants and also improves smoothness while enhancing the lubrication. The problem commonly encountered here is that many consumers presume all lubricants are suitable for internal use. Make sure that when you purchase a flavored lube, and specifically one containing glycerine, that you understand it is not meant to be used internally unless it is of the sugar-free variety, of which there are many. Glycerine is very slippery and pulls moisture from the air, but at 98.6°F inside a woman's body, it will actually begin to ferment. What does this mean? The fermentation process can lead to bacterial growth that results in yeast infections or possible urinary tract infections. Use flavored lubricants containing sugar for oral sex only.
Benzocaine/Lidocaine:
Local anesthetics commonly used as topical pain relievers: found frequently in anal lubricants. The problem is that the chemicals can cause complete numbing in anal products. This is extremely dangerous, as loss of sensation can cause tearing. You want to know when enough is enough and not to push the envelopes. These lubricants are also used to help delay ejaculation. If you are trying the back door for the first time, a numbing spray may not be your best option until you gain more experience.
Alum:
A salt that is a combination of alkali metals. It is approved by the FDA, but be aware that quantities of an ounce or more can allegedly be toxic to humans. Alum simply dehydrates vaginal tissue, which is extremely unhealthy.
L-Arginine:
An amino acid, arginine plays an important role in cell division, the healing of wounds, removing ammonia from the body, immune function and the releasing of hormones. It is commonly found in clitoral stimulating gels and lubricants and is also used as a treatment for erectile dysfunction. For women who don't have problems with it, it is a great product. However, if someone has ever had genital warts or herpes, there is a chance that L-Arginine will reactivate it.
Nonoxynol-9 (N-9):
A chemical widely used in various cleaning and cosmetic products; commonly found in spermicidal lubricants, condoms and toy cleaners. N-9 is a very effective spermicide, but repeated use of this harsh chemical can cause lesions and abrasions to develop which aid the transmission of the HIV virus by almost 50%. Recommended for monogamous couples.
Menthol:
An organic compound made synthetically or obtained from peppermint or other mint oils; found in stimulating or intensifying clitoral gels. Menthol works by irritating the skin. The problem is that menthol is also an alcohol, and it breaks down the surface of the skin. This produces the increased sensation that a woman experiences. However, individuals who naturally have problems experiencing sexual sensitivity without stimulating aids may have these problems due to certain health problems. Those who react strongly to menthol the first time are more likely to show strong negative reactions to it the second, third or fourth time around.
Expert Advice - Lubricants
Water-Based Lubes
You can find water-based lubes in a variety of consistencies, from liquid to jelly. Liquid varieties are ideal for all-around play, while jellies tend to have more lasting power for extended encounters. However, they may not last long enough for anal pleasure. Water-based lubes are ideal to use with condoms. There are also flavored varieties for use during oral sex. Water-based lubes rarely irritate, but wash easily out of sheets and auto upholstery! Toy clean-up is easy, too. And as for you, it's an easy wash-off with a wet wash cloth.
Silicone-Based Lubes
A super-slippery lube, silicone lasts and lasts for longer friction-free fun. This makes it ideal for in-the-water sex or anal play. It is also compatible with safer-sex practices, such as condoms or latex gloves because it does not break down in water, but your shower or tub surfaces could become slippery. Be sure to use cautiously and clean up thoroughly. Never use household products as lubricant! Petroleum jelly, massage oil, hand lotion and cooking oil are awful choices for lube because they cause infections, break down latex condoms and are not made to go inside your body.
Variety
Lubes vary widely in viscosity, texture and taste from brand to brand.
Anal pleasure
Lubrication is absolutely necessary during anal play.
Individual sensitivities
Certain lubes contain ingredients that may not agree with your body. Glycerine can promote the growth of yeast cultures in women who are prone to infections. Nonoxynol-9 (N-9) can be highly irritating to some women. Flavoring agents can sometimes cause irritation.
Toy don'ts
Silicone lube can damage silicone toys. Use water-based lube, or simply apply a condom to your toy.