Dear Reader,

Several brands of condoms on the market use silicone lubricant instead of water-based lubes that you find always recommended here on Go Ask Alice! Silicone, a synthetic substance much used in industry, retains its slippery properties longer than water-based lube, which can explain why some manufacturers may prefer it.

Silicone lube is an alternative to water-based lubricants, which are more often recommended. Unlike oil-based lubes, silicone is safe to use on latex and polyurethane condoms and dams (but not recommended for sex toys made of silicone). It also does not react with the human body, nor is it absorbed by the skin or digestive tract if it is ingested. In fact, silicone can turn up in places you least expect — such as in canned soup, where it is used to prevent foaming and clumping.

Silicone lube is not water-soluble. While this is a definite plus for under-water sex, it does take a little effort in washing away the lube after sex.

So go ahead and enjoy the silicone-lubed condoms. And, just in case you're wondering: yes, it's perfectly fine to add water-based personal lubricant to silicone-lubed condoms if you find yourself in need of a little more slide and glide.

Alice

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