6 Best Water, Silicone, Oil, and More Lubricants for Menopause Dryness

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Vaginal dryness is a common symptom of menopause due to the hormonal changes that take place. Lubricants can help relieve some discomfort that vaginal dryness causes, as they increase moisture in the area and soothe dry skin.
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A quick look at the best lubricants for menopausal dryness
Best pH-balanced lubricant: Gennev Comfort Lubricant | Skip to review
Gennev Comfort Lubricant
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Best water-based lubricant: LOLA Personal Lubricant | Skip to review
LOLA Personal Lubricant
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Best lubricant for use with condoms: Astroglide X Silicone Gel Lubricant | Skip to review
Astroglide X Silicone Gel Lubricant
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Best plant oil-based lubricant: Stripes Oh My Glide | Skip to review
Stripes Oh My Glide
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Best couples lubricant: K-Y Yours & Mine | Skip to review
K-Y Yours & Mine
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Best organic lubricant: AH! YES! OB Natural Plant Oil-Based Personal Lubricant | Skip to review
AH! YES! OB Natural Plant Oil-Based Personal Lubricant
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Type of lubricants
A 2020 review found that 50% of postmenopausal women experience vaginal dryness. This can be an uncomfortable symptom that can affect a person’s everyday life. It can cause discomfort during physical activity, burning, irritation, itching, and painful sex, resulting in vaginal tearing or bleeding.
50%
vaginal dryness
can cause
painful sex
Although vaginal lubricants cannot treat the underlying cause of vaginal dryness, such as lower estrogen levels caused by menopause, they can relieve some of the discomfort caused by dryness.
estrogen
menopause
There are three main types of lubricants a person can consider.
This is a common type of lubricant. Some water-based products will contain glycerin, while others are specifically glycerin-free. Water-based lubricants can also contain other ingredients, such as preservatives and antimicrobials.
suitable for use during sex, including penetrative vaginal sex, masturbation, and for use with sex toys
masturbation
suitable for use with condoms
condoms
readily available online and in local pharmacies
water-based lubricants with high osmolality — common in water-based lubricants — can cause irritation and cell damage
common
glycerin in some personal lubricants can increase a person’s risk of developing bacterial vaginosis, as glycerine is a byproduct of sugar
increase
bacterial vaginosis
may need to apply it more regularly than other types of lubricant
Silicone-based lubricants are also common and tend to last longer than water-based products.
hypoallergenic, so may be the most suitable for people with sensitive skin
long lasting, so may not need to apply it as often as water-based lubricants if they use it to relieve vaginal dryness during the day
suitable for use with condoms
may be more effective in reducing sexual discomfort than water-based lube
more effective
not suitable for use with some sex toys, as it can degrade them over time
may be more difficult to clean than other types as silicone is long lasting
Oil-based lubricants provide a slippery feel and are longer lasting.
last longer than water-based products
may be more effective at relieving general vaginal dryness than water-based products as they have a more slippery feel
may stain fabrics and be difficult to clean up
people may be at a higher risk of developing a yeast infection if they use oils inside the vagina
yeast infection
a higher risk of condom breakage if used alongside latex condoms
higher risk
How we chose
Medical News Today chooses personal lubricants that meet the following criteria:
Ingredients: MNT selects lubricants that have skin-safe ingredients suitable for prolonged exposure to the genitals, as well as for topical or oral use, ingestion, and inhalation.
Use: MNT chooses lubricants that are suitable for use to relieve vaginal dryness and during sex to prevent discomfort.
Safety: MNT selects lubricants that are hypoallergenic or that clearly state which allergens they contain.
Price: MNT chooses lubricants that are available in a range of budgets.
Medical News Today reviewed nine lubricants and selected six that passed our rigorous vetting process. The products we did not include did not have clear ingredient lists or were not in the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA’s) Establishment Registration & Device Listing.
MNT follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.
Learn more here
Best lubricants for menopause dryness
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.

Gennev Comfort Lubricant

Type: water-based
Size: 2 fl oz
Free of: drugs, estrogen
Certifications: GMP certified
$17.95 AT GENNEV
*Price may vary.
Gennev states that its founder formulated this moisturizer and lubricant to help relieve everyday vaginal dryness. The company claims that it will feel like a person’s natural moisture and suitable for general use and during sex or intimacy.
Gennev states that the product is pH-balanced, which may reduce the risk of excess discharge and yeast infections. Additionally, it does not contain parabens, fragrances, flavors, or hormones.
pH-balanced
While the company does not state the lubricant is hypoallergenic, it does not contain any common allergens.
Gennev states that its founder formulated this moisturizer and lubricant to help relieve everyday vaginal dryness. The company claims that it will feel like a person’s natural moisture and suitable for general use and during sex or intimacy.
Gennev states that the product is pH-balanced, which may reduce the risk of excess discharge and yeast infections. Additionally, it does not contain parabens, fragrances, flavors, or hormones.
pH-balanced
While the company does not state the lubricant is hypoallergenic, it does not contain any common allergens.
suitable for sensitive skin
free from hormones, fragrances, glycerin, and parabens
safe for use with condoms and sex toys
may not feel as slippery as a silicone-based lubricant
may need to reapply more frequently than other forms of lubricant
some users report the lubricant caused pain and irritation
suitable for sensitive skin
free from hormones, fragrances, glycerin, and parabens
safe for use with condoms and sex toys
may not feel as slippery as a silicone-based lubricant
may need to reapply more frequently than other forms of lubricant
some users report the lubricant caused pain and irritation
Shipping: shipping calculated at checkout
Shipping: shipping calculated at checkout

LOLA Personal Lubricant

Type: water-based
Size: 1.7 fl oz
Free of: parabens, glycerin, synthetic flavor, petrochemicals, synthetic colorants, fragrance
$14.00 AT LOLA
*Price may vary.
This lubricant is hypoallergenic, water-based, and created with natural ingredients. The company claims it does not contain parabens, glycerin, flavors, colors, or fragrances.
The bottle features a one-handed pump system to reduce mess. The formula is pH-balanced for vaginal health, and the company claims that the product has approval from gynecologists.
This lubricant is hypoallergenic, water-based, and created with natural ingredients. The company claims it does not contain parabens, glycerin, flavors, colors, or fragrances.
The bottle features a one-handed pump system to reduce mess. The formula is pH-balanced for vaginal health, and the company claims that the product has approval from gynecologists.
free from synthetic fragrances, dyes, flavors, parabens, and glycerin
the pump bottle allows for easier application
may not feel as slippery as silicone-based lubricant
water-based lubricants do not last as long as other forms of lubricant
free from synthetic fragrances, dyes, flavors, parabens, and glycerin
the pump bottle allows for easier application
may not feel as slippery as silicone-based lubricant
water-based lubricants do not last as long as other forms of lubricant
Shipping: shipping calculated at checkout
Shipping: shipping calculated at checkout

Astroglide X Silicone Gel Lubricant

Type: silicone-based
Size: 3 oz
Free of: parabens, glycerin
$12.99 AT AMAZON
*Price may vary.
This silicone-based lubricant is hypoallergenic and does not contain parabens or glycerin.
The manufacturer claims the formula is long lasting and nondrip for mess-free application. The company also says it is safe to use this lubricant with condoms made from natural rubber latex, polyurethane, and polyisoprene.
As well as silicone, this lubricant also includes coconut oil. People with a coconut allergy may wish to avoid this product.
coconut oil
It does not contain scents or flavors.
This silicone-based lubricant is hypoallergenic and does not contain parabens or glycerin.
The manufacturer claims the formula is long lasting and nondrip for mess-free application. The company also says it is safe to use this lubricant with condoms made from natural rubber latex, polyurethane, and polyisoprene.
As well as silicone, this lubricant also includes coconut oil. People with a coconut allergy may wish to avoid this product.
coconut oil
It does not contain scents or flavors.
hypoallergenic and free from parabens and glycerin
suitable for use with most condoms
nondrip formula, which can help reduce mess and make application easier
not safe for use on all condoms
contains coconut oil, which makes it unsuitable for people with a tree nut or coconut allergy
some customers state the lubricant is sticky and feels unpleasant
hypoallergenic and free from parabens and glycerin
suitable for use with most condoms
nondrip formula, which can help reduce mess and make application easier
not safe for use on all condoms
contains coconut oil, which makes it unsuitable for people with a tree nut or coconut allergy
some customers state the lubricant is sticky and feels unpleasant
Returns: free returns for Prime members
Shipping: free shipping for Prime members
Returns: free returns for Prime members
Shipping: free shipping for Prime members

Oh My Glide

Type: oil-based
Size: 3.3 fl oz
Free of: silicones, sulfates, parabens
SHOP NOW AT STRIPES
This oil-based menopause lubricant contains squalene, bisabolol, coconut, and avocado oil to help restore moisture and improve elasticity.
Stripes states that this product is dermatologist-approved and lab-tested. As well as being cruelty-free and vegan-friendly, it is free of hormones, fragrances, and sulfates.
People cannot use this lubricant with latex products, such as condoms. While the company claims it is hypoallergenic, those with a coconut or tree nut allergy may wish to avoid using it.
This oil-based menopause lubricant contains squalene, bisabolol, coconut, and avocado oil to help restore moisture and improve elasticity.
Stripes states that this product is dermatologist-approved and lab-tested. As well as being cruelty-free and vegan-friendly, it is free of hormones, fragrances, and sulfates.
People cannot use this lubricant with latex products, such as condoms. While the company claims it is hypoallergenic, those with a coconut or tree nut allergy may wish to avoid using it.
reportedly hypoallergenic, making it suitable for people with sensitive skin
vegan
contains multiple moisturizing ingredients
contains coconut oil, which makes it unsuitable for people with a tree nut or coconut allergy
some customers state that the pump does not work
has a thick and greasy texture, according to some reviews
reportedly hypoallergenic, making it suitable for people with sensitive skin
vegan
contains multiple moisturizing ingredients
contains coconut oil, which makes it unsuitable for people with a tree nut or coconut allergy
some customers state that the pump does not work
has a thick and greasy texture, according to some reviews
Returns: free returns within 60 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders $40 and over
Returns: free returns within 60 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders $40 and over

KY Yours & Mine

Type: water-based
Size: 3 fl oz
Free of: fragrance
$25.19 AT AMAZON
*Price may vary.
This multipack contains two lubricants that K-Y markets for males and females. The male lubricant contains glycerin, honey, and sucralose, whereas the female version is water-based and contains menthyl and fragrances.
The menthyl causes a tingling sensation, which may be pleasant during sex. However, if people experience irritation, they should discontinue use immediately.
This lubricant is compatible with latex condoms. K-Y suggests using 1–2 drops during sex.
This multipack contains two lubricants that K-Y markets for males and females. The male lubricant contains glycerin, honey, and sucralose, whereas the female version is water-based and contains menthyl and fragrances.
The menthyl causes a tingling sensation, which may be pleasant during sex. However, if people experience irritation, they should discontinue use immediately.
This lubricant is compatible with latex condoms. K-Y suggests using 1–2 drops during sex.
compatible with latex condoms
includes two lubricants for both partners
can be sticky, according to reviews
one lubricant contains fragrance, which may cause irritation in those with sensitive skin
compatible with latex condoms
includes two lubricants for both partners
can be sticky, according to reviews
one lubricant contains fragrance, which may cause irritation in those with sensitive skin
Returns: free returns
Shipping: free delivery
Returns: free returns
Shipping: free delivery

Ah! Yes! OB Natural Plant Oil-Based Personal Lubricant

Type: plant oil-based
Size: 4.73 fl oz
Certifications: Guaranteed Pure & Natural certified, Soil Association Organic certified, Vegetarian Association Approved, Good Shipping Guide Ethical, Made Safe certified
$22.99 AT AMAZON
*Price may vary.
This plant oil-based lubricant contains sunflower seed oil, shea butter, sweet almond oil, and beeswax, among other ingredients.
It is certified organic and compatible with silicone toys. The company claims it is hypoallergenic and gynecologist-recommended.
However, this lubricant is unsuitable for natural rubber latex, polyurethane, or polyisoprene condoms.
This plant oil-based lubricant contains sunflower seed oil, shea butter, sweet almond oil, and beeswax, among other ingredients.
It is certified organic and compatible with silicone toys. The company claims it is hypoallergenic and gynecologist-recommended.
However, this lubricant is unsuitable for natural rubber latex, polyurethane, or polyisoprene condoms.
does not contain fragrance, which makes it suitable for people with sensitive skin
organic ingredients and compatible with silicone toys
has an unpleasant smell, according to some reviews
product may not last very long, according to some customers
does not contain fragrance, which makes it suitable for people with sensitive skin
organic ingredients and compatible with silicone toys
has an unpleasant smell, according to some reviews
product may not last very long, according to some customers
Returns: free returns
Shipping: free delivery on orders over $25
Returns: free returns
Shipping: free delivery on orders over $25
Lubricants for dryness comparison
The following table compares the lubricants in this article.
Gennev
LOLA
Astroglide
Stripes
K-Y
AH! YES!
Alternative treatments
To help ease vaginal dryness due to menopause, a person may also consider the following:
using vaginal moisturizers
washing with nonperfumed soaps
engaging in foreplay before intercourse
trying vaginal estrogen products, such as a ring, tablet, or cream
refraining from bubble baths and scented products in and around the vaginal area
avoiding certain antihistamines, which can reduce vaginal lubrication
trying phytoestrogen supplements, which can reduce vaginal dryness
reduce
People with a history of estrogen-sensitive breast cancer should consult a doctor about whether phytoestrogen supplements are safe for them. Additionally, these supplements may include soy, nuts, seeds, and tofu and may not be suitable for individuals with allergies to these ingredients.
breast cancer
Frequently asked questions
The following are common questions and answers about lubricants for vaginal dryness due to menopause.
Vaginal dryness during menopause is due to hormonal changes, such as a reduction in estrogen, which can cause the vaginal walls to thin. When this happens, there are fewer moisture-producing cells in the vaginal walls, which can lead to dryness, making the skin more fragile and reducing the vagina’s elasticity. This is called vaginal atrophy or atrophic vaginitis.
vaginal atrophy
A person may wish to try natural oils such as olive, virgin coconut, peanut, and vitamin E as alternatives to lubricants. The lubricating effect of oils can last longer than water-based lubricants.
However, oils are not suitable for use with latex condoms or other latex birth control methods. Additionally, oils can clog the pores in the skin and cause skin irritation and infections, or change the pH balance inside the vagina.
An alternative to oil is aloe vera. This plant is known for its moisturizing properties. However, some aloe vera products may contain alcohol, which is not suitable for use inside the vagina. It may also cause some side effects, such as:
side effects
burning
itching
eczema
eczema
A person should check the ingredients of any lubricant they choose to make sure they do not use a product that may cause an allergic reaction.
After menopause, the ovaries stop producing eggs, leading to decreased estrogen levels. This can cause the skin and tissue of the vulva and vagina to become less elastic, and people may experience vaginal dryness.
decreased
Vaginal dryness affects around 50% of people who have gone through menopause. Some people may still experience adequate lubrication to avoid discomfort. However, others may need to purchase personal lubrication products.
People can help increase vaginal lubrication by:
increase vaginal lubrication
applying water-based lubricants before sex
using vaginal moisturizers that are suitable for internal use
washing with fragrance-free products
engaging in other sexual acts, such as clitoral stimulation and oral sex, before vaginal penetration
Summary
Vaginal dryness is a common symptom of menopause. It can be uncomfortable, affecting a person’s everyday life and making sex painful.
Lubricants may help relieve the discomfort caused by vaginal dryness as they can add moisture and make sex more pleasurable. However, not all lubricants will be suitable for everyone, and a person should note the ingredients before making a purchase. Additionally, individuals should check that a lubricant will not reduce the effectiveness of condoms or other forms of barrier birth control and not degrade sex toys.
If a person does not want to use lubricant, they may wish to consider alternatives, including vaginal moisturizers, creams, estrogen products, and supplements.