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The 19 Best Anal Lubes, According To Sex Therapists And Online Reviews

Remember: When it comes to anal, the wetter, the better. 💦

By Gigi Engle, Sabrina Talbert, Naydeline Mejia and Gabrielle Kassel
best lubes for anal sex
Jewelyn Butron

Lube is to anal sex what communication is to a healthy relationship: vital. Without lubrication, anal sex isn’t just less pleasurable, but often painful—and anal shouldn't painful, says Jordan Soper, PsyD, an AASECT-certified sex therapist. But with lube and a little patience, anal play can be downright orgasmic.

When choosing the best anal lube, the slicker, the better. “Silicone-based lubes are considered top-tier for anal play because they stay on for longer periods of time compared to water-based lubes, which are more easily absorbed into the body, ” Soper explains. That said, if you're adding silicone toys into the mix, avoid silicone-based lube—it can cause deterioration, which can both ruin your toys and create a perfect environment for bacteria to grow.

  • 1
    Tush Cush

    Best Overall Anal Lube

    Hello Cake Tush Cush

    $20 at hellocake.com
    Read more
  • 2
    BabeLube Silk

    Best Lightweight Formula Lube

    Babeland BabeLube Silk

    Read more
  • 3
    the butters all-natural oil-based lube

    Best Anal Lube Butter

    B-Vibe the butters all-natural oil-based lube

    Read more
  • 4
    Organic Coconut Oil

    Best Coconut Oil Lube

    Nutiva Organic Coconut Oil

    Read more
  • 5
    Anal Lubricant

    Best-Reviewed Anal Lube

    Lynk Pleasure Products Anal Lubricant

    Read more

Now, onto the good part. Check out these 19 best anal lubes, picked from a mix of expert recommendations and customer reviews.

Why should you use lube during anal sex?

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Unlike the vagina, the anus does not self-lubricate in response to sexual stimulation, explains gynecologist Alyssa Dweck, MD. Moreover, the sphincter muscles in the anus are high tone, or tight, in order to keep things in, Dweck adds. As a result, to facilitate anal penetration, lube is essential.

"Lubrication increases moisture in the area, and therefore helps decrease the amount of friction during penetrative play," says Soper. Too much friction can irritate the delicate anal tissues and create microtears in the anus, increasing the risk of infection. To avoid all that, lubricant is absolutely necessary whether you're inserting a toy or body part up there.

What types of lube are safe to use for anal play?

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Most lubes you might use for vaginal, vulvar, penile, or pleasure product play can double as anal lube. This includes: water, silicone, and oil-based lubricants, says gynecologist Sherry Ross, MD.

You should watch out for flavored and scented lubes, though: Some have irritating and sometimes desensitizing ingredients, which can cause people to go deeper, harder, or thicker than their body would like, causing a risk of pain or injury, Soper says.

How do I choose between oil-, water-, and silicone-based lube for anal?

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Soper recommends thicker, silicone-based lubes for long-lasting play. But remember: If you're using silicone anal toys, oil- or water-based lube is the safest choice so you don't degrade the silicone of the toy, says Donna Oriowo, PhD, a certified sex therapist.

On the other hand, if you're using a condom, a dental dam, or any other kind of latex barrier, opt for a silicone- or water-based formula. That's because "oils break down the latex in condoms," says Oriowo. "Generally speaking, as long as you're not using a silicone toy, you want a silicone-based lube."

But if you want to stay on the safer side, stick to water-based lubes, which tend to be compatible with both silicone toys and latex condoms. Plus, they're easier to wash off and don't stain sheets. The only downside: You might have to reapply a few times, which could disrupt your groove.

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What ingredients should I avoid when shopping for anal lube?

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While many people can tolerate any and all ingredients, generally speaking, gynecologists frown upon fragrant and flavored lubricants, says Dweck. Not only are the specific components of th ingredients in these lubes often unclear, but some folks may be sensitive to fragrances and flavors, she explains.

Some other ingredients you might find in anal lubes that you should avoid include: propylene glycol, or PEG, parabens, glycerin, petroleum, and dyes, says Ross. "All of these ingredients can affect the delicate pH of the anus and increase the risk of infection or irritation," she explains.

So basically, petroleum-based products such as baby oil and Vaseline are not safe to use as lube when engaging in either vaginal or anal play. But if you were thinking of using coconut or olive oil during your next sex sesh, go for it–as long as you're not using latex condoms. Otherwise, stick to the over-the-counter stuff.

1
Best Overall Anal Lube

Hello Cake Tush Cush

Tush Cush
1
Best Overall Anal Lube

Hello Cake Tush Cush

$20 at hellocake.com
Pros
  • Latex friendly
  • Gluten-free & vegan
Cons
  • Not edible

If you’re planning to get rowdy with a glass or stainless steel anal toy, there’s no better bedmate than this lubricant from Cake. Formulated specifically for butt play, this silicone-water hybrid formula is basically the lube version of waterproof mascara: long-lasting.

"It's a thicker lube. It's a little bit more viscous, so it lasts longer," says Oriowo. "Water-based lubricants may dry out after a little bit." So, this one is perfect for those time-intensive bedroom sessions.

IngredientsPropylene Glycol, Water (Aqua), Phenoxyethanol, Dimethicone, Cellulose Gum, Cyclopentasiloxane, Sodium Polyacrylate, Trideceth-6, PEG/PPG- 18/18 Dimethicone
Type of LubeHybrid (water + premium silicone)
Size3.3 fl oz.
Compatible With All ToysYes
2
Best Lightweight Formula Lube

Babeland BabeLube Silk

BabeLube Silk
2
Best Lightweight Formula Lube

Babeland BabeLube Silk

Now 58% Off
Pros
  • pH balanced
  • Latex friendly
Cons
  • Not super long-lasting

Hybrid lubes are all the rage. You get the staying power of a silicone lube, with all the compatibility of a water-based formula. Thanks to its silky-smooth texture, BabeLube Silk glides on like a dream and will never disappoint. Feel free to use it with your favorite anal sex toys—it won’t cause any pesky damage to silicone toys as long as you clean it immediately after use.

"For anal toys, this is really long-lasting. I'd recommend using it thick," writes one reviewer. "For vaginal, just a bit is all that is needed."

IngredientsPurified Water, Plant Cellulose (from Cotton), Isopropyl Palmitate, Polysorbate 20, Dimethicone, Emollient Ester, Potassium Sorbate, Citric Acid
Type of LubeHybrid (water + silicone)
Size2 fl oz.
Compatible With All ToysYes
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3
Best Anal Lube Butter

B-Vibe the butters all-natural oil-based lube

the butters all-natural oil-based lube
3
Best Anal Lube Butter

B-Vibe the butters all-natural oil-based lube

Pros
  • Non-toxic & edible
  • Moisturizing
Cons
  • Not latex friendly

The Butters is a creamy, rich, oil-based lube that is an absolute must-buy for anal play. Its thick and smooth texture takes your anal experiences from good to mind-blowing. Plus, it leaves skin feeling soft and moisturized and will never, ever stain your sheets.

If you’re a pleasure-seeker who prides themselves on decadence, this lube is the way to go. Just take it from this reviewer: "This product is amazing! It actually makes sex a lot more pleasurable for myself and my partner. Not greasy, sticky, or oily. Blended beautifully!"

IngredientsAloe Vera Gel, Raw Shea Butter, Pure Coconut Oil, Pure Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Pure Grapeseed Oil, Pure Palm Kernel Oil, Pure Soy Lipid Emulsion, Apple Cider Vinegar, Guar Bean Powder
Type of LubeOil
Size4.3 oz
Compatible With All ToysNo; not safe for TPE & ABS plastic toys
4
Best Coconut Oil Lube

Nutiva Organic Coconut Oil

Organic Coconut Oil
4
Best Coconut Oil Lube

Nutiva Organic Coconut Oil

Credit: Amazon
Pros
  • Organic
  • Moisturizing
Cons
  • Not latex friendly

Coconut oil is a great choice for anal play, especially for anyone looking for a safe, all-natural lube option. Unlike baby oil or Vaseline, which will dry out and irritate the anal tissue, coconut oil will stay smooth. Just remember, this one isn't safe to use with latex condoms.

"Coconut oil has natural anti-bacterial properties in it, which for many people is attractive. But we have to keep in mind that there is good bacteria in the butt that we don't want to kill," explains Lisa Finn, sex educator and marketing director for Babeland.

While this might be a great (and convenient!) option for many people, others might be sensitive to this type of oil. If that sounds like you, Finn recommends using a coconut-based lube because they're formulated specifically for sexual activities, or opting for something with an oil-like consistency such as a silicone- or aloe-based lube.

Ingredients100% Organic, Unrefined, Cold-Pressed, Virgin Coconut Oil
Type of LubeOil
Size15 fl oz.
Compatible With All ToysNo; not compatible with most sex toys
5
Best-Reviewed Anal Lube

Lynk Pleasure Products Anal Lubricant

Anal Lubricant
5
Best-Reviewed Anal Lube

Lynk Pleasure Products Anal Lubricant

Pros
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Non-sticky
Cons
  • Not very long-lasting compared to silicone- or oil-based options

This natural water-based lube from Lynk has racked up almost 10,000 five-star ratings on Amazon. In fact, one reviewer says, "I love this lube, is [sic] not sticky at all, it tastes great, and it really helps for anal sex, it’s great for hand jobs too. Most lubes are sticky to the point you have to get in the shower after, and... it doesn’t dry out fast like others I’ve tried."

This lube's ingredient list is clean, the price point rocks, and it has the perfect silky consistency for anal sex. Bonus: The pump-style bottle makes for way less mess.

IngredientsWater/Aqua/Eau, Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Cellulose Gum, EDTA, Carbomer, PEG-90M, Tetrahydroxypropyl Ethylenediamine, Methylparaben, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate
Type of LubeWater
Size8 fl oz.
Compatible With All ToysYes
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6
Best Thick Anal Lube

Wicked Sensual Care Anal Jelle Lubricant

Anal Jelle Lubricant
6
Best Thick Anal Lube

Wicked Sensual Care Anal Jelle Lubricant

Now 11% Off
Pros
  • Long-lasting & thick formula
  • Latex friendly
Cons
  • On the pricier side

Wicked Sensual Care's Jelle lube was specifically made for backdoor play, so you know it's guaranteed to be slick and thick. This long-lasting water-based lube feels like silicone, but won't disintegrate your silicone anal toys and latex condoms.

One reviewer calls this the "best lube out there" and notes that it has made anal play more comfortable for both them and their wife. "It lasts until we’re both done. Great product," they write.

IngredientsWater, Propylent Glycol, Cellulose Gum, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe) Leaf Juice, Olea Europaeu (Olive) Leaf Extract, Hydorxyethyl- cellulose, Disodium EDTA,Citic Acid, Diazolidinyl Urea, Sodium Benzoate,Potassium Sorbate
Type of LubeWater
Size4 fl oz.
Compatible With All ToysYes
7
Best Long-Lasting Anal Lube

Silicone Lube

Silicone Lube
7
Best Long-Lasting Anal Lube

Silicone Lube

Pros
  • Long-lasting & thick formula
  • pH balanced
Cons
  • Not water-soluble, so hard to wash off
  • May stain

If thick thighs save lives, thick lube saves anal canals. (Put it on a T-shirt!) With its silicone-based formula, this long-lasting pick is one of the thickest on the market, making it the best option for anyone looking for something pillow-y to soften the sensation of anal penetration.

"My partner and I love this. It feels smooth and natural but last [sic] longer so you don’t have to stop the action to reapply it," writes one reviewer.

IngredientsDimethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethiconol, Phenyl Trimethicone
Type of LubeSilicone
Size4 oz.
Compatible With All ToysNo; not compatible with silicone toys
8
Silkiest Anal Lube

System JO H20 Anal Water-Based Personal Lubricant

H20 Anal Water-Based Personal Lubricant
8
Silkiest Anal Lube

System JO H20 Anal Water-Based Personal Lubricant

Now 22% Off
Credit: Jo
Pros
  • Easy to wash off
  • Long-lasting & slick formula
Cons
  • Cooling feature may be uncomfortable for some users

System JO's anal lubricant is known for its silky texture and long staying power. Some lubes made for butt play can feel heavy and gross, but this water-based one, despite its perfect-for-anal viscosity, won't.

One reviewer adds, "This lube wasn't too thin, and stayed slippery for as long as we needed it to. Even though it is water-based, it has a thicker viscosity that lasts a duration."

IngredientsPlant-Based Glycerin, Water (Aqua), Cellulose Gum, Methylparaben, Propylparaben
Type of LubeWater
Size8 fl oz.
Compatible With All ToysYes
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9
Most Versatile Anal Lube

Good Clean Love Almost Naked Personal Lubricant

On Sale
Almost Naked Personal Lubricant
9
Most Versatile Anal Lube

Good Clean Love Almost Naked Personal Lubricant

Now 20% Off
Pros
  • pH balanced
  • Certified organic & eco-friendly
Cons
  • May require reapplying multiple times

This is a versatile lube that's completely organic and all-natural—you won’t find any harsh chemicals or sketchy parabens. It's water-based, contains aloe, and is compatible with condoms, but since it's not an anal-specific lube, you may need to reapply a bit.

"When the body is kept moisturized, as well as lubricated, it will help the body be able to stretch and allow those muscles to move," says Finn. "It's going to help hydrate beneath the skin to allow comfortable movement and prevent things like fissures and tearing."

IngredientsOrganic Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Xanthan Gum, Agar, Lactic Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, & Natural Flavor
Type of LubeWater
Size4 fl oz.
Compatible With All ToysYes
10
Best Affordable Anal Lube

Astroglide Premium Waterproof Silicone Personal Lube

On Sale
Premium Waterproof Silicone Personal Lube
10
Best Affordable Anal Lube

Astroglide Premium Waterproof Silicone Personal Lube

Pros
  • Waterproof & long-lasting formula
  • Latex friendly
  • Hypoallergenic
Cons
  • Hard to wash off

This is an affordable drugstore brand that is tried and true for anal play. In fact, one Amazon reviewer calls it "the perfect key for unlocking the backdoor." They also say: "As someone who enjoys all things anal it’s a definite must have for me!! The slip is AMAZING and a little goes a long LONG way!!"

This lube stays in place—even in water—which means it’s a solid choice for anal play in the shower. The formula is very gentle and non-irritating to the skin. Astroglide is silicone-based, compatible with natural rubber latex condoms, and super slippery.

IngredientsCyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Cyclohexasiloxane
Type of LubeSilicone
Size2.5 fl oz.
Compatible With All ToysNo; not compatible with silicone toys
11
Best Organic Anal Lube

Sliquid Organics Natural Lubricating Gel

Natural Lubricating Gel
11
Best Organic Anal Lube

Sliquid Organics Natural Lubricating Gel

Pros
  • Glycerin & paraben free
  • Non-toxic
Cons
  • Not hypoallergenic

This lube is 100-percent organic, vegan, and infused with green tea extracts. Plus, as a water-based lube, it's compatible with all your toys.

Not to mention, it's versatile, according to one happy reviewer: "We've tried a ton of the organic lubricants. This is by far our favorite. It's not sticky, and it doesn't dry up quick like some of the other more 'creamy' organic lubes. Has worked great for both vaginal and anal, and is even good for oral as it's organic."

IngredientsOrganic Aloe Barbadensis Decolorized Leaf Juice*, Organic Agar Agar, Organic Guar Gum, Natural Tocopherols (Vitamin E), Organic Hibiscus Extract, Organic Flax Extract, Organic Green Tea Extract, Organic Sunflower Seed Extract, Potassium Sorbate, Citric Acid
Type of LubeWater
Size8.5 fl oz.
Compatible With All ToysYes
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12
Best For The Basics

Goodparts Ultra-Smooth Silicone Lube

Ultra-Smooth Silicone Lube
12
Best For The Basics

Goodparts Ultra-Smooth Silicone Lube

Credit: Goodparts
Pros
  • pH balanced
  • Long-lasting & slick formula
Cons
  • Hard to wash off

This silicone-based lube is high-grade and long-lasting, delivering the basics at top quality. Plus, it's also vegan, hypoallergenic, and free of parabens.

"OK, this lube is awesome!" said one reviewer. "Super smooth, long lasting, not too thick, never sticky. I’m just so impressed! Great product!"

IngredientsDimethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethiconol, Phenyl Trimethicone
Type of LubeSilicone
Size4 fl oz.
Compatible With All ToysNo; not compatible with silicone toys
13
Best Multipurpose Anal Lube

Überlube

Überlube
13
Best Multipurpose Anal Lube

Überlube

Pros
  • Long-lasting & silky
  • Pump top for easy application
Cons
  • Water-resistant, making it difficult to wash off

Überlube is an industry favorite—and for good reason. It’s so gentle on skin, you can even use it to remove your makeup (yes, really!). This silicone-based lube is light to the touch and has a slick, slippery feel.

Not to mention, it delivers major bang for your buck, says one reviewer: "This lube is the tops for just about EVERY kind of sex - anal (not thick but super slick), oral (tasteless/odorless and doesn't wash away with spit), shower sex (water-resistant), & masturbation (incredibly long-lasting)."

IngredientsDimethicone, Dimethiconal, Cyclomethicone, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E)
Type of LubeSilicone
Size50 ml.
Compatible With All ToysNo; not compatible with silicone toys
14
Best Almond Oil Lube

NOW Solutions Almond Oil

On Sale
Almond Oil
14
Best Almond Oil Lube

NOW Solutions Almond Oil

Now 35% Off
Pros
  • Moisturizing
  • Organic & body-safe formula
Cons
  • Not latex friendly

Almond oil has a lovely, nutty scent and is completely body-safe—just be sure you’re purchasing 100-percent all-natural almond oil. But FYI, this natural lube isn't compatible with latex condoms.

"If you're not using toys and you're not using condoms, it's pretty much your world. Choose the thing that you like the best," says Oriowo. However, if you have a nut allergy, she recommends opting for coconut oil instead.

IngredientsPrunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil
Type of LubeOil
Size16 fl oz.
Compatible With All ToysNo; not compatible with latex
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15
Best Relaxing Anal Lube

Analyse Me! Silicone-Based Relaxing Anal Glide

Analyse Me! Silicone-Based Relaxing Anal Glide
15
Best Relaxing Anal Lube

Analyse Me! Silicone-Based Relaxing Anal Glide

Now 10% Off
Credit: Amazon
Pros
  • Naturally relaxing
  • Latex friendly
Cons
  • Not compatible with most toys

Thanks to its star ingredient, jojoba extract, this silicone-based lube makes you feel relaxed but not numb, ideal for a good—and safe—time!

"It has great longevity, great lubrication, doesn't need over application, and most importantly, does what few other anal lubes do: relax the muscles so that you can 'open up' much easier without pain," says one reviewer. "This is a godsend to be able to enjoy anal sex to the fullest."

IngredientsDimethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethiconol, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil
Type of LubeSilicone
Size3.4 fl oz.
Compatible With All ToysNo; not compatible with silicone toys
16
Best For Beginners

Babeland BabeLube Gel

BabeLube Gel
16
Best For Beginners

Babeland BabeLube Gel

Pros
  • Non-sticky
  • Glycerin, gluten & paraben free
Cons
  • May need to reapply

Finn describes this lube as "slightly thinner than a hair gel, but still has that thick viscosity to it." If you're cool with the thick consistency for anal play, this is a great place to start. If this is your first time buying anal lube, this affordable option—only $6!—that you can feel confident trying.

IngredientsDeionized Water, Polyoxyethylene, Sodium Carbomer, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin
Type of LubeWater
Size2 oz.
Compatible With All ToysYes
Headshot of Gigi Engle
Gigi Engle
Gigi Engle is a writer, certified sexologist, sex coach, and sex educator. Her work regularly appears in many publications including Brides, Marie Claire, Elle Magazine, Teen Vogue, Glamour and Women's Health.
Woman's healthWoman's health Lettermark logo

Sabrina is an editorial assistant for Women’s Health. When she’s not writing, you can find her running, training in mixed martial arts, or reading.

Headshot of Naydeline Mejia
Assistant Editor

Naydeline Mejia is an assistant editor at Women’s Health, where she covers sex, relationships, and lifestyle for WomensHealthMag.com and the print magazine. She is a proud graduate of Baruch College and has more than two years of experience writing and editing lifestyle content. When she’s not writing, you can find her thrift-shopping, binge-watching whatever reality dating show is trending at the moment, and spending countless hours scrolling through Pinterest.

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