Condom Lubricant Guide — Water vs Silicone vs Oil | ULEX®
By ULEX® Editorial Team • 6/2/2026
Condom Lubricant Guide
Why Lubricant Matters
Lubrication:
- Reduces friction — decreasing breakage risk
- Enhances sensation — for both partners
- Prevents micro-tears — reducing STI transmission risk
- Increases comfort — particularly important for longer sessions
Water-Based Lubricants
Safe with: Latex, polyisoprene, polyurethane condoms ✅
Pros:
- Compatible with all condom materials
- Safe for use with sex toys (silicone toys included)
- Easy to clean
- Available everywhere
Cons:
- Absorbs quickly — needs reapplication
- Can feel 'watery' rather than slick
Silicone-Based Lubricants
Safe with: Latex, polyisoprene, polyurethane condoms ✅ Not safe with: Silicone sex toys ❌
Pros:
- Long-lasting — doesn't absorb or dry out
- Waterproof — suitable for wet environments
- Silky, high-quality feel
- ULEX® pre-lubrication standard
Cons:
- Degrades silicone toys
- Harder to wash off
Oil-Based Lubricants
Safe with: Polyurethane condoms only ⚠️ NOT safe with: Latex or polyisoprene condoms ❌
Oil-based lubricants (coconut oil, baby oil, petroleum jelly, body lotion) degrade natural rubber latex — creating microtears that can lead to STI transmission or pregnancy. Never use oil-based lubricants with ULEX® Premium Condoms.
ULEX® Pre-Lubrication
All ULEX® Premium Condoms come pre-lubricated with premium silicone lubricant — calibrated for the correct amount to enhance sensation without masking texture (important for ribbed and dotted variants).
Additional lubricant can be applied outside the condom — use water-based or silicone-based only.
ULEX® Premium Condoms — premium silicone lubrication, TÜV certified. Available at ulex.co.