Ask the Sexpert: A luxuriance of lube

Dear Shanna, 
Can using too much lube at one time wind up being dangerous? If so, what is the appropriate amount of lube to use?
– Slick Rick in the Highlands

Dear Slick Rick,

Great question! The question of how much lube to use is certainly one that is asked often, and the answer really depends on the type of sexual activity you’re having. You can always add more if things get too full of friction, and you can always wipe some away if you use more than you needed. Start with a dollop, maybe a dime or quarter size amount, and see if that’s enough. If not, keep going. If you’re doing an activity that might use a whole hand, of course you’re going to need more lube than if you’re just using a finger or two. There is no perfect “right amount,” so ask for feedback, and add or wipe up based on your partner’s responses.

As far as whether you can use TOO much lube, the easy answer is no. Keep in mind that silicone-based lubes and oil-based lubes are more difficult to clean up (especially from tile and hardwood floors), as they are less water soluble and can be a slipping hazard. However, as far as using too much lube in or on someone’s body? You could wrestle in gallons of lube, and people do, and walk away with nothing more than incredibly moisturized skin. And it’s definitely better to have too much lube and wipe some up, than to not have enough lube and have someone saying ouch!

So lube on up and have a slippery and salacious time!

– Shanna