If you’ve always thought lube and pleasure gel were only for people who suffer with dryness in their sensitive areas, you’ve been missing out on a whole world of sexual sensations.

While they’re excellent at moistening things ready for the big event, they can also make sex a more intense, explosive experience.

More and more couples are now using lube and pleasure gel simply because it increases their enjoyment of sex. An Indiana University study[1] of over 2,000 women found that lubricants used during sexual activity alone or with a partner led to higher levels of pleasurable and satisfying sex.

And it’s not just the girls who benefit – men, women, solo or in a couple, there’s a product that can make sex even better.

What are lube and pleasure gel made of?

Lubricants and gels are made from water, oil or silicone. As oil-based products can cause the latex in condoms to deteriorate, it is better to stick to silicone or water-based ones. Silicone-based lubricants such as Durex Play Feel are popular as they don’t dry out quickly and last longer than water-based alternatives. Water-based lubes such as Durex Play Feel are easily washed off, aren’t sticky and are compatible to use with Durex condoms.

How they can help

Wetter is better when it comes to sex! Lube and pleasure gel help minimise the chances of feeling sore, chafed and uncomfortable. A  new generation of gels offer other benefits, too. From warming or tingling to orgasm-enhancing (yes, really), there are plenty of lubes to sample.

Try them out on yourself first, then suggest your favourites to your partner as an exciting addition to your bedroom antics. If you’re worried about suggesting a lubricant, explain that it’s not because anything is wrong, it’s simply because you want to try something new that can make sex even better for you both. Even if you’re used to using a lubricant, sampling a gel with an extra kick to it can ramp up the excitement and lead you to a whole new world of discoveries.

For example, intimate massage gels such as Durex Play Warming can be used anywhere on the body. That means no awkward pauses while you swap products if a back rub leads to something more, and no need to panic if the massage oil comes into contact with the condom, as they’re safe to use together.

What do lube and pleasure gels feel like?

Well, it depends on which product you try, but most give you a fabulously slippery sensation. There are lots of different flavoured ones that can be used as a normal lubricant, or to give a tasty treat when licking body parts. Warming gels such as Durex Play Warming give you a gentle warmth that stimulates the areas you apply it to. Durex Play Tingle will wake up new sensations by warming, cooling and tingling, while still being gentle on your intimate areas.

If you want to create a stir together, try a combined set such as Embrace Pleasure Gels, which is specifically designed with couples in mind – one is warming, one tingling, and when the two come together, they create a sensation that has to be felt to be believed!