KY Jelly Personal Lubricant

What it is

A KY water-based personal lubricant. Water-based is the default for a reason: it is the only base that is safe with both latex condoms and silicone toys, it rinses off with warm water, and it does not stain.

What people use it for

• Comfort and glide, which is the cheapest way to make almost any condom feel better and the step most people skip.
• Dryness, whether occasional or ongoing.
• Reducing friction, which is also what stops condoms tearing.

How to use it

1. Apply a small amount to the outside of the condom, or to either partner, and add more as needed.
2. Reapply during use. Water-based lubricant absorbs and dries out faster than other bases — that is its one trade-off, and a splash of water revives it rather than needing more product.
3. Rinse off with warm water afterwards.

Why water-based

Oil-based products — petroleum jelly, baby oil, lotion, massage oil — destroy latex within minutes and are a common cause of condom failure. Silicone lubricant is condom-safe but degrades silicone toys. Water-based is the one option with no such conflict, which is why it is the one to keep by default.

Safety and storage

For external and intimate use only. Stop using it if there is stinging, itching or irritation, and see a doctor if that does not settle.

Do not use as a substitute for medical advice on dryness. Persistent dryness has causes worth identifying — hormonal changes, medication, infection — and lubricant manages the symptom rather than the cause.

Close the cap after use and store at room temperature, out of direct sunlight and out of reach of children.