Anal Lubricants

Anal lubricant has a thicker consistency than regular lubricant and stays in place longer—exactly what you need for anal sex or when using anal toys. Here you’ll find water-based, silicone-based, and hybrid anal lubricants, ranging from thin to very thick formulas. Numbing anal lubricant is also available for those seeking pain relief. The anal canal does not produce its own lubrication—so lube is not a luxury here, but a necessity. Check out the water-based lubes and silicone lubes for more options.

What is anal lubricant?

Anal lubricant — also known as anal lubricants or anal lube — is a lubricant with a thicker consistency specially formulated for anal penetration. The anal canal does not produce its own lubrication, which means that lubricant is always necessary for anal sex—not optional. A thick lubricant stays in place longer than a thin formula and needs to be reapplied less frequently. Anal lubricant is available in water-based, silicone-based, and hybrid formulations. Numbing anal lubricant contains a local anesthetic such as lidocaine or benzocaine. The best anal lubricant depends on the type of condom and toy material used.

Why is lubricant necessary for anal sex?

The rectum does not have glands that produce moisture during sexual arousal—unlike the vagina. Anal penetration without lubricant causes friction that leads to pain, irritation, and microscopic tears in the mucous membrane. These micro-tears significantly increase the risk of STI transmission. Lubricant eliminates friction, making the experience more comfortable and safer. The same applies when using anal toys: even with a small plug, lubricant is necessary for comfortable insertion.

Types and Varieties

Water-based anal lubricant

The safest choice when using silicone anal toys and when used with condoms. Thick in consistency. Drawback: dries faster than silicone or hybrid. Reapply as needed or choose an extra-thick formula. Brands: EasyGlide Anal, Swiss Navy Anal, pjur Back Door.

Silicone-based anal lubricant

Long-lasting and water-resistant. The best choice for longer sessions or use in the shower. Not suitable for silicone toys. Condom-safe with latex. Brands: Eros Anal, pjur Back Door Silicone.

Hybrid anal lubricant

A combination of water-based and a small amount of silicone for a longer-lasting effect than pure water-based lubricants, while remaining compatible with most silicone toys. A good middle ground for regular use. Also check out the hybrid lubricant collection.

Numbing anal lubricant

Lubricant with lidocaine or benzocaine that reduces pain sensitivity in the anal area. Intended for people who find anal sex painful and want to lower the threshold. Important: Pain during anal sex is a sign that something isn’t right—not enough preparation, not enough lube, going too fast. Numbing lube masks that signal. Use it only if you already have some experience with anal sex and know what you’re doing.

Anal lube for fisting

Extremely thick formulas for fisting — an activity involving the insertion of a hand or fist. Requires a specially thick lube that provides ample coverage. Check out the fisting lube collection for the full range.

What should you look for when buying?

Choose the base based on your toys: water-based for silicone toys, silicone-based for metal or glass toys, hybrid if you want to mix and match. Choose the consistency based on the activity: thinner for solo use of a small plug, thicker for penetrative sex or larger toys. Avoid numbing lubricant if you’re a beginner. Apply anal lubricant to both the outside and inside of the anal canal for optimal lubrication.

Frequently Asked Questions About Anal Lubricant

Which lubricant is best for anal play?

For use with silicone toys and condoms: a thick, water-based anal lubricant. For longer sessions without silicone toys: silicone-based. For a good balance: hybrid anal lubricant. Avoid standard thin lubricants—they’re too watery for anal use and need to be reapplied too often.

How much lube do you use for anal sex?

More than you think. Apply a generous amount to and around the anus, and also apply it internally with a finger. Reapply as soon as you feel friction—don’t wait until it becomes uncomfortable. More lube is always better than less when it comes to anal sex.

Is numbing anal lube safe?

When used correctly, yes, but with reservations. The numbing agent eliminates the pain signal that indicates you’re going too fast or aren’t sufficiently lubricated. Use numbing lube only if you already have experience, have built up a good routine, and know that the pain isn’t caused by a problem but by tension or getting used to it.

Can I just use regular lube for anal sex instead of special anal lube?

Technically, you can, but a regular thin lube is suboptimal for anal use—it runs off and dries out faster. A special thick anal lube is noticeably more comfortable and safer. It’s a small investment that makes a big difference in your experience.