What’s the difference? Which one is the BEST? These are both common questions get asked while chatting with you through events, conferences, social media, and customer service.
When it comes to choosing the right lube, it really depends on personal preference. Water-based lubricants are the most commonly available, and are mess-free and easy to clean because they absorb into your body better. Silicone-based lubricants, on the other hand, are often the go-to choice for people seeking a super long-lasting lube and a silky-smooth feel.
At ONE®, we’re also proud to formulate using high-quality, medical grade ingredients. All our lubes are non-GMO, vegan-friendly, and FDA-cleared as medical devices. From our ONE® Move® silicone lubricant to our Oasis® water-based lubricant and Oasis Silk® hybrid lubricant, quality is our priority!
Now, let’s dive deeper into the differences between these lubricants. What do people actually want to know before using it? Here's a quick breakdown of the essentials.
1. How is silicone different from water-based lube?
Silicone lube lasts significantly longer and doesn't dry out or absorb into the skin. That means less reapplying and more uninterrupted fun. A little goes a long way with silicone lube! Unlike water-based lubes, silicone lubricant won't wash off easily with water. That means it’s great for shower play, but not ideal if you're trying to clean up quickly. Silicone lubricant can also stain sheets, so be careful how you apply.
2. Is it safe with all sex toys?
Although ONE® Move® is made of only 2 ingredients, the fact that it’s made with medical grade silicone means it’s not compatible with toys made of silicone. Silicone-based lube can degrade the surface of silicone sex toys, potentially leading to a sticky mess and damaged toys. If you're using toys, opt for hard materials like glass, metal, or ABS plastic—or do a spot test first. OR use a water-based lubricant like ONE® Oasis® if you’re playing with silicone toys. Not all silicone lubricants damage silicone sex toys (particularly if both are high-quality) so you can do a small spot test on the side toy to see if there’s any impact.
3. Can it be used for anal or vaginal sex?
Yes to both! Move can be used for both anal or vaginal sex. Move’s luxuriously smooth and slicker texture makes it especially popular for anal sex, where extra glide and longer-lasting lubrication are key!
4. Will it stain sheets or clothing?
Silicone can leave oily spots on fabric, and it may take a few washes to come out of your sheets. How to prevent this? Be careful how you apply the lube. Using a towel(s), or laying down a blanket is a simple fix. Also dry-shampoo sometimes does the trick! If you’re traveling, we highly recommend putting your lubricant in a ziplock bag in case the lube opens while in your suitcase.
5. Is it body-safe?
ONE® Move® is vegan-friendly, gentle & non-GMO, and contains no glycerin, propylene glycol, sulfates, hormones, parabens, dyes, fragrances, oils. Still, we always highly recommend reading the label to make sure you’re not allergic to any of the ingredients - and patch test on yourself before playing if you’re unsure!
Also because ONE® Move® contains no water, it is inert and thus pH-neutral. Meaning, it shouldn’t alter pH. Different parts of our bodies have different levels of acidity. Vaginal pH usually hovers around 4 and anal pH at a 7. Matching the pH level in lube to your sexual activity of choice can reduce the risk of infection or irritation. It is important to note that pH only applies to water-based lubricants; silicones are inert and do not alter pH. Our ONE® Oasis® water-based lubricant has an average pH of 5.38 and our Oasis Silk® hybrid lubricant has an average pH of 5.23.
Silicone-based lube is a favorite for good reason–durability, slickness, and versatility. Just be mindful with your toys and cleanup, body and you’re good to go!
6. Are your lubricants condom compatible?
ONE® Move®, ONE® Oasis®, and Oasis Silk® are all condom compatible with natural rubber and polyisoprene condoms. ONE® Move® is also compatible with condoms made from polyurethane and nitrile. Do not use anything oil based, such as Vaseline or lotions, with latex condoms. Oil breaks down latex, causing the latex condom to break.
7. What is the best lubricant to use?
It really depends what you are looking for. If you like long-lasting glide, try silicone-based lubricants. If you want something a little easier to clean up, try water-based lubricants. If you want to try the best of both worlds, take a look at hybrid lubricants. There are so many lubricant brands and options to try and explore. Check out the ONE range of lubricants here.