"Lube aids in many ways when having any type of sex," Irma, a certified sex educator, told POPSUGAR. If you're having penetrative sex, lube helps to enhance pleasure between both individuals, she explained. "It helps ease any discomfort caused by the friction during penetration when experiencing vaginal dryness, as well as for anal penetration," she continued. Lube can also prevent abrasions or tissue damage for penis-owners, she said. Additionally, "it can also be used on erogenous zones, which could offer pleasurable sensations as well."
Irma emphasised that "You can never have enough lube for anal sex." She explained that it's important for anal play because the anus doesn't self-lubricate like other genital areas and saliva isn't lubricating enough. For anal penetration, she recommends an oil- or hybrid-based lubricant. "You can use water-based lubes as well, especially if [you're] using condoms because it won't break down the rubber like oil-based lubes can, but you would have to reapply lube frequently during play to stay lubricated," Irma said.
She recommends Stay Sexy's Lip Gloss Personal Lubricant ($25). It's water-based, which she said tends to be more lubricating, and provides more pleasure when paired with silicone toys.