So, in case you haven’t heard, CBD oil is having ~a moment~. You can find CBD-infused gummies, drinks, and other goodies to help relieve everything from anxiety to chronic pain to inflammation, and you can even get CBD lube to amp up your sex life. CBD, which stands for cannabidiol, is a chemical found in marijuana plants, but fear not — since it lacks the psychoactive properties of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), it can’t get you high.
“CBD, or cannabidiol, is a non-intoxicating compound derived from the hemp plant, a member of the cannabis family,” explains Laura Dowling, founder, CEO, and chief scientist for fabÜ. “It does not cause a ‘high’, but it does interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS).” While it might not have any psychoactive properties, when added to lubricants, CBD *can* promote increased blood flow and vaginal relaxation. This can mean better, wetter, less painful sex for you. Yes to that!
Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about CBD lube, and the best ones to shop now — courtesy of our sex writers.
Best CBD lubes at a glance
What is CBD lube?
“CBD lube is a personal lubricant that includes cannabidiol as an active ingredient,” Dowling explains.
Since CBD is thought to help with inflammation, this can be an especially helpful way for people with vulvas to have more pleasurable sex (particularly if you’re someone who suffers from vaginismus, vaginitis, PCOS, or vaginal tearing from childbirth). And in addition to easing vaginal pain and irritation during penetration, CBD lubes and oils can even lead to increased sensitivity for some, which means more big Os for you.
“While regular lubricants are designed to reduce friction, dryness, and enhance comfort during sex, CBD-infused lubricants aim to deliver additional therapeutic benefits, such as muscle relaxation, localised pain relief, and potentially increased blood flow and sensitivity,” Dowling adds.
What are the benefits of CBD lube?
You might be thinking: these are big claims for a tiny molecule, is there really any truth to the supposed benefits of CBD? While there are anecdotal reports of CBD products helping with intimacy, it’s worth noting, Dowling says, that research into its effectiveness has not yet been trialled on humans at a large-scale.
But while you may be a bit wary about CBD lubes (especially if you have sensitive skin), CBD-infused lubes are totally safe, and splurging for a lubricant that includes CBD may just be the move.
Those who tout the benefits of CBD lube have noticed a range of things that could add some pazzaz to your sexy time. “CBD lube may help relieve pain or discomfort during sex, especially for people experiencing vaginal dryness, tension, or menopausal change,” Dowling claims.
“CBD lube could also: assist in pelvic muscle relaxation, which can reduce anxiety and improve comfort; increase blood flow and enhance sensitivity in the genitals; and offer anti-inflammatory and skin-calming effects, potentially soothing irritation for those with sensitive skin or vulval conditions.”
How to choose the best CBD lube
It feels like everywhere you look nowadays — Boots, Tesco’s, Sainsbury’s, you name it — there are sexual wellness products galore. And while we’re not complaining (we could never!) not all lube, let alone CBD lube, is created equal.
To help you with your purchasing problems, we’ve broken down exactly what to look for when buying a CBD lube.
Body-safe
Repeat after us: anything that goes near your intimate areas must be body-safe. Say it louder for the people at the back! This means checking lubes are made from certified ingredients and and are pH-conscious, so they’re “specifically designed with female health in mind”, say founders of JOMO London Liv Bentley and Bella Campbell.
Lab tested and THC free
While it might sound like a fun night to get your vulva high on THC, it’s not recommended to put the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis directly on your vulva. “Ensure the product is safe, legal, and contains the claimed CBD amount,” say Bentley and Campbell.
To guarantee you don’t end up with a dodgy product, Dowling recommends looking for a lube that is CE-marked. “This ensures it meets safety, efficacy, and regulatory standards for intimate use during sex,” she says.
Transparency
As you’ll likely know, the demand for lubes, condoms, and sexual wellness products has led to them being readily available in every shop (online or brick and mortar) under the sun, but that doesn’t mean they’re reliable.
Here at Cosmo, we encourage you to exercise caution when shopping for sex toys, lube, or condoms on websites such as Amazon, Shein, Temu, and other large online retailers. And if you do have to buy from them, make sure you check they’re from a trusted storefront or are transparent about their materials and ingredients.
“Trusted brands disclose ingredients, CBD sourcing, and lab testing,” Campbell and Bentley say.
Suitability
You’ll also need to think about what situations you’ll be using your lube in. Okay, so, sex — duh… But if you’re using sex toys during sex, make sure you opt for a water-based formula to avoid it causing damage to your tech (which silicone-based lube can do). Water-based lube is also the best choice for condoms, as oil-based lubes can break down the latex.
If you’re not using toys, though, silicone lube is longer-lasting and can be used with condoms — making it ideal for anal sex.
How we tested the best CBD lubes
Here at Cosmo, we’re always urging you to use lube during sex — especially when you’re using a sex toy — and so of course we have to follow our own advice and do the same.
Our team of sex writers is lucky enough to be sent the latest and best sex tech and lube, so while we test everything from magic wand vibrators to vibrating cock rings, we took the brilliant opportunity (if we do say so ourselves) to add some slip ’n slide to our solo sex sessions with some CBD lube.
We even shared the love with friends, who at the time of testing were between the ages of 22 and 36 and fell at various points on the gender and sexuality spectrum. Each of us looked at factors such as the bottle type, the levels of lubrication, consistency of the lube, whether it could be used with a sex toy, and how well it stood up to its relaxation and sensitivity-boosting claims.
Keep reading to find out our faves!
The 6 best CBD lubes to buy now
1.Roam Adaptogenic Lubricant
Pros
- An enhanced take on Roam's signature water-based
- All natural ingredients
Cons
- Expensive for what it is
| Type | Water-based |
|---|---|
| Size | 50ml |
| Potency | 250mg of adaptogens |
| Key ingredients | Blue agave, aloe vera, jojoba |
| Condom safe | Ya |
Love Roam’s signature water-based lube? Well, you’re in luck, as they now offer a CBD-enhanced version! Made with 250mg of adaptogens, microbiome prebiotics, and Jojoba, this lube is designed to help you relax for more comfortable and pleasurable sex, and helps to restore your body’s natural balance.
“Completely changed my sex life,” one happy reviewer claims. “The lube is incredible — not sticky or gooey like other lubes and doesn’t dry out.” Texture truly is key...
2. Foria Awaken Arousal Oil with CBD
Pros
- 92% of users say it increases their sex drive
- Super slippery even though it's not *technically* lube
Cons
- Not compatible with condoms or sex toys
| Type | Oil-based |
|---|---|
| Size | 30ml |
| Potency | 60mg |
| Key ingredient | Coconut oil |
| Condom safe | Nope |
Blended from nine organic botanical extracts, Foria’s CBA arousal oil is formulated not only to increase sensitivity in the vulva, but provoke some tingling down below thanks to the addition of Kava root, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, peppermint, cacao, and vanilla.
While it’s not *technically* a lube, it can be used like one as it’s so slippery, or in combo with your fave slippy liquid. Simply apply it around 15 mins before you apply a lube to make sure the two don’t counteract each other, and remember that since it’s an oil it can’t be used with condoms or sex toys!
“This product creates a tingling and warming sensation that actually helps turn on my body and reach stronger Os!” one happy reviewer shares. Anything that gives us stronger Os, we’re in!
3. LELO x Bijoux Indiscrets Oral Sex Oil with CBD
Pros
- Don't have to work as hard during oral
- Reduces friction
Cons
- Can't use with condoms :(
| Type | Oral sex oil |
|---|---|
| Size | 15ml |
| Potency | Not stated |
| Key ingredient | Prunus amygdalus dulcis oil |
| Condom safe | Alas, no |
A lot of responsibility falls on saliva during head, and sometimes it doesn’t always produce the way you’d like it to. No probs, thanks to LELO’s collab with Bijoux Indiscrets — which blends the relaxing and sensitivity-inducing benefits of CBD with an oil designed specifically for cunnilingus or fellatio.
Place a couple of drops on your lips before you get down to business (hot), to add a whole load of slurp and sensation for you and the receiver. Once again, this is an oil so can’t be used with condoms — so pls make sure you and your partner are getting tested to prevent transmitting STIs (yup, that can happen during oral sex, too!).
4. JOMO London CBD Arousal Oil
Pros
- Gorgy bottle
- Use as a massage oil or lube
Cons
- Pretty spenny
| Type | Arousal oil |
|---|---|
| Size | 30ml |
| Potency | Not stated |
| Key ingredient | Vitis vinifera seed oil |
| Condom safe | Nah |
Looking for a massage oil and a lube at the same time? You’ve hit the jackpot! This formula from JOMO London — started by former Made in Chelsea star Liv Bentley and celeb make-up artist Bella Campbell, FYI — can be used as either.
Whether you’re looking to knead your shoulder muscles or rub your clit, applying two to three pumps of this oil will have you relaxing into the sensations in a matter of minutes. The scent of tropical ylang ylang doesn’t hurt, either...
5. Foria Intimacy Melts with CBD
Pros
- Can be used before or after sex
- Smells like chocolate!
Cons
- Takes 30-60 mins to fully work
| Type | Suppositories |
|---|---|
| Size | 4 pack |
| Potency | 50mg per suppository |
| Key ingredients | Cocoa butter |
| Condom safe | Nonono |
Sexual pleasure runs far deeper than the external portion of the clitoris — literally and figuratively. If you’re suffering from sexual discomfort, pain, or not being able to relax during anal or vaginal penetration, these cocoa butter and CBD suppositories can be popped inside you 30 minutes to an hour before sex, or directly after, to not only add a ton of glide but soothe any post-sex soreness.
6. HOWL Silicone Lubricant with CBD
Pros
- Great for anal sex
- Long-lasting slide
- Comes in different sized bottles
Cons
- Not for use with silicone sex toys!
| Type | Silicone lube |
|---|---|
| Size | 100ml |
| Potency | Not stated |
| Key ingredient | Dimethiconol |
| Condom safe | Ya |
HOWL — yup, the organisers of *those* queer parties — now has a lube! Backed by celebs like Bimini and JADE, the silicone formula is ideal for chilling out your backside before anal sex, or for some added slip during penetrative sex. Beware, though, silicone lube isn’t compatible with silicone sex toys, so make sure you don’t ruin your fave wand, rabbit, or dildo (because if there’s anything antithetical to a relaxed vulva, it’s that).
Plus, we <3 supporting brands that advocate for queer pleasure. A win all round!
How to use CBD lube
Our main port of call on the lube boat is to advise you to slather it on — and liberally. And while we wouldn’t be opposed to you doing the same with CBD lube, firstly it can be a little more spenny than regular lube, and secondly you’ll need to wait a little longer after applying than you would otherwise due to the active ingredient.
The key here is to make sure you read the instructions on your bottle — some brands, like JOMO London, recommend waiting a few minutes for the lube to absorb before getting down to business.
It’s also wise to check whether your lube is suitable for use with condoms and sex toys. A refresher: water-based lube is safe for both, while silicone-based lubes cannot be used with sex toys, but can be used with condoms. Oil-based lubes are unforch not compatible with condoms or sex toys. Stay safe out there!
FAQs about CBD lube
Still on the fence about putting a cannabis product on your genitals? Fair enough — but in case we can soothe your curious mind, Laura Dowling, founder and chief medical scientist at fabÜ answers some of your most asked questions about CBD lube.
Is CBD lube safe?
Okay, so we know we said CBD lube hasn’t been widely tested on people, but it is A-okay to use, Dowling says. “Yes, CBD lube is generally safe for external use when manufactured by a reputable brand and used as directed,” she notes. “But as with all intimate care products, there are important safety considerations.”
Dowling recommends only buying formulas that are specifically designed for intimate use. “These should be pH-balanced, free from harsh additives, and ideally dermatologically tested,” she adds.
Meanwhile (in case you haven’t got the message yet), it’s crucial to only use lubes that are compatible with condoms if you’re adding in a latex layer to your soirée.
Can you use regular CBD oil as lube?
TL;DR: no. “Avoid applying standard CBD oil (meant for oral or general topical use) to intimate areas, as these can contain carrier oils that may cause irritation or disrupt the vaginal microbiome,” Dowling says.
Carrier oils — such as coconut oil, MCT, or hemp seed — can “cause irritation or imbalance in the vaginal flora, increase the risk of infections, and degrade latex condoms”, she adds. So CBD products specifically created for intimate use are the only thing you should be putting near your pussoir. Got that?
Meet the experts
- Laura Dowling is founder, CEO, and chief medical scientist at fabÜ. She is also author of the book Love Your Vulva: Celebrating Women’s Bodies and an advocate for women’s health.
- Liv Bentley, formerly of Made in Chelsea, and celebrity make-up artist Bella Campbell are the founders of sexual wellness brand JOMO London.
Corinne Sullivan is an Editor at Cosmopolitan, where she covers a variety of beats, including lifestyle, entertainment, relationships, shopping, and more. She can tell you everything you need to know about the love lives of A-listers, the coziest bedsheets, and the sex toys actually worth your $$$. She is also the author of the 2018 novel Indecent. Follow her on Instagram for cute pics of her pup and bébé.
Carina Hsieh, MPH, is the deputy features editor of Women’s Health. She has more than a decade’s worth of experience working in media and has covered everything from beauty, fashion, travel, lifestyle, pets, to health.
She began her career as an intern in the fashion closet at Cosmopolitan where she worked her way up to Senior Sex & Relationships Editor. While covering women’s health there, she discovered her passion for health service journalism and took a break to get her Masters in Public Health. Post-grad school, she worked as a freelance writer and as The Daily Beast’s first Beauty, Health, and Wellness Reporter.
Carina is an alum of the Fashion Institute of Technology and the Yale School of Public Health. She and her French Bulldog, Bao Bao, split their time between Brooklyn and Connecticut. She enjoys reformer Pilates, (slow) running, and smelling the fancy toiletries in boutique fitness class locker rooms.
Honey is the Senior Sex and Relationships E-commerce Writer for Cosmopolitan, Women’s Health and Men’s Health. She covers shopping guides and reviews of the best sex toys; deals events — including Amazon Prime Day and Black Friday; and sex, dating, and LGBTQ+ trends.
Her journalism career started in 2020 when she started Sextras, a podcast and digital magazine about sex and relationships. Find Sextras on Spotify or Substack, where she writes and chats about everything from positive masculinity and how to practise sex magic, to why the latest kink or porn category is blowing up.
She has an MA in Magazine Journalism from City, University of London, and previously reported for HR magazine. Her features also appear in Glamour, Refinery29, The Independent, and more.
When she's not asking everyone she meets invasive questions about their sex and dating lives, you'll find Honey singing around her flat, teaching herself a new craft, or working her way through a new '90s/'00s box set with her flatmate.
