Archive | July, 2011

Review: Lelo Personal Moisturizer

Until a couple of years ago I had one brand of lubricant that I swore by. No matter how much someone tried to convince otherwise, it was the only thing I would use. Maybe it was because it lasted longer than many others. Maybe it was because it came in wide variety of types, making the options seem endless. Maybe it was because it came in fantastic, non chemical tasting flavors. Maybe it was because it came professionally and respectfully packaged. Or maybe it was simply because I was tired of using lesser quality brands, all of which were pumped full of glycerin and chemicals that left me with either a yeast infection or feeling dry and sore after use (TMI?). Whatever the reason, it set the standard for every lube to follow and I’ve rarely, if ever, questioned my loyalty and stubbornness.

Times have certainly changed and people have become increasingly aware of what they’re not only putting on their bodies, but also in them. It’s partly this customer awareness that has brought a rise in standards and forced companies to either increase the quality of current products, or create brand new lines in order to meet the demand. As such, there are quite a few companies that have begun to offer quality lubricants that are either on par or, dare I say, better than my most trusted brand.

For today’s review I’m going to be covering one such lube by a company I absolutely love – the paraben and glycerin free Personal Moisturizer made by the folks at Lelo. While it may not be better than my fave brand, it’s definitely on par with it, especially when it comes to longevity, affordability and quality.

Packaging

As with all of the products Lelo makes the packaging is sleek, sophisticated, respectful and very high end. The black rectangular box has nothing on it that’s rude, tacky or inappropriate, instead using carefully chosen wording like “comfort of intimate activities”, “sensual experience” and “your intimate areas”. If only more companies would follow suit and adopt such a discreet and non embarrassing choice of wording*.

One side of the packaging features an image of the lubricant container and a small paragraph beneath it that outlines the benefits and features, with the other side showing nothing but the company’s website written in metallic silver print. The back of the box has the directions, ingredients and warnings all written in 5 different languages (English, French, Dutch, Spanish and Italian).

Regardless of the care taken in creating the box, keep in mind that it’s just something you’ll likely toss into the recycling container.

*having said that I don’t mean to imply that sex, sexuality or the use of intimate accessories is something to be embarrassed about. Instead, that the use of tacky, silly, sexist or rude choices in wording, images and slogans is a large part of what has caused this environment of shame, guilt and embarrassment. Maybe if more companies were mature in their approach and treated sexuality like it isn’t some silly joke in the same way that Lelo, Sliquid, System Jo, Tantus and We-Vibe (to name a handful) do, it’s likely there wouldn’t be such an issue with sexual wellness products to begin with. (talk about a ranting pet peeve moment!)

The Goods

Each shiny black tube contains 75 ml of the clear water based liquid that glides on smooth, mixing with the bodies natural lubrication very well. Because it’s glycerine free it lasts for quite some time and maintains it’s slippery feel, becoming neither sticky nor tacky with extended use. On that note, the consistency is gel like and somewhat thick so a little goes a very long way. While it is very slick it’s not greasy, oily, slimy or goopy (like many other lesser quality lubes), it doesn’t burn, sting or itch and absorbs into the skin leaving you feeling soft and supple, rather than coated in product.

*that last bit is for all of you that have sex and pass out, not bothering to clean up after the fun is over, only to wake up and feel a mess. Don’t blush, we’ve all been there.

For the most part it’s unscented, though it does have a slight dish soap smell that’s a mixture of white Elmer’s glue and lemons. Maybe my nose is busted, but that’s the scent I get. By no means is it highly chemical, sour, obnoxious or over powering. It’s just a light whiff, that’s it.

Whether it’s metal, glass, wood, a high quality silicone or any other type of material this lube is compatible with all types of intimate accessories, so feel free to use it with your favorite products.

Benefits: glycerine free, paraben free, hypoallergenic, non-staining, non-greasy

Ingredients: water, propelene glycol, hydroxyethylcellulose, aloe barbadenis leaf juice, sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate, tetrasodium edta, guarana extract, ginsing extract, avena sativa extract, polysorbate-20, aspartame, polyquaternium-5, PEG-45 M, citric acid.

The Bad

With the exception of one issue there really wasn’t anything I disliked about the product. As for the issue – there is no way to say this nicely so I’m just going to say it – it tastes horrible!! If you’re thinking of having oral sex or using dental dams I highly suggest you invest in a small bottle or packet size of a good flavored lube. Trust me on this one. It’s bad, really bad.

Final Verdict

If you’ve been on the hunt for a good water based lube, one that maintains its consistency, mixes well with the bodies natural fluids, is latex compatible, doesn’t get sticky or tacky and feels slippery smooth, all while being free of both glycerin and parabens, Lelo’s Personal Moisturizer (a.k.a Lube) is definitely a decent option worth trying.

Whether you’re looking for a fantastic lube, high end luxury vibrator, affordable intimate accessory to help you learn about your body, something to share with a partner or a kinky gift, make sure to check out my official online shop where prices are competitive and your privacy is of utmost importance!

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Review: Le Reve Vibe

G-Spot, Product Reviews, Vibes

While on a hunt for affordable, body safe, powerful, quiet and easy to use g-spot products I cam across Pipedreams Le Reve Vibe and quickly requested it from the generous folks at SexToy.com. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect as my experiences with some previous Pipedreams products have left much to be desired, however considering all the benefits and features it seemed to offer I just couldn’t help but satisfy my curiosity. Fortunately I was quite pleasantly surprise, with the product far exceeding my expectations.

Packaging

The Le Reve comes packaged in a rectangular black box with white and red writing that sports the name and image of the product on all four sides. The back has a brief write up that includes wording like “g-spot stimulation”, “direct clitoral stimulation” and “nipple or breast play” which may cause you to want to hide it as soon as it arrives. If direct wording like this causes you to blush just remember, it’s a box that can be easily thrown out.

The Goods

The product measures 7″ – 8″ overall with 6″ of that being insertable (it’s hard to measure due total length to the curve). The rounded tip, which makes insertion both comfortable and easy, starts out just over 1″ in diameter and gently widens to a bit over 1-1/2″ at the widest point. The material is a hard non porous ABS plastic that’s exceptionally smooth and very shiny but has absolutely no squish, give or flexibility. If you’re looking for something firm, without wanting to buy glass, metal or any other hard material, a product made out of ABS plastic like this one is definitely a good option.

Because the material is so firm applying pressure to the g-spot is relatively easy and keeping the pressure applied with the rounded tip is surprisingly comfortable. Whether you use it to steadily press against the area, as something to gently thrust or use in a rocking motion is totally up to you. Keep in mind that with a product like this all the options are possible and do a pretty good job or stimulating the area, you just may have to do a little work to find an angle and method that works for you and your body.

If g-spot stimulation doesn’t really work (or if you’ve had a hard time finding yours and just want to give up and enjoy the moment) the curved design is great for easily targeting the clitoris, labia or entire vulva without having to worry about a possible arm or hand cramp. Not getting enough foreplay from your partner? No worries, you can easily use the product to run over both bodies with ease, taunting and teasing in the process. The only thing I’d advise against is anal play as there is no base on it to keep it from ‘getting lost’.

When it comes to operating the product there’s only two buttons to worry about, both of which are located on the flattened base making adjusting the speeds relatively easy. The + (plus) button allows you to turn it on and run through the 5 different speeds, the – (minus) button goes back down through the speeds and finally turns the product off. Pretty simple if you ask me.

The vibrations speeds begin at a low deep rumble that carry the entire length of the product with each one after that becoming both stronger and more intense. It’s not Hitachi Magic Wand strong, but not everything is supposed to be. If you’re sensitive or require low frequency vibrations it may be too strong for you. On the other hand, if you lean more toward a rumbling vibration, one that penetrates deeply when inserted this just might be the one for you.

Fortunately this is one of the quieter vibes I’ve had the pleasure of trying, being something I’m sure you could use without arousing the suspicion of roommates or anyone in the next room, especially when it’s muffled under the sheets.

Care and Cleaning

Keeping the product in good shape is relatively easy, just make sure to wash it well with soap and water or use an antibacterial toy cleaner. As for lubes, you could use anything your heart desires though I’d personally only suggest a water based lube as a silicone or oil based one can sometimes be hard to clean up.

Changing the batteries is very simple, just twist the bottom cap, slide out the battery case, pop 2 AAA batteries in place, slide it back in and twist on the cap.

The Bad

Although I did like the product quite a bit there were some issues I did have with it;

1.) Because it’s made of a sleek hard plastic maintaining a hold on it can be rather difficult, especially when being used by someone with lubed hands. It puts a whole new meaning on the words slip n’ slide.

2.) If you’re someone that enjoys heavy thrusting the hard plastic and curve may make it rather difficult, if not to mention at times slightly painful. No squish or ‘give’ often equals a bruised cervix if you’re too rough.

3.) It requires batteries. For some of you that may not be that big of a deal, but considering that they can corrode and kill your toy, require replacement which costs more money and can sometimes die when you’re on your way from A – O I tend to avoid battery operated products. Call me spoiled, I don’t care.

Final Verdict

When I first spotted the Le Reve Vibe I really didn’t know what to expect, and judging by my previous experiences with Pipedreams products I figured it would be either a hit or miss situation. Fortunately for me it was pleasantly surprising and quickly became a product I’d highly suggest for those of you on a budget that still want to get your hands on something worthwhile.

That said, if you’re looking for a multi purpose vibe that also has multiple speeds, is quiet, ergonomically shaped, surprisingly powerful, easy to use, comfortable and waterproof the Le Reve Vibe shouldn’t be overlooked.

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Review: Voila

Clitoral Stimulation, Product Reviews, Vibes

I’ve always been on the fence when it came to products made by one of the major manufacturers of intimate accessories, California Exotics. On the one hand they’ve created great ones like the entire line of Couture Collection and Petite Couture Collection vibrators, silicone L’amour and the Xtreme Packs – all of which I’m a huge fan of. On the other hand they’ve also created unappetizing products like Kaylani’s Futurotic Doggie Masturbator, cheap and dangerous Acrylite Beads, Teagan’s Jelly Bendies Ripple made out of horrible jelly material and the painful Wireless Extended Ring Matador – things I wouldn’t suggest, personally use or go near for fear they may leave the user sore, raw or just simply fall apart. Aside from that the vast majority of products the company used to make (and possibly still does) are made of unsafe jelly material, not to mention being packaged in some of the cheapest and tackiest boxes/displays I’ve come across.

Having said that you can imagine my surprise when I realized that the cute and discreet Voila, a product I had been eyeing on Eden Fantasys for ages, was made by the folks at California Exotics. Quite honestly I wasn’t sure to expect, but in this line of work you sometimes have to gamble on a company and hope for the best. Considering the many benefits and features it had to offer, I’m rather glad that I did.

*big thanks to the folks at Eden Fantasys for sending it my way!!

Packaging

Unlike many other California Exotics products the packaging is simple, discreet, respectful and professional. There’s no half naked man or woman sprawled across the front of the rectangular box, no tacky writing or suggestive themes; just the name, benefits and features and an image of the product. That’s it that all.

*I seriously hope the folks at the company keep this type of packaging in mind for future products.

The Goods

Out of the box the pretty pink triangular Voila was much smaller than I expected coming in at only 3″ inches in length by 1 1/4″ inches in width. It’s this small size that allowed it to not only fit very comfortably in my hand, but also travel nicely as well. Having said that, it’s not at all intimidating or overwhelming and would be great for those who are new to intimate accessories and wanting to explore. It’s also very discreet in design and not something I think the majority of people would assume was used for pleasure filled activities.

Another great feature for those that are inexperienced is the ease of use it has to offer; to operate the product there are only 2 buttons – one to turn it on and run through the settings and another to turn it off (a great feature for those of you that share a dorm room, bedroom or still live at home and are terrified of getting ‘caught’). To turn it on simply press the clear ‘F’ button, to run through the range of settings press it again for each setting you’d like to experience. To turn it off simply hit the off button.

Regarding materials it’s crafted out of phthalate and latex free ABS plastic and has a PU Cote making it soft and velvety to the touch (if you hate products that collect lint you’ll love this). There is a slight drag on the skin but it isn’t anything a little lube couldn’t fix.

When it comes to using the product I’d suggest it for either clitoral stimulation, foreplay (you could trace it across your partner’s body or erogenous zones) or a light massage. Just keep in mind it’s not Hitachi Magic Wand strong so if you’re looking for a heavy massage that’s deep and penetrating this probably won’t be what you’re looking for.

On that note, the vibrations of the Voila are more of a surface area high pitched vibe rather than a deep rumble. Even when used on the highest steady vibration or any of the 4 different patterns (making 7 settings in total), the results are the same; they’re steady but strong and will likely go a long way for those that are very sensitive to any form of vibration. Even as a person that enjoys the Hitachi Magic Wand or products within the Fairy line I was impressed.

Care and Cleaning

Because it’s an ABS product with PU cote cleaning can be done by using an antibacterial soap, giving it a good wash and rinsing it very well. As for lubes, I think you can use pretty much anything your heart desires, though I’d personally suggest a water based lube as a silicone or oil may be harder to clean off.

When it comes to powering the product you don’t have to worry about batteries as it’s rechargeable via a removable cord. Fortunately the folks at California Exotics thought ahead and designed the product with a clear plastic seal for the charger, allowing it to be completely waterproof.

The Bad

When it came to things I didn’t like there really wasn’t much to find, even when nit picking. For the most part it’s pretty badass, with a lack of oomph being it’s only drawback. Then again, not everyone likes a strong vibration.

Final Verdict

If you’re someone who is sensitive and finds that most products are either far too strong or not strong enough you might want to take a chance on the Voila, a fantastic clitoral stimulator and foreplay accessory with vibrations that sit somewhere in the middle.

Not only will you likely find yourself rather impressed with the vibrations, but you’ll probably also be pleasantly surprised with the ease of use it has to offer. If that wasn’t enough it’s also light weight, rechargeable, has 7 different functions, is damn near silent, water proof, travels well and has a much desired instant off button.

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Review: Babeland Natural BabeLube

Babeland, Lubes, Product Reviews

Having recently tried 5 of the lubes made by the folks at Sliquid (and liking the majority of them – read the review), along with 2 of the 4 flavored Babelicious lubes and 1 of the 8 all natural Body Massage Candles made by Babeland, I just couldn’t say no when Babeland asked if I’d like to try the ‘Natural BabeLube’ they had Sliquid craft for them. Fortunately the product lived up to my expectations for both companies, leaving me thoroughly impressed.

Packaging

Just like all of the products made by/for Babeland the packaging is respectful, professional and gender neutral with nothing on it that’s rude, inappropriate or possibly tacky, nor is there anything that could cause embarrassment (not that you should be anyways). All you’ll find is a list of ingredients and the benefits and features the product has to offer.

As for the container, it’s a 4.2oz simple dark blue recyclable plastic bottle with a black cap and light blue wrap around label that sports the same + (plus) and – (minus) design you’ll find on most other Bableland products. It’s sweet and simple, something more products should aim to be.

The Goods

When it comes to things I look for in a quality lube my expectations aren’t that high. In fact, I think I look for the exact same things anyone would if they knew what sets the good apart from the bad. Of course the main challenge is knowing what to look for.

In my opinion a good lube must do the following; stay slippery during use without getting sticky, tacky, goopey or grainy, require little to no reapplication, have a limited amount of harsh chemicals as ingredients, have little to no taste or smell (unless it’s flavored or scented of course), either have a low consistency of glycerin or none at all, leave my skin feeling clean after bathing (rather than still coated in product), and be affordable for the amount I’m getting.

While many of you may think those are reasonably easy things to find, with all the shady companies you’d be rather surprised how challenging it can be. Fortunately this job gives me the opportunity to be in contact with some of the best manufacturers and retailers around, ones that often offer me the best of the best when it comes to lubes and many other intimate accessories. Fortunately for you, I like to write about them! 😉

Having said all of that, the Natural Babelube had everything I was looking for and then some: it’s all natural and contains mostly certified organic botanicals, vegan and cruelty free, water based and water soluble, along with being glycerin, paraben and petroleum free. Wanna use it with condoms, dental dams or intimate accessories? No problem – it’s latex, rubber and plastic friendly too.

As for the lube, it’s a clear thick gel like consistency that spreads nicely while also mixing with a woman’s natural lubricant very well. Like the other Sliquid lubes I previously tried I found it maintained its consistency but required reapplying once, not something I blame the lube for but instead an incompatibility with the lubricant on the condoms we were using (Kimono to be exact – I’ve had the same issues with them and other lubes in the past).

On that note, the lube didn’t burn, sting or make me itch during or after use, nor did it irritate my skin or cause an infection – something I’ve had issues with when it came to lesser quality lubes that were filled with glycerin. What can I say, I’m a girl that tends to learn the hard way.

There’s fortunately also no harsh taste or aftertaste and what you can taste is just a tad salty, being neither too heavy nor offensive. As for the smell, it’s light and has a slight dish soap scent that’s not at all overwhelming.

*Since we had some condom compatibility issues I applied it to the back of my hand and spread it around, quickly finding it thicken up, turn a thin white pasty color and disappear as if nothing was there to begin with. Surprisingly my skin wasn’t left feeling sticky or tacky, instead it was softer and smoother than before. (keep in mind there was no natural bodily fluids to mix with it and help it maintain – hands don’t self lubricate after all).

Ingredients: purified water, plant cellulose (from cotton), aloe barbadensis, natural tocopherols (vitamin E), carrageenan, extracts of hibiscux, flax, green tea and sunflower seed, citric acid (citrus fruits), potassium sorbate. *all certified organic

The Bad

When it came to things I didn’t like about the product I didn’t really have anything to complain about, even when trying to nit pick. Sure it didn’t last on my hand very long without reapplying (which might make hand jobs a little tough), and I wouldn’t really suggest it for butt play, but for the most part it was a great lube that I’d definitely use on a regular basis.

Final Verdict

If you’re looking for a lube that’s all natural, glycerin free and has no harsh chemicals, while also leaving you feeling soft, supple and moisturized, that also doesn’t have a heavy taste or smell and comes respectfully packaged – not to mention being totally affordable for both the amount you’re getting and level of quality offered, I’d highly suggest trying Babelands Natural Babelube, it’s definitely worth the under priced $12.00.

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