We all know my love affair with oil-based lube, and The Butters is [fairly] new on the intimate product scene. The company is black-owned, queer, and makes everything by hand. They create purely vegan, ethical oil-based lubricants with all natural ingredients (full list here). When their products hit the sex-blogging sphere they made quite an impression, so I was very excited to give it a try! Their lubricants have a few variants, but I managed to get my hangnailed little claws on the Original version. Lucky me, as The Butters isn’t available in SA yet (boo!). I was only fortunate enough to try it due to winning a gift voucher from Vibrant, which I calibrated carefully to include shipping. Exotic things, huzzah! I’m genuinely hoping that this product finds its way over at some point, however, as it really is great for those that already enjoy using coconut oil.
First impressions? The packaging is quite similar to what you see at Lush – minimal black tubs with a lot of emphasis on the company’s cruelty-free/ethical values. I like simple packaging and a clean, pared-down aesthetic, so this was great for me. The tub was shipped all packaged-up in tissue paper and had a protective plastic outer seal to prevent leakage, but it was still a little oily on the outside anyway. Something to keep in mind when opening in case of unexpected transfer. This is a potential risk due to the alchemical blend of oils combining to prevent the product from solidifying into an impenetrable chunk at room temperature. It also means that the lube comes out the tub easily, like moisturiser would, so it’s very easy to spread without having to warm it in your hands first.
Of course, because of the lack of solidity, you won’t need to use all that much to make a difference. The first few times I tried this lube, it took three or four sessions just to use up what had transferred onto the lid during travel. So economical! The texture of this neutral-smelling, butter-coloured lube is viscous but thin, allowing it to warm quickly and spread even more just in the brief transfer period from hand to toy. It provides the same cushioned, protected sensation that I enjoy in coconut oil lubricants in a format that’s easier to apply. Win! This means it’s great for longer-lasting play or anything involving more sensitive areas. Nevertheless, the main caveat is that oil will degrade latex, so please don’t use this with regular condoms as it could lead to STI exposure or a potential pregnancy. The only other potential downside is the oily residue it leaves after use, which might not be your jam if you prefer water-based lubricants. Of course, you could just treat it the same way as you might body lotion, because it does leave you feeling very soft; but those who don’t want to risk transfer onto clothing or sheets may wish to keep a pack of wet-wipes nearby for convenience. I love the soft, moisturised feeling provided by oil-based lubricants afterwards -- like a face-mask for your vulva, as one reviewer is quoted on the website.
I’m really happy with this product and was so glad to have the chance to give it a try! As it’s not available in SA I can’t really recommend it, but think it’s a good one to keep on your radar. Coconut-based lube really works for my body and I would love for more accessible options to hit the market. The magical not-solid-at-room-temperature properties of this product is definitely something I’d like to see more of on local shelves.
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