INTIMASCORE ™
DUAL SYSTEM FOR ASSESSING LUBRICANTS FROM TWO INDEPENDENT ANGLES
We analyse the INCI from a cosmetic formulation and clinical sexology perspective: microbiological and tissue safety on one hand, and real sliding persistence on the other.
How the system works
IntimaScore™ (1-100) assess the microbiological and tissue safety. Emphasis is placed on osmotic balance, support of physiological pH, and the absence of irritants.
DuraScore™ (1-100) evaluate the persistence of glide. Silicones and oils often score high on longevity; water-based ones depend on their moisturising architecture.
Important: Both grades are independent and not averaged.
IntimaScore™
- Osmotic charge: excess glycerin/glycols may increase the risk of discomfort in sensitive mucous membranes.
- pH: The presence of lactic/citric acid can support vaginal compatibility.
- Irritants: the presence of perfumes, drying alcohols, and preservatives with higher irritating potential is penalised.
- Scale: 1 to 100, where a higher score implies a better expected tolerance profile.
DuraScore™
- Stamina: Measure how long it keeps real lubrication in use.
- Silicone/Oil-Based: they tend to keep their glide for longer.
- Water-based: Variable performance depending on moisturisers, viscosity, and volatility.
- Scale: 1 to 100, where a higher score means longer-lasting glide.
IntimaScore Calculator
Paste the list of ingredients (separated by commas or one per line) and instantly calculate the IntimaScore.
Here you'll see the calculated result, along with the INCI analysis notes.
INCI Analysis Rules
- IntimaScore™ and DuraScore™ are analysed separately.
- They are not averaged or offset against each other.
- A product can be excellent in one way and discreet in another.
- The final recommendation depends on the context of use and individual sensitivity.
Cross interpretation
| Setting | Quick read | Indicative usage profile |
|---|---|---|
| High IntimaScore™ + High DuraScore™ | Good balance between endurance and duration. | General use, longer sessions or less need for reapplication |
| High IntimaScore™ + Low DuraScore™ | Smooth profile but less enduring | Sensitive folks who prioritise comfort over longevity |
| IntimaScore™ low + DuraScore™ high | Robust glide with enhanced tolerance monitoring | Occasional use with individual response tracking |
| IntimaScore™ low + DuraScore™ low | Globally limited performance | It's worth considering better-formulated alternatives |
This section is informative and does not replace individual clinical assessment. In cases of recurrent irritation, pain or dysbiosis, consult with gynaecology or clinical sexology.
Lubricants with the best intimate safety profile
A selection of products with the highest scores on IntimaScore™. The score is visible on each card and each product links directly to its detailed page.
EXTREME DILATING LUBRICANT Silicone Lubricant with a Relaxing Effect, Neutral Scent
PJUR WOMAN BIOGLIDE Silicone base for women’s delicate and sensitive skin
PJUR ORIGINAL Silicone-Based Intimate Gel, Perfect for Fun in the Water
PJUR ANALYSE ME Soothing Jojoba Anesthetic Lubricant
PJUR BACK DOOR Silicone Anal Lubricant with Long-Lasting Relaxing Effect
TAKE A WALK Water-based lubricant that's perfect for your toys, safe with condoms, and gentle on the s
BODY LUBE Water-based lubricant that's condom-friendly
PJUR ANALYSE ME (WATER) The best-selling water-based anal lubricant
Long-lasting glide lubricants
These products stand out on DuraScore™ for their staying power. The card clearly shows the score, and clicking takes you to the full product description.
PJUR ANALYSE ME Soothing Jojoba Anesthetic Lubricant
EXTREME DILATING LUBRICANT Silicone Lubricant with a Relaxing Effect, Neutral Scent
PJUR BACK DOOR Silicone Anal Lubricant with Long-Lasting Relaxing Effect
PJUR ORIGINAL Silicone-Based Intimate Gel, Perfect for Fun in the Water
PJUR POWER PREMIUM Hybrid cream lubricant, long-lasting for intense anal play
S8 CANNABIS Silky CBD Hybrid Lubricant, easy-clean, safe
SHUNGA DRAGON Orgasm Intensifying Cream with Natural Extracts
STRAWBERRIES POCKET Pocket-sized strawberry delight lubricant
Leaderboard
| Rating | Classification | Colour |
|---|---|---|
| 100 | Unbeatable | #1b7f3a |
| >= 90 | Excellent | #1b7f3a |
| >= 75 | Okay | #7cb342 |
| >= 60 | Acceptable | #f9a825 |
| < 60 | Questionable | #d32f2f |
Main active ingredients
Here's a list of the main ingredients used in lubricants and their scoring system interpretation.
| (Common) Ingredient | INCI | Type | Benefits | Possible drawbacks / notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Water | Aqua / Water | Base | Neutral vehicle, condom compatible, lightweight sensation. | It evaporates; may require reapplication if no moisturisers/thickeners are present. |
| Glycerine | Glycerin | Osmotic lubricant | Boost glide and longevity with water-based formula. | It may increase osmolality (higher risk of irritation/dehydration in sensitive mucous membranes), especially if it ranks high in the INCI. |
| Propylene glycol | Propylene Glycol | Osmotic lubricant | Enhances glide and stability of the formula. | More prone to irritation in sensitive areas; contributes to high osmolality if it's top INCI. |
| Dipropylene glycol | Dipropylene Glycol | Osmotic lubricant | Helps with solubility and gives a slipperier feel. | It can increase osmolality; penalised if it appears high in INCI. |
| Butylene glycol | Butylene Glycol | Osmotic lubricant | Enhance glide and feel. | Contributes to osmolality; possible mild irritation in very sensitive individuals. |
| Pentylene glycol | Pentylene Glycol | Osmotic lubricant | Moisturiser; helps with preservation as a booster. | It may raise osmolality; not ideal high in INCI. |
| Sorbitol | Sorbitol | Osmotic lubricant | Increase lubrication and water retention. | Risk of high osmolality if combined with other osmotics. |
| Xylitol | Xylitol | Osmotic lubricant | Moisturiser; sometimes used for a gentle touch. | It may increase osmolality; not a guarantee of intimate tolerance. |
| Erythritol | Erythritol | Osmotic lubricant | Moisturising, silky sensation. | Contributes to osmolality (depends on the set of osmotics). |
| Sodium PCA | Sodium PCA | Osmotic lubricant | Effective moisturiser (natural moisturising factor). | It can increase osmolality if several osmotics are combined. |
| Maltose | Maltose | Osmotic lubricant | Moisturiser; adds body to the formula. | Osmotic sugar; may cause imbalances in predisposed individuals if there is irritation/microlesions. |
| Hydroxyethylcellulose | Hydroxyethylcellulose | Thickener | Increases viscosity, enhances the body and sensation of duration. | Generally neutral; too much can feel sticky. |
| Carbomer | Carbomer | Thickener | Stable gel, nice texture. | Neutral overall; depends on the final pH and neutralisers. |
| Xanthan gum | Xanthan Gum | Thickener | Enhance viscosity, natural feel. | Neutral; it can become sticky if it gets too high. |
| Guar gum | Guar Gum | Thickener | Smooth thickener, pleasant texture. | Generally neutral. |
| Cationic guar | Hydroxypropyl Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride | Thickener / conditioner | Enhances glide and feel (lasting sensation). | Generally neutral; can provide persistently slippery feel. |
| Cellulose | Cellulose | Thickener | Texture, stability. | Neutral. |
| Polyacrylamide | Polyacrylamide | Thickener | Silky texture, stability. | Controversy over potential traces; penalizable according to security policy. |
| Starch | Starch / Potato Starch | Thickener | Texture and absorption. | May encourage yeast growth under certain conditions; not ideal for sensitive intimate use. |
| Lactic acid | Lactic Acid | pH balancer | Intimate pH-balanced formula (especially vaginal). | Presence doesn't guarantee correct pH; it depends on the final pH and concentration. |
| Citric acid | Citric Acid | pH balancer | pH balance/stability indicator. | Does not guarantee intimate pH; it may only be a technical corrector. |
| Sodium hydroxide | Sodium Hydroxide | pH balancer | Neutralises/adjusts pH in traces. | If it's poorly formulated, it could cause irritation, but it usually comes in very small amounts. |
| Sodium citrate | Sodium Citrate | pH balancer | pH buffer, improves stability. | Impact depends on the whole set; no guarantee of optimal pH. |
| Sodium benzoate | Sodium Benzoate | Preservative | Effective conservation (relatively modern profile). | It might irritate sensitive areas; sometimes linked to more acidic formulas. |
| Potassium sorbate | Potassium Sorbate | Preservative | Paraben-free alternative. | It may cause irritation if pH and proportions are not optimal. |
| Phenoxyethanol | Phenoxyethanol | Preservative | Widely used; effective in low doses. | It may irritate sensitive mucosa; penalized if high in INCI. |
| EDTA | Tetrasodium EDTA | Chelating / preservative support | Enhances preservative efficacy, stability. | Eco controversy; slight irritant potential for those sensitive. |
| Levulinic acid | Levulinic Acid | Preservative | Softer alternative with a more modern twist. | It may mildly irritate sensitive areas. |
| Sodium levulinate | Sodium Levulinate | Preservative | Generally smooth/modern profile. | Low risk; depends on final pH. |
| Ethylhexylglycerin | Ethylhexylglycerin | Co-preservative | Enhances preservatives; can improve touch. | It might slightly increase osmolality and cause irritation in sensitive individuals. |
| Polysorbate 80 | Polysorbate 80 | Surfactant / emulsifier | Allows mixing phases, stability. | May increase permeability/irritation in sensitive mucosa; caution advised. |
| Parabens | Methylparaben / Propylparaben | Preservative | Effective and stable preservation. | Current preference for alternatives; penalty due to security policy. |
| Formaldehyde releasers | Imidazolidinyl Urea / DMDM Hydantoin | Preservative | Powerful preservation. | High irritation profile; strong penalty. |
| Chlorhexidine | Chlorhexidine | Preservative / bactericide | Antimicrobial action. | It can alter microbiome and cause irritation; very high penalty for regular intimate use. |
| Scent / Fragrance | Aroma / Parfum | Scent | Enhance your scent experience. | Common allergen/irritant for those sensitive; notable, especially high in INCI. |
| Sodium saccharin | Sodium Saccharin | Sweetener | Flavour in oral lubricants. | No additive needed for standard lubrication; might be punitive on sensitive intimate areas. |
| Aloe vera | Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice / Powder | Botanical active | Calming signal; enhances perception of softness. | The powder extract usually offers less; it doesn't balance out a very osmotic base. |
| Chamomile | Chamomilla Recutita Extract | Botanical active | Soothing sensation on sensitive skin. | It doesn't fix strong irritants if they're high up in the INCI. |
| Calendula | Calendula Officinalis Extract | Botanical active | Calming signal/barrier support. | Effect depends on actual concentration. |
| Hyaluronic Acid | Sodium Hyaluronate | Botanical active | High-value hydration (non-osmotic in scoring practice). | It doesn't replace lubrication if the base is too dry; it depends on the formulation. |
| Denatured alcohol | Alcohol Denat. | Another | Quick-drying sensation; solvent. | Desiccant and irritant for mucous membranes; high penalty. |
| Menthol | Menthol | Another | Cold/tingle sensation. | Frequent irritation/burning; penalizable. |
| Capsaicin | Capsaicin | Another | Intense warming effect. | High risk of mucosal irritation; severe penalty. |
| Silicones (base) | Dimethicone / Cyclopentasiloxane / Dimethiconol | Base | High duration, very good slip, doesn't dry out like water. | Variable compatibility with silicone toys (depending on product); more enveloping sensation. |
| Mineral oil | Paraffinum Liquidum | Base | Very long-lasting, it doesn't dry out. | Not compatible with latex condoms; heavy/occlusive sensation. |
