Lube is your best friend
The friction of your hand directly on your penis for a prolonged period of time is not particularly good for you. Not to alarm you, but it can cause some minor desensitization in the penis. It can also leave some “rug burn.” Lube is important for all sex acts, from masturbation to intercourse.
I know lotion is a popular masturbation option, but lotion is not lube. It’s easy to find around the house and is convenient, but it isn’t ideal for masturbation. Your penis is a sensitive area. Some scented lotions may actually cause irritation (which is not fun).
Always opt for lube. If you have access to or are able to buy lube, go for a water-based, unscented option. Anything with “warming” components of flavoring may also cause itching or irritation.
In some cases, getting your hands on lube may be difficult. If this is the case, there are some household options that can work. You can use 100% coconut oil or 100% aloe vera as lube (this does not include sunburn lotion with aloe vera or varieties like it). Make sure what you’re using is 100% pure.
Give your balls some love
You may want to explore your body even more, and that is fantastic. Don’t ignore your balls. They are a very sensitive area, packed with nerve endings.
Try rubbing them gently with one hand while the other maintains a stroke. You can even stop stroking altogether and just pay close attention to the balls. How much pressure you put on your sack will depend on your individual preference. Try a few different options and see what works for you.
Prostate stimulation is definitely an option, too
Masturbating is not relegated solely to the penis. Your prostate is a gland just inside the anus that can feel great when stimulated. Use lube and try using your fingers or a small butt plug by inserting it into the anus. Be sure you go slowly and relax the anus before insertion.
Keep in mind that anally stimulating yourself while stroking your penis may be challenging. It might be best to focus on one or the other, at least to start.
Your prostate is a gland just inside the anus that can feel great when stimulated.
If you aren’t open to trying prostate stimulation, that’s perfectly all right. Everyone is has personal preferences when it comes to masturbation. Prostate stimulation is enjoyable for some and not for others. Whatever you like or what to try is totally up to you.
Remind yourself that masturbation is a healthy form of self-care
Hopefully you have a supportive community that values sexual health and free expression, but this isn’t the case for most people. We live in a sex-negative culture, one that puts a lot of pressure on people to act in a certain way, without providing information about the significance of sexual health in a person’s life.
Masturbation is a healthy practice and you should in no way feel ashamed for wanting to engage in it. It is a way to explore what you like, release energy, and learn about your body.