I have a few shocks,..different types, front, rear, etc.
Over the years it's become clear to me that oiling up stantions is a bad idea.
Keeping them clean is imperative.
If you do lube the stantions make sure you wipe them as dry as possible before riding again.
It's more about "CLEAN" than about "LUBED".
Also, make sure there are NO nicks, scratches, etc. The slightest imperfection in the surface of a stantion can be the worst thing for seals (other than oily dirt).
So I've had my bike for some time now (6-7 years) and I just read the manuals for them.
6-7 years is a long time , especially if you ride alot.
If your shocks are older than a couple of seasons, it's best to have them totally overhauled by an expert. Hopefully your LBS can satisfy that criteria. Otherwise, there are some independent companies out there that really know how to service shocks.
JM2C