Yes—start with cleaning, then use only a tiny amount of lubricant if needed.

First, clean the seam/threads with isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab. It evaporates cleanly and may remove grime causing the stiffness. Also check whether the filter is bent or out of round, since that can make the ring bind.

If cleaning doesn’t help, some users report success with a minute amount of lubricant applied to the seam between the rotating parts. Suitable options mentioned were silicone grease, lithium grease, sewing machine oil, or a very small drop of light oil. Use far less than you think you need, rotate the ring repeatedly to distribute it, and wipe away any excess immediately.

Important: keep lubricant away from the glass and especially out from between the optical elements. Over-applying is the main risk.

So: clean first, inspect for damage, then use the smallest possible amount of lubricant only if necessary.