When most people think about sex toys, they most likely imagine vibrators, cock rings, nipple stimulators and other commonplace products. It’s frequently assumed that there is no one that would consider investing in a sex doll; after all, they’re most often only seen in wacky, eccentric documentaries… they’re not actually something people buy, right?
Wrong! Sex dolls are soaring in popularity and they’re looking more lifelike than ever before.
When it comes to these unique toys, I’ve seen and heard it all — from people who want to enjoy a girlfriend-like experience to those with very specific kinks. Sex dolls are catering to a range of sexual fantasies as they redefine the adult industry.
Sex dolls are becoming a sex toy of choice for men and women from all around the world, and it’s time we understand why they’re so popular. To share a peek into this mysterious world, I am inviting you to find out more about how sex dolls are made and how that contributes to what they’re used for.
Firstly, the process of creating a sex doll is not simple; they’re incredibly lifelike and some manufacturers even customize them individually according to their customers’ desires. As such, they take longer to create than mass-produced dolls made in a factory and are truly works of art.
Realistic sex dolls are usually built on a metal skeleton and TPE (thermoplastic elastomer). The TPE material makes dolls feel smooth and more lifelike. Typically, people who choose to invest in a sex doll do so because they want to enjoy an intimate, realistic experience; providing them with a product that provides less than that won’t satisfy their needs. However, the importance of a lifelike doll extends far beyond a skin-like touch. Using TPE also makes dolls more flexible, meaning users can try any sex position they like and the dolls move in an incredibly lifelike way. When the dolls move back and forth, their breasts and bums move as they would in reality. It’s this detail that sets sex dolls apart from traditional sex toys; they don’t just feel like a toy, they really do feel like a companion in bed.
The process by which sex dolls are made begins with designers sketching out a design based on a client’s requests. It’s presented to the customer along with a few predesigned heads, which can be placed on bodies of varying heights, weights and measurements. Once the design has been completed, a metal skeleton is then placed into the correct mold.
When the mold has set, the doll is brought to life. Some features are added individually, including breasts, nipples, vaginas and pubic hair. Nowadays, customers may be able to find hundreds of options available. Once the features have been added, the doll is ready.
Are realistic sex dolls safe? Fortunately, TPE sex dolls are completely hypoallergenic. This means users can relax; they don’t have to use protection if they don’t want to and needn’t be concerned about sensitive skin.
Throughout 2020 and 2021, sex doll sales have boomed. COVID-19 has left us isolated in our homes and many are subsequently feeling very lonely. We’ve seen a staggering number of customers embrace sex dolls as a source of intimacy, connection, fun and sexual exploration. Coronavirus has entirely redefined the ways in which we interact, date and, yes, have sex! For lots of people, sex dolls have been an ideal solution. It’s also important to note that sex dolls haven’t only been endorsed by singles who want to enjoy some great sex during lockdown; couples have been buying them too, to spice up their bedroom activity.
When it comes to how customers use their dolls behind closed doors, nothing is off-limits. That’s why people love sex dolls so much — they allow you to explore any fantasy you wish within the privacy of your home. Some men haven’t had sex for years for whatever reason, some women want to explore their sexuality with a female doll and some want to practice their obscure fetishes (everything from BDSM to body-fluid fetishes) without fear of judgement. Basically, if there’s a kink out there, you can try it (and someone probably has) with a sex doll.
Within the adult industry, 2020 and 2021 have been the years of sex dolls. People are becoming more open-minded and accepting than ever before; our attitudes are shifting and as a collective community the world isn’t as judgemental as it has been in years gone by, especially when it comes to sexuality. Of course, we still have a long way to go — but if the popularity of sex dolls shows us anything, it’s that we’re fascinated with exploring new, unusual, exciting sexual avenues.
JFK Løvlien, is creative partner at Stuffgoodies, an online retailer of adult products.
