opinion

Electrostimulation Tips to Normalize Exploration, Boost Product Sales

Electrostimulation Tips to Normalize Exploration, Boost Product Sales

Electrostimulation has come a long way in the BDSM world, yet it’s still often considered a taboo kink that only sadists and masochists can enjoy. That’s because most shoppers — and likely retail staff, too — are simply unfamiliar with its pleasure powers.

Today’s adult market boasts an impressive array of accessible, easy-to-use electrostimulation products that feel more like high-end sex toys than scary shock devices — though if scary shock devices are your thing, we’ve got those, too! Today we’re going to look at electrostimulation: what it is, how it feels, how to do it safely, how many options are available and how you can help customers find the e-stim styles that work for them.

Today’s adult market boasts an impressive array of accessible, easy-to-use electrostimulation products that feel more like high-end sex toys than scary shock devices.

What is electrostimulation?

Electrostimulation, aka “e-stim,” is the application of electrical stimuli to the body. It can be done using different power sources, including TENS units and violet wands, but there is also a range of sex toys that are equipped with e-stim capabilities with no wires or attachments required.

What does electrostimulation feel like?

When you hear “electrostimulation,” it’s common to associate the word with something unpleasant, like electrocution or even electroshock therapy, but the sensation of electrostimulation as a pleasure tool is far more subtle and nuanced. People describe it in many different ways: throbbing, prickling, buzzing, rhythmic suckling, the list goes on. Some have even described the feeling as reminiscent of a vibrator. Just like with other bodily sensations, the way e-stim feels is subjective and inevitably different for everyone.

One of the cool elements of electrostimulation technology is that it allows users to access deep tissue and nerve clusters that regular vibrators can’t reach. Additionally, most e-stim toys can be set to a slower pulsing beat or a constant buzz, which can’t be replicated using a vibrating or rumbling motor.

When it comes to intensity, that is up to the user. Keeping an electrostimulation toy on a lower setting can provide an experience that is both painless and deeply erotic. On the other hand, cranking the power up can deliver stimulation that is significantly more intense, possibly painful, and may feature sensations ranging from a biting pinch to a sharp tingle to intense muscle spasms.

E-stim safety tips

Because we’re literally playing with electric pulses, there are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind for keeping e-stim play safe:

Do’s:

  • Remove all jewelry before electrostimulation play.
  • Make sure the power is off before applying an e-stim TENS pad to the body.
  • Use a water-based lube with internal toys or electroconductive gel with external toys to protect skin and increase sensitivity.

Don’t use an e-stim device:

  • If you have a pacemaker or a history of cardiac issues.
  • During pregnancy.
  • Above the waist.
  • On broken or irritated skin.

What kinds of e-stim toys are available?

The exciting news is that these days, no matter what type of toy or stimulation your shoppers prefer, there’s probably an electrostimulation option you can recommend.

Lots of folks love big, powerful wand massagers or remote-controlled panty vibes; these perennially popular devices are also available with e-stim options, enabling couples to add a little zapping sensation to their play. Likewise, thanks to items like e-stim plugs, prostate play enthusiasts can easily enjoy the benefits of adding electricity to their exploration.

Electrostimulation toys can make the anus or vagina involuntarily contract and release as they do during orgasm, which many users find quite enjoyable. With the wide range of e-stim products available, it’s easy to experiment with those sensations, alone or with a partner. Those looking to explore penis stimulation can try out an e-stim cock ring, or get a bit fancy with more elaborate setups that allow for simultaneous penis and prostate stimulation.

The more you know

The popularity of modern sex toys means that a lot of your shoppers will likely come into your store knowing a thing or two about vibrators or lube. But when it comes to electrostimulation, you and your staff will need to be their guides. This is why it is imperative that store employees are familiar with and comfortable discussing e-stim products. If they need some training or support, they can always watch education and demo videos, take advantage of trainings offered by traveling sales reps, and/or seek specialized instruction from sexuality and BDSM educators who visit your location to teach classes.

While electrosex may be misunderstood and seen as a daunting endeavor, the wide array of fully packaged and merchandised e-stim products provides the opportunity to show shoppers and staff members that modern electrostimulation can be accessible even to the newest of players.

The more comfortable you and your staff are with e-stim technology, the better equipped you will be to dispel false assumptions about electric play and increase sales in this growing category. Demonstrating that electrosex can be for everyone and anyone who is interested translates to more erotic pleasure for consumers, and higher profits for you.

Rebecca Weinberg is an award-winning industry leader with more than 20 years of experience in the adult industry. She is the president of multi-award-winning pleasure product manufacturer XR Brands.

Related:  

Copyright © 2025 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More Articles

opinion

How Adult Retailers Can Enhance Sales With Supplements

The supplement industry is big business. In 2024, Future Market Insights estimated it to be valued at $74.3 billion, and other market research firms anticipate that number will grow to upwards of $170 billion in just 10 years.

Rick Magana ·
opinion

Why It's Time the Pleasure Industry Got Serious About IPX Waterproof Ratings

As someone who regularly communicates with manufacturers, retailers and consumers, I’ve seen how this ambiguity can do a disservice to both the customers who use these products and the businesses that sell them.

Alicia Sinclair Rosen ·
opinion

Tips for Sexual Wellness Brands to Win Over Gen Z This Summer

As summer rolls around, the excitement in the air is palpable, especially for one particular demographic: Gen Z. College and university classes are over, vacations are booked and it’s time to let loose.

Naima Karp ·
opinion

Celebrating the LGBTQ+ Community With Inclusive Packaging Design

Pride Month is a time of visibility, joy and self-expression. In the pleasure industry, projecting that energy can start with something as simple as a box. Market research shows that 72% of U.S. consumers say product packaging influences their purchasing decisions.

Matthew Spindler ·
profile

WIA Profile: Pettus Ashley

Pettus Ashley brings her A game to the world of authentic adult branding, flitting between airports as the American face of U.K. brand Bathmate. As a company brand ambassador, Ashley personifies Bathmate’s dedication to the retail world, showering staff with equal amounts of appreciation and sales education.

Women In Adult ·
profile

Good Relations Fosters Sex Wellness, Positivity for 40+ Years

Melinda Myers, the founder and owner of Good Relations in Eureka, California, was still in college when she got invited to attend her first pleasure products home party.

Quinton Bellamie ·
opinion

Why It's Time for Pleasure Brands to Stop Ignoring B2C Marketing

For many B2B adult brands, marketing to consumers feels like a waste of time. I’ve heard it so many times: “We sell to retailers, not consumers. Why should we invest in B2C marketing?”

Hail Groo ·
opinion

The Midlife Movement Is Exploding; Is the Pleasure Industry Ready?

In marketing, there tends to be an emphasis on the younger generation — the trendsetters. The assumption is that appealing to the younger market has a halo effect on older consumers, who look to younger folks for what is on trend.

Sarah Tomchesson ·
opinion

Gender Play Gets Creative With Fantasy Toys

Sex toy manufacturers are increasingly recognizing the value of fantasy products, expanding their lines to include ever more diverse designs. What was once considered a niche market has proven to have broad appeal, demonstrating that people are eager to explore desires that extend beyond conventional human experiences.

Rin Musick ·
opinion

How Sex Toy Retailers Can Better Support Marginalized Communities

As someone who has been in the industry since 2003, I’ve seen countless trends, products and marketing strategies come and go. Yet one thing has remained consistent: a significant gap in how sex toy retailers serve marginalized communities.

Kimberly Scott Faubel ·
Show More