Latest news with #MagicWand
New York Post
a day ago
- Health
- New York Post
A week of no masturbation leads to depression and stress: study
Just beat it. A new study seems to confirm what most of us already knew deep down in our throbbing loins — sexual pleasure is a boon for body and mind. 4 Resisting the urge to chase the big O turns out to be a big N-O for body and mind, a new study revealed. New Africa – And denying yourself that pleasure in any way is bad, very bad — in many ways. Of course, a survey commissioned by the makers of a popular vibrator — the Magic Wand — would say that. But the statistics seem to be real, and experts appear to agree with the findings. Citing a 'shift towards 'sexual wellness' with a general understanding that sex toy use and pleasure can have a positive impact,' a representative for the makers of the personal pleasure aid said in a written statement that the company's goal was to collect scientific data that shows the real impact self-love can have on people's lives. The sizzling study gently tapped 1,000 women, or 'participants with vulvas,' as the authors put it, handing out Magic Wand Rechargeable personal massagers to all, asking them to track their quality of life over a three-week period. The game guinea pigs were instructed to adhere to one week of abstinence, one week of daily Magic Wand use — those with partners were invited to incorporate the tool into their sex play — and one week back to their regular sex schedules and devices. Across the board, a week without pleasure reportedly triggered a drop in all quality-of-life measures, including happiness, body image, confidence, and relationship connection. Worse still, it also increased stress, the data showed. 4 A week without pleasure triggered a drop in all quality-of-life measures, including happiness, body image, confidence, and relationship connection — and increased stress. Tinnakorn – 4 Study participants fared far better during the weeks where sex and sex play were permitted. Prostock-studio – An orgasm a day, however, appeared to keep the doctor away. Using the vibrator every day for a week increased quality of life all around. Happiness, body image, confidence and sleep all improved — while stress decreased. 'When thinking about the state of the world and the stress and anxiety crisis that we are living through, we think that orgasms can help us all stay grounded in our bodies and finding joy,' Lead researcher Dr. Candice Nicole Hargons told The Post. One participant said: 'Using the wand helped me manage my daily stress. It was an excuse to step away from my computer, connect with myself and reset.' 4 Using the vibrator every day for a week increased quality of life all around. Incorporating sex toys didn't just help singles. In fact — yes, yes, yes! — partner connection climaxed during the week using the vibrator. When participants went back to 'sex as usual' in Week 3, some benefits lingered, but many feelings began to fade. The partner connection shockingly drooped — faster than a flaccid penis. It's not that 'usual sex' was bad. It just couldn't match the consistency, intensity, or intentionality of daily sex with a toy. The experts hope the research helps dispel the common misconception that these types of kinky products are 'bad' for relationships. And, it turned out, participants didn't even have to orgasm to feel the benefits to their brain, their body, their sleep cycle and more. Just making time for sexual activity, solo or partnered, was enough to bring the sexy back. Fortunately for them, most people did orgasm — one participant reported having five in a row with the Magic Wand. 'The difference in my emotional regulation and dissociation between [the abstinence week and the sex toy week] is huge! I'd only suspected a connection before this study, but the week without sexual activity was worse and worse for emotional regulation and dissociation and depression symptoms,' another gushed. But after two big Os they felt 'back to their usual self' — describing themselves as focused, happy, emotionally regulated, excited about things, less anxious and rumination. They also became more interested in school and homework — and wanted to spend more time with their friends.
New York Times
10-06-2025
- Entertainment
- New York Times
Go Ahead and Shower With the New Waterproof Magic Wand
Versions of the iconic Magic Wand have been our top-pick vibrator for more than a decade. And now, for its latest trick, the Magic Wand is waterproof. The Magic Wand Waterproof is distributor Vibratex's answer to a shortcoming of previous versions — you can't shower or bathe with them, or run them under a faucet for easier cleaning. Compared with previous versions, this newest model also has a stronger, more rumbly level-four 'high' setting. In our experience, it feels like the most powerful Magic Wand yet. Expect to pay extra for these features. If a waterproof toy is important to you, or if you crave even more intensity, it may well be a worthwhile investment. This is a waterproof version of our longtime top-pick vibrator. It's rechargeable and can be submerged in water for up to 30 minutes, which also means it is easier to clean than other Magic Wand models. No other toy matches the power and intensity of the widely beloved Magic Wand. The intense stimulation it provides can be particularly helpful for people experiencing diminished libido or sensitivity. This is a waterproof version of our longtime top-pick vibrator. It's rechargeable and can be submerged in water for up to 30 minutes, which also means it is easier to clean than other Magic Wand models. No other toy matches the power and intensity of the widely beloved Magic Wand. The intense stimulation it provides can be particularly helpful for people experiencing diminished libido or sensitivity. The Magic Wand Waterproof looks almost identical to the Magic Wand Rechargeable, our top pick, with a few subtle differences. The circumference at the top of the body is a bit larger (it's 0.3 inch wider in diameter, per Vibratex), and the unit itself weighs 60 grams (about the weight of a chicken egg) more than the Rechargeable version, according to our measurements. 'Waterproof' is clearly printed below the Magic Wand logo, so there's little risk of your accidentally mixing it up with another model you may own. The Waterproof version also functions the same way as the Rechargeable model does, with an on/off power button and two buttons to take you through four intensity levels and four vibration patterns. In addition to being waterproof (with an IPX7 rating, it can be submerged down to 1 meter, or 3.3 feet, for up to 30 minutes), this toy produces vibrations that feel stronger and more rumbly at every level but especially at the highest, level four. Whether that is a selling point or a drawback for you depends on your personal preference, but people who adore the Magic Wand because of its unparalleled power are likely to appreciate this upgrade. For regular users of a non-waterproof Magic Wand, the ease of throwing this new model in the sink for a quick and easy soap-and-water rinse under the faucet will be absolutely liberating. Being able to use it for a shower massage or in a tub is a bonus for those who enjoy playing in water. The Magic Wand Waterproof takes a dip in the bath. Bianca Alba for NYT Wirecutter The Magic Wand Waterproof has a few minor flaws. It is about $60 more expensive than the Rechargeable version, and people who already find the Rechargeable model to be too strong probably wouldn't enjoy the additional power this toy offers. The Waterproof model must also charge longer for a shorter total run time: four hours of charging for two and a half hours of play, in contrast to the three hours of charging for three hours of play with the Rechargeable version. Unlike the Magic Wand Rechargeable, the Magic Wand Waterproof is nonoperational in charging mode, so if you run out of juice in the middle of a session, you're out of luck. This was designed as a safety feature, and it's the only significant drawback we found in this toy in comparison with the Rechargeable model. Another minor drawback: A small included blue cap is intended to be plugged into the charging port when the vibrator is submerged in water. The toy is fully waterproof without the cap, which is meant to keep the port dry so that it can be safely plugged in for charging. If you're prone to losing and misplacing small objects, keeping track of this cap may prove to be an annoyance. From top: The Magic Wand Plus, a corded model; the cordless Magic Wand Rechargeable, our top pick; and the cordless Magic Wand Waterproof, the newest toy in the line (and the only one that can be submerged in water). Bianca Alba for NYT Wirecutter If you are a Magic Wand lover looking to upgrade or replace an existing toy, and you don't mind spending a little extra for ease of cleaning, versatility, and added power, this model is worth the additional expense. This article was edited by Tracy Vence and Kalee Thompson. Few products have had as profound an effect on sexual health as the Magic Wand . It's a decent back and shoulder massager, too. Over 10 years of research and testing, we still think the Magic Wand Rechargeable is the best clitoral vibrator. It's an effective whole-body massager, too. Buying a vibrator can be tricky without a great recommendation. This week, we discuss why vibrators are still so taboo—and how to pick one you'll love.
Yahoo
07-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Tariffs are coming for your sex toys
Trump's massive tariffs on China are going to hurt your sex life. Most sex toys sold in the U.S. are manufactured in China, and production can't quickly shift stateside. This month, the president has made a slew of announcements and backtracks on global tariffs. This has led to an escalating trade war with China, with current tariffs on imports at 145 percent (as of this writing), and the administration hinting that they can balloon to 245 percent. SEE ALSO: People are rushing to Temu and Shein to beat Trump's tariffs As many products sold in the U.S. are made in China, many industries and customers will likely suffer. Sex toy companies aren't any different, and if these tariffs continue, your bedside drawer might look a lot emptier soon. Why are sex toys made in China? "Pretty much all toys are made in China," said Carolyn Eagle, owner of the online sex toy shop Betty's Toy Box and others. Factories in China have the manufacturing capabilities and decades of knowledge to make toys, particularly vibrators, which have small electronic parts like motors. This wasn't always the case, though, according to sex historian and journalist Hallie Lieberman. In the early twentieth century, vibrators were produced in the U.S. — and companies were proud of it. "Pretty much all toys are made in China." - Carolyn Eagle, owner of the online sex toy shop Betty's Toy Box "In the early 1900s, the U.S. [...] Racine, Wisconsin marketed itself as ' vibrator capital of the world ,'" said Lieberman, author of Buzz: A Stimulating History of the Sex Toy . "We were making electric motors and vibrators in Wisconsin […] the Midwest was that production capital, because we were making small electric motors here. They had the infrastructure, they had the factories." In the decades since, Lieberman said we've "gone from doing vibrator production in the U.S. to completely outsourcing it." Why? Why does the U.S. outsource vibrator production? Firstly, these Midwestern-made vibrators weren't marketed for sexual purposes (even though that's what they were used for); they were sold as products for health and non-sexual uses — even vacuum cleaners . Around the sexual revolution and women's liberation movement in the 1960s and 70s, vibrators did become more associated with sex, and women's masturbation in particular. This contributed to more stigma around the toys. American companies like Hamilton Beach, which produced vibrators at the turn of the century (you can find some on eBay ), focused on other household appliances instead. Meanwhile, the iconic Magic Wand vibrator (formerly known as the Hitachi Magic Wand), which isn't produced in the U.S., debuted in 1968. By the time Vibratex, the wholesale distributor of Magic Wand, took over distributing and managing the vibrators in 2000, Magic Wand was manufactured in China. The switch from manufacturing in Japan to China happened in the late 1980s or early 1990s, CEO of Vibratex Ken Herskovitz told Mashable. Vibratex, which launched the also-famous Rabbit Pearl vibrator, also shifted production from Japan to China (unrelated to Magic Wand) around that time because of the reduced labor cost and larger manufacturing infrastructure, Herskovitz said. "Shenzhen and Dongguan are where, I would say, about 90 percent of all sex toys are made." - Alexandra Fine, co-founder and CEO of sex toy company Dame Today, it's difficult to determine how many vibrators and other sex toys are produced in China and imported into the U.S., Lieberman said. These products don't have a NAICS (North American Industry Classification System) code, so they're not categorized like retail or agriculture products. Despite the lack of official statistics, Lieberman and business owners Mashable spoke to made it clear that the vast majority of sex toys sold in the U.S. are made in China. "Shenzhen and Dongguan are where, I would say, about 90 percent of all sex toys are made," Alexandra Fine, co-founder and CEO of sex toy company Dame, told Mashable. "They are experts there at making this type of product." Certain aspects of vibrators are particularly difficult to make, Fine continued. She used an example of not being able to use high-temperature silicone around electronics because it'll melt the electronics. "There's nuance. They're hard to do, and this is where the experts are, and how we can make quality product," she said. "The manufacturers in Shenzhen are exceptional at what they do," wrote Polly Rodriguez, co-founder and CEO of sex toy brand Unbound, in a blog post about how tariffs are impacting the company . "There is no other region that can match their quality of raw materials, technology, safety standards, manufacturing processes, speed, and price." Can sex toys be made in the U.S.? One stated reason for the tariffs is to bring manufacturing back to the U.S. But in the case of many products, including sex toys, it's not easy. Two variables are the ability to make products at scale and cost, according to Michael Topolovac, co-founder and CEO of pleasure jewelry company Crave. Currently, supply chains that companies need to make an array of products at scale (meaning, a lot of them) don't really exist in the U.S. "For example, batteries and motors. They're not manufactured in the U.S. anywhere," said Topolovac. "Not for these kinds of consumer products. They just don't exist. Could you build battery and motor factories in the U.S.? Sure, but that's a five-year problem." "Could you build battery and motor factories in the U.S.? Sure, but that's a five-year problem." - Michael Topolovac, co-founder and CEO of pleasure jewelry company Crave "When you get to electro-mechanical products, and the scale at work that we're doing it, it's just not feasible in the U.S. currently," said Ti Chang, co-founder and creative director of Crave. Crave does its design, research and development, some assembly, and quality control in San Francisco, but its parts are made in China. The other problem is cost. Rates for labor, construction, real estate, and basic living costs are higher here than in China. "Even if you could build up the supply chain, it would be materially more expensive," Topolovac said. So, are sex toy prices going to go up? If nothing changes with the tariffs, yes. "People are going to have to really raise the prices of vibrators," Lieberman said. Sex toy brands are responding to this potential reality in different ways. Unbound and Dame posted blog posts about the tariffs, pledging transparency to their customers. When the tariffs were set at 20 percent, Dame instituted a $5 "Trump tariff surcharge," which Fine told Mashable wasn't enough to offset the increased cost on the company's end. Last week, Dame updated the charge and the blog post , stating, "We've updated our prices to reflect a ~50 percent tariff. Because we just don't think it will stay at 145 percent." Dame's "Trump's tariff surcharge" is currently $15, and Dame and Fine shared more about the company's math on Instagram . Vibratex sells wholesale to retailers, and effective immediately, there's a 10 percent tariff offset fee, which also wouldn't fully cover the increased cost, Herskovitz said. As of this publication, beginning in May, there will be a 20 percent tariff offset fee; in June, 30 percent; and in July, 40 percent. Vibratex aims to cap this fee to its customers (retailers) at 40 percent. Vibratex has also controlled order sizes so one retailer doesn't stock up on all their inventory before prices increase. Meanwhile, Crave stocked up on extra inventory before Trump's tariff announcement, given his history of imposing tariffs on China . In an email sent to customers and forwarded to Mashable, Crave stated it's not raising prices for now, but urged customers to buy something if they're eyeing it. "[O]wing to the extreme tariffs and their apparent likelihood of being maintained, it is unclear how long we can keep our current pricing," Crave's email stated. It's difficult to say how much products will cost if manufacturing eventually shifts to the U.S., Topolovac said, but he estimated prices can go up 300 or 400 percent. Hurting businesses and bodies The escalating tariffs are causing chaos in the markets and businesses. "If one's intent — I use that word very broadly — was wanting to eviscerate very large swaths of small businesses in America, this is precisely how you would do it," said Topolovac, CEO of Crave. "I feel a little apocalyptic about my vibrators right now." - Alexandra Fine, co-founder and CEO of Dame Multiple business owners told Mashable that the instability of Trump's decisions has made it difficult to decide what to do. Across industries, from beauty to children's toys to furniture , business owners feel, as the Wall Street Journal reported, "stuck in limbo." "I feel like I'm dancing with chaos," Fine said. "I feel a little apocalyptic about my vibrators right now." "Everyone's on edge," Herskovitz said of the Vibratex team. "This current situation feels very unpredictable. We don't know. It's why I'm doomscrolling all day." "Even if the tariffs continue on for another couple of months, companies are going to start going under," said Eagle. "They just won't be able to afford to produce and bring over the product that they need to bring over." These impacts will undoubtedly affect consumers, and not just their wallets. "It's easy to look at it and say, 'Oh, it's just frivolous, whatever,'" about sex toys, "but these are products people use on their genitals, inside their bodies," Lieberman said. SEE ALSO: Whatever Trump decides on tariffs, Apple and Tim Cook lose "People are always going to want to masturbate. They're always going to want to provide pleasure. They will find a way to get the cheaper product, even with the surcharge, the Shein product , or the whatever product that may have dangerous chemicals in it that may break, that may be harmful to them." What makes matters worse is that this is happening alongside a years-long attempt to stifle online sexuality. Twin laws FOSTA-SESTA , which Trump signed into law in 2018, were outwardly to curb online sex trafficking, but in reality have pushed sex workers (and educators, and other people in the sexuality space ) off social platforms and the internet. This makes them less safe and also makes it harder to find credible information online. Sex toy companies, especially women-centered ones, aren't exempt from this. In 2023, Unbound showed that Meta rejected its toy ads until it marketed to men. Additionally, around a third of the U.S. is now subject to age-verification laws . These laws typically require identification data (in the form of government ID or facial recognition) for visitors of sites with over a third of explicit content. Despite free speech advocates and researchers saying age-verification doesn't work to stop minors from accessing porn sites, they persist. And age verification is coming for sex toys. Last month, Texas introduced a bill to require official proof of age to buy sex toys online . "Current struggles impacting toy businesses with the new tariffs remind us of challenges we continue to see faced by advocates, researchers, and educators like ourselves in the broader field of sexual rights," COO at sexual freedom nonprofit Woodhull Freedom Foundation , Mandy Salley, said in an emailed statement to Mashable. "Restrictive policies on who can access sexual content online, increasing censorship of sexual expression on social media, and regressive human rights policies contribute to the censorship and stigmatization of consenting adults' access to sexual content." It's unclear whether the 145 percent tariffs will last long after this publication or for years, and how sex toy companies will respond. One thing for sure is, they're killing the buzz in more ways than one.
Buzz Feed
24-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
Reviewers Say These Are Their Favorite Sex Toys For Solo Play
For some, a solid, well-performing sex toy is an essential part of solo play. But in the vast sea of gadgets and gizmos that whir, buck, vibrate and thrust, it can feel, well, hard to find the one that's just right for you. Many reviewers of the toys in this list claimed to have found their Goldilocks of sex toys. The roundup includes everything from vibrating strokers to powerful G-spot wands to an adorable textured starfish toy that works for every kind of anatomy. Keep scrolling to find your own happy ending. 1. A cult-favorite air suction toy Amazon A fan favorite in the world of suction toys, this second-generation model of the Satisfyer Pro is ergonomically designed and made with incredibly soft body-safe silicone. It uses a series of 11 different intense air pulsations to truly satisfy. Promising review: "This toy is great! It took a few days of playing with it to figure out how to make it work with my anatomy, as I'm trans male and have some bottom growth that makes me large for some toys, and I am very happy with my purchase. It has some amazing suction, it's not too loud, is easy to hold, and has been great to bring into the shower or use in bed. I am happy to say this toy can make me orgasm in ways traditional vibrators cannot. I also like how it charges, the magnetic charging has been great, as I don't feel as worried about the charging cord being damaged, if there's too much pressure on the cord it will pull free, and I don't need to shove and worry about putting the cord into a port." — Tamara Moore Get it from Amazon for $49.95 (available in three colors). 2. The iconic wireless Magic Wand Amazon The Magic Wand has a long-standing reputation as the best clitoral-stimulating toy on the market. Although there have been many replicas, the original is still a favorite for its legendary soft silicone head and ultra-powerful eight vibrational settings. This version is cordless and can be recharged with the included USB cable, or, if you don't want to wait for the battery to regain its juice, simply switch it on at a wall outlet to use it just like the very first corded model. Promising review:"If you're reading reviews on this, you probably already know what it is for. It's a phenomenal tool to have in the bedroom for either solo or partnered play. Some may say it is too powerful or intense, but I think that just adds more potential for spicing things up!" — Andrew S. Get it from Amazon for $127.99. 3. A G-spot and clitoral simulator toy Amazon Simultaneously target two spots at once with this waterproof sucking and vibrating toy. Choose from five sucking patterns and intensities as well as five unique tapping patterns that mimic real penetration. There's even a pre-heated function that will make the toy match your body's own temperature. Promising review:"This toy is an absolute game-changer! The remote feature makes it so exciting to use, whether in the privacy of your home or while out and about. It's incredibly discreet in public, allowing for some playful fun that takes the dynamic to an entirely new level of thrill and connection. The battery life is fantastic, so you don't have to worry about it running out at the wrong moment. Cleaning is super easy, which makes it hassle-free to maintain. Whether you're enjoying it solo or with a partner, it's versatile and guaranteed to keep things exciting. Highly recommend for anyone looking to add a little extra fun and spontaneity to their life!" — Shelley B. Get it from Amazon for $31.39 (available in two colors). 4. A luxury G-spot wand Babeland Encased in a luxuriously soft premium silicone, the waterproof Gigi 2 by Lelo features a targeted flattened tip created for precise G-spot stimulation. The specially designed head is also perfect for external play, and eight vibration settings ranging from a teasing murmur to a deep pulse ensure that anyone who uses it will be satisfied. Promising review:"This is my first G spot vibrator. I wanted something stylish, by a well-known manufacturer, but also gentle, with plenty of settings to choose from. I have it all in Gigi 2. The tip is just the way it should be to feel good. Silicone is soft, so nice. Many settings let me experiment with various mode-speed combinations. It is easy to clean the toy and also to recharge. Love it." — NT35 Get it from Babeland for $149 (available in three colors). 5. A vibrating tongue simulator This fully waterproof and dual-sided toy features a thrusting internal vibe on one end and a rose-shaped stimulator on the other. The rose houses an ultra-soft, vibrating and removable "tongue" attachment that aims to mimic the sensation of real oral sex. When combined, users can pleasure their way through 27 different vibrational, thrusting and licking settings and enjoy up to 45 minutes of play time per charge. Promising review:"This is an amazing addition to our toy drawer! I have been looking at items like the rose and I came across this. It's basically two toys in one. Use either part separately, or use both of them at the same time. Playing solo? This is the only toy you will need. Playing with your partner? My partner is very enthusiastic about adding this to our sessions. And the quality is excellent for the price point. Don't even think about it! Just buy it! You'll thank me later!" — Kim Get it from Amazon for $28.98+ (available in six colors). 6. A versatile and gender neutral starfish The adorable and innovative toy offerings from Cute Little Fuckers, a queer-, trans- and disabled-owned sexual wellness company, are created to be inclusive of all anatomies. The Starsi is a crowd favorite thanks to its ability to cover genitalia with a curved and softly textured surface that vibrates through five modes and speeds. Designed to be easy to hold, even for those with limited mobility, the Starsi can be grinded on or nestled on erogenous zones. Promising review:"I cannot say enough good things about this purchase. The Starsi knocked it out of the park! The surface area of the toy is wide enough to cover the entire internal and external portions of the clitoris complex. The grooves are both soft and distinctive enough to have a grind that is satisfying. Additionally, it is easy to hold and grip; no toys flying out from under you right when you most need them. 5/5 stars for the number of consecutive orgasms we had with it!" — Anonymous Get it from Cute Little Fuckers for $79 (available in two colors). 7. A vibrating stroker toy Cake This waterproof and vibrating stroking toy for penises fits perfectly in the palm of your hand, and its ergonomic design can help make it easier to control the pressure and speed of your stroke. The interior features a thick, ribbed texture that warms to the body's temperature and has 10 different vibration modes for customized pleasure. Plus, the vibrating bullet inside the toy can easily be removed to stimulate other areas on the body, either on you or a partner. Promising review:"The variation to the speed makes it perfect for what ever you want. The grip pressure is perfect and easy to put on or take off as needed. It gives you the right amount of pleasure to take you to the next level." — Terry S. Get it from Cake for $25. 8. A prostate massager Lovehoney This probing-style vibrator is a Lovehoney bestseller for prostate gland stimulation. It promises an ergonomically designed bulbed shaft that's perfectly angled for the P-spot and is crafted from soft silicone for comfortable use. You can cycle through three speeds and four patterns of vibration and it can even be used completely submerged in water. Promising review:"The packaging and presentation was very impressive. The size excited me, it's larger than I expected. It's made of high-quality soft-touch rubber over something hard, so it has the perfect amount of give where needed. It has three settings of constant vibration, in increasing strengths, then three patterned vibration modes. This is a great feature as the same thing after a while can reduce the impact. It keeps me on edge the whole time I'm using it. This vibrator is the only one that's given me a leg-shaking orgasm when I've used it. The battery life is fantastic and I love that the recharge port is self-resealing rubber, this is very clever and great quality. I have recommended this product to multiple people." — Leedsguy Get it from Lovehoney for $79.99. 9. A thrusting Rabbit toy Lovehoney A powerful three-speed thrusting shaft and vibrating rabbit ears for external stimulation make this classic vibrator a beloved take on a classic toy. It's covered in a silky easy-to-clean silicone, has seven vibration patterns and offers a completely waterproof operation. Promising review:"I was keen to try my first Rabbit vibrator and the moment I saw the thrust feature I knew this was the toy for me. This toy was everything I hoped it would be. The ears are soft and the vibration was just right. The size and proportion of the toy were perfect for my body and adding in the thrust feature resulted in an out of this world orgasm in about a minute! I love that it's USB rechargeable as well. Overall an amazing toy!!" — Alex Get it from Lovehoney for $99.99. 10. A versatile internal and external vibe Dame The Dip by Dame, a sexologist-founded wellness brand, is a simple and sleek vibrator that gives meaning to the phrase "less is more." Perfect for both internal and external use and coated in silky medical-grade silicone, this waterproof gadget features a ridged tip and five pleasing intensity settings. Promising review: "This my first vibrator, ever. I was incredibly intimidated by it at first - like it sat in my top drawer unopened for a week... Sex Ed was taboo in my big religious family. I spent a long time thinking something was wrong with my body, but actually, it was being with partners that didn't understand what they were doing. I don't really have the words to express how eye opening The Dip is. It's truly been life changing for me. It's approachable, efficient, and has been a confidence builder to say the least. I highly recommend it!!" — Abigail W. Get it from Dame for $45 (available in two colors). 11. A discreet Fleshlight masturabator Lovehoney Fleshlights have always been a favorite masturbator toy among people with penises and this is a discreet, softer and more satisfying redesign of the original. The 6.5-inch sleeve is crafted with an incredibly textured and bumpy interior and combines the pleasurable addition of suction which can be adjusted using the screw cap base. Promising review:"I've owned a few Fleshlights but this has to be the best. To start with it's very discrete, it doesn't remotely look like a sex toy. The sleeve feels amazing, not too tight or loose and hits just the right spots for me. If I want a quick release or a relaxing long session it's always up to the job. Cleanup after is super easy, it comes apart easily and is clean in a matter of minutes." — Normalmaybe
WIRED
15-04-2025
- Business
- WIRED
Your Favorite Sex Toy Brand Might Go Under
There's still a 145 percent tariff on China, and sex toys aren't part of the electronics exemption. If you buy something using links in our stories, we may earn a commission. Learn more. It's hard to make sense of tariffs because things are changing day by day. The only constant seems to be the exorbitantly high 145 percent tariff on China. While President Donald Trump may have exempted tariffs on a handful of electronics over the weekend, like smartphones, laptops, and TVs (though maybe not for long), that doesn't apply to other gadgets from China, even if there's a printed circuit board inside, like sex toys. Sex toy manufacturers are generally bucketed under the 'massagers' or 'adult' product category when it comes to imports and exports, meaning these companies have been forced to pay a hefty tariff on their goods since April 9. Brands, like Dame, Unbound, and Vibratex, are already feeling the effects, and if things don't change, there's a chance some may have to close up shop. Alex Fine, CEO of Dame, was among the first to publicly address the impact on Instagram. 'So far we've already had shipments that incurred a 20 percent increase,' Fine tells WIRED. She says the company has been working to minimize how much extra customers pay, but had to implement a $5 'Trump tariff surcharge' on all orders. 'A 54 percent increase in cost of goods sold would have put Dame in the red last year, and at 125 percent, I'm not going to even do that math.' That was before Trump raised the tariff to 145 percent. Polly Rodriguez, CEO of sex toy brand Unbound, says a vibrator that previously cost the company $30 now has a tariff cost of $44, bringing the total to $74. Tariffs are now Unbound's largest expense as a business, higher than payroll or manufacturing. Some companies are playing it cool for now. 'At Le Wand and b-Vibe, we're taking a measured approach to the tariff situation,' says Alicia Sinclair, CEO of COTR Inc., the parent company behind both brands. 'While our products are manufactured in China, meaning tariffs will certainly impact our cost structure, we've deliberately maintained sufficient inventory to give ourselves time to evaluate the situation properly.' The consensus from many of the companies I spoke with was that there's a lot of uncertainty in the air, and prices are already up. Samantha Marshall, head of brand and marketing at Smile Makers, says the company has already raised prices, as the tariffs are too high to be fully absorbed by retailers. Vibratex, the parent company that distributes the iconic Magic Wand, deals with retailers more than direct customers, and Ken Herskovitz, the company's CEO, says it plans to absorb portions of the increased wholesale cost. If these tariffs remain, it won't just mean spending more money on sex toys, but possibly seeing your favorite sex toy company go out of business. 'There are two things that will happen without question,' says Rodriguez. 'Small businesses will go under, as many of us cannot bear a cost increase this large. The businesses that can endure will have no choice but to increase prices, which we're already seeing.' Like Le Wand, Rodriguez says Unbound has inventory in stock, but tens of thousands more are on their way to its warehouse in the US. She says the company will do everything it can to limit the impact on pricing. 'Unbound was built on the belief that sexual wellness products should be accessible for all, and we have always defined that as being well below $100. It is still our goal to maintain that threshold.' Both Fine and Rodriguez pointed out how the tariffs will affect small businesses the hardest, as they do not have the resources of big tech corporations to get exemptions, even if they're temporary. 'From where I'm sitting, it will come down harder on female-founded businesses, because so many of them are beauty and wellness-related,' Fine says.
