How to Perform Nipple Play

Nipple play is a sexual technique that involves stimulating the nipple and the surrounding areola for sexual pleasure. Nipples are made of erectile tissue, like a penis or clitoris, that stiffen and engorge upon arousal. The human nipple is a distinctly powerful erogenous zone, containing hundreds of sensitive nerve endings lying below the surface. Depending on nipple sensitivity, some people who participate in nipple play can achieve a nipple orgasm without any genital stimulation. Recent studies have shown that nipple play lights up the genital sensory cortex, the same pleasure centers of the brain as the clitoris and cervix. People of any sexual orientation or gender identity can enjoy nipple play.

Here are some nipple-play techniques to try solo or with a partner:

• Use lubrication. Using lube before a session of nipple rolling, pinching, and rubbing is essential for preventing dry friction, which can lead to uncomfortable chafing. Flavored lubes are a popular choice for oral nipple play, and CBD-based lubes can increase blood flow to the area.
• Start slow. Start by massaging the entire breast or chest area, lightly brushing a palm over each nipple before directly engaging it. Use your fingertips to trace curves and caress other sensitive areas of the body, like the hollow of the neck, stomach, or thighs.
• Experiment with temperature play. Nipples are notably sensitive to cold temperatures, but you can use heat to relax the tissue and promote circulation. Use ice cubes, warming lube, or sex-safe candle wax to alternate between temperatures during nipple stimulation.
• Provide hands-free pleasure with a nipple clamp. Most nipple clamps can adjust to various degrees of pressure, allowing for everything from a light squeeze to heavy-duty tweaking while freeing up your hands to explore other erogenous zones. Clamping at the base of the nipple produces light numbness by restricting blood flow while clamping at the tip results in a sharper, more painful sensation.
• Use sex toys. There are sex toys designed explicitly for nipple play, like nipple pumps—suction-based silicone cups that can be placed over the nipple to increase blood flow and produce a tightening sensation. Palm-sized vibrators are also a popular way to deliver concentrated, buzzy sensations.
• Use your mouth. Whether you are performing nipple play on yourself or a partner, incorporating your tongue, lips, and teeth can be incredibly stimulating. The tongue is an incredibly versatile tool when it comes to nipple play: Circling, flicking, and broad licks are all effective ways to pleasure sensitive nipples, and a nibble or a bite (depending on your partner’s pain threshold) can also be enjoyable.

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