15 Surprising Facts About Vibrators You Never Knew

9. Not all vibrators are for vaginas.

Given that many vibrators lead double lives as “back massagers,” it’s not surprising that vibration feels great for lots of folks on lots of different parts. The Cobra Libre and the Hand Solo are two toys designed specifically for penises, and even the Magic Wand can work wonders. Studies show that 45 to 50 percent of men have used a vibrator in their life.

10. Using a vibrator can make you a better singer.

The Vibrant Voice Technique, developed by voice coach David Ley, claims that using a vibrator against the vocal cords can “quickly and effectively enhance vocal resonance.” They recommend the popular Lelo Siri which is, incidentally, also great for orgasms.

11. No matter what you’ve heard, vibrators don’t decrease sensitivity.

Don’t worry, frequent vibe enjoyer! There’s no evidence of long-term numbness associated with sex-toy use. In fact, I often had people come into my store on doctor’s orders, looking for vibrators to bring sensitivity back to their bits, postsurgery. Vibrators have also helped women orgasm again after their antidepressants made it hard to climax.

12. Not all vibrators merely vibrate…

While there are countless vibrating toys on the market, there are plenty of other sensations to explore too. Just this year we’ve seen toys that oscillate, toys that thrust, and some extremely popular toys that suck.

13. …and not all vibrations feel the same.

Maximum enjoyment doesn’t always come down to just how strong a toy's vibration is, but which type of vibration it uses. Buzzy vibrations are going to sit on the surface of your skin, and while they may feel intense, they may also feel itchy or temporarily numbing. Rumbly vibration has a lower pitch, more like an earthquake than a bumblebee, and will penetrate through more layers of skin, hitting deeper buried nerves.

14. Like most things, vibrators are even better with lube.

Yep, even if you’re just using it externally. Many vibrators are made of silicone, which has considerably more friction than skin against skin. Plus, it’s moving faster than your average finger can. A good lube will cut down on that friction and allow the vibrator to glide against your skin more easily.

15. But there’s nothing wrong with you if you’re not into them at all.

Just like how there are people who don’t like pizza, there are people who don’t like vibrators. And that’s totally cool! Not all bodies find vibration appealing—some find it too intense, irritating, or just downright boring.

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