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](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/learn-about-the-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](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/gender-identity-guide) can enjoy nipple play. Here are some nipple-play techniques to try solo or with a partner: - __Use lubrication__. Using [lube](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-use-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](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/erogenous-zones-guide). 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](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/sex-toy-guide) 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. Craving a little more intimacy? Grab a [MasterClass Annual Membership](https://www.masterclass.com) and learn more about open <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/robin-robertss-tips-for-effective-communication' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/robin-robertss-tips-for-effective-communication","linkCopy":"communication","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>communication with your partners, experimenting in the bedroom, and being your own best sexual advocate with a little help from Emily Morse (host of the wildly popular podcast *Sex With Emily*). Exploring nipple play is a great way to deepen your sexual experience during foreplay, masturbation, or penetrative sex.