Lipstick Lovers: Prioritizing Your Personal Pleasure

Be honest: When was the last time you made your own pleasure a priority— especially if you were never conditioned to embrace it? 

“It’s uncommon to see mainstream expressions of feminine sexual pleasure that don’t cater to a male gaze,” says Ashley Jelks, founder of cannabis sexual wellness brand High Priestess. “This is even truer when it comes to Black femme sexuality.” But with more Black women establishing holistic self-care practices in recent years, the use of sex toys has become less taboo. Whether you’re fully immersed in your sexual nature or you’re in a place of perusal, lipstick and bullet vibrators—used solo or with partners—can elevate your experience, says Shan Boodram.

Not only are they discreet, but “these vibrators can have more total-body appeal,” she explains. “They can go against nipples, necks, butt cracks—you name it.” For nervous newcomers, Valentine’s Day may be a good time to put these toys to the test. “There’s an expectation to level up sex on the 14th,” Boodram notes. “It can help take the stigma out of it.” And let us never forget that we’re all entitled to sexual pleasure. “It’s not something you have to earn,” says Jelks, who believes cannabis—whether inhaled or used topically—can help remove mental barriers, thus enhancing physical experimentation. “Pleasure is our birthright. We are born deserving of it.”  

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High Priestess Bullet Vibrator

At only three inches long, this treat gives new meaning to the saying “Good things come in small packages.” Enjoy 10 vibration patterns, with a USB rechargeable battery for your satisfaction anytime, anyplace.
Available at highpriestess.life

Powerful yet dainty, this toy can be used at home or slipped into your bag for on-the-go pleasure.
Available at lelo.com

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Bedroom Kandi Kandi Kisses

You’ll hardly be able to tell the difference between this vibrator and your favorite lipstick. With three speeds and four vibration patterns, it will help you discover your body’s unique rhythm.
Available at bedroomkandi.com

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Maude Drop External Massager

If you’re a fan of wand vibrators, consider this the subtler version of the classic. It’s Latex-free and water-resistant, so you can use it on any erogenous part of the body for up to two hours of play.
Available at getmaude.com

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Le Wand Vibrating Gold Necklace

Bold style and modest gratification—they’re both about feeling good in our own skin, right? This slim, vibrating necklace offers eight modes, all while remaining whisper quiet. It also comes in silver, black and rose gold.
Available at shopenby.com

Although it’s slightly larger than a traditional bullet, you can slip this gem into your underwear—then pass the remote to whoever you want to control your orgasm. If you like penetration, you’ll love the removable curved attachment.
Available at organicloven.com

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Dame Zee Bullet Vibrator

“Bullet vibrators, like Zee from Dame, still pack a punch,” says Shan Boodram, certified sexologist. “Zee is quiet and has three intensities, so you can find what feels best.”
Available at dame.com

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