If you’ve been on social media lately you have no doubt ran
across a post about sex dolls. Even mainstream media has picked up on the
subject and is giving it quite a bit of attention. But what exactly are these over-sized Barbie
dolls made of? You may be surprised what this niche market has to offer. There
are a variety of materials that cater to a wide range of tastes and budgets, knowing the
difference between silicone, TPE and other materials will help make choosing a
doll that’s just right for you much easier.
 |
| TPE doll Brandy |
Sex dolls have come a long way in recent times. Although the
concept of such a companion for sexual gratification goes back the 17th
century with Dutch sailors, modern technology has had it’s influence on these
life-size dolls. In the 1970s companies began manufacturing inflatable sex
dolls using latex and vinyl. In addition to these materials tin-cured silicone also became a popular choice for making more realistic dolls. In 2009 this all
changed with the introduction of Real Doll.
Real Doll (now Abyss Creations, LLC) founder Matt McMullin originally
formed his company to offer retailers a more realistic version of the store
mannequin. His idea never caught on with retailers and production of realistic sex
dolls took over. Today his Real Doll sex doll creations are well known throughout
the world. Originally constructed with
tin-cured silicone which was prone to tearing easily and compression marks Matt
and his team switched production to platinum silicone in 2009. This version of
silicone is more stable, provides a more realistic feel of human skin and has better
longevity. To this day platinum silicone is the standard form for silicone doll
production in the US, China, Japan and other parts of the world.
Around 2012 TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer) came into use by
Chinese sex doll manufactures. This alternative
is less expensive and preforms equally as well as platinum silicone. Although some
may argue the differences between platinum silicone and TPE, TPE has quickly taken
over the sex doll market by offering a less expensive option for consumers; to
keep up with this demand some silicone doll manufacturers now offer TPE
versions of their dolls. With two materials so similar how does one decide which
one to consider when making a sex doll purchase? Here are some things to
consider.
1.
Platinum silicone (P.S.) dolls are more
expensive than TPE dolls of similar size. If you find a P.S. doll you like ask
the vendor if it is available in TPE, this will reduce the cost of the doll if
available.
2.
Both P.S. and TPE stain easily from dark clothing.
The advantage of P.S. is the stain is absorbed into the doll body over time
whereas TPE requires a product to remove the stain.
3.
P.S can
be repaired easily with products found at a local hardware store, TPE requires a
special glue typically only available through a vendor.
4.
P.S. tends to be firmer and have a uniform feel between
manufacturers.
5.
TPE formulas vary between manufacturers. One
brand of TPE doll may be softer than another but is generally softer than P.S.
6.
P.S. production and turnaround time is longer
than TPE.
7.
Both are durable materials. TPE has more stretching
capabilities than P.S.
8.
Both have memory. Creases and indentations can
occur with tight clothing or sitting in one position too long, relieve the
stress from the affected area and the crease or indentation will disappear.
9.
Both require the same maintenance. Powdering the
dolls surface with talc or cornstarch is needed to keep the body smooth and
silky. Regular washing is also necessary.
10.
The sexual experience is equally realistic with
P.S. or TPE.
Some vendors offer “TPE Silicone” or “American Silicone”
dolls, it is important to look for these terms when choosing a vendor. These vendors
rely on the ignorance of the buyer and offer what appears to be a silicone doll
but instead is made of TPE. The TPE used by the manufacturers of these dolls is
untested and may contain chemicals that are harmful to humans.
Perhaps the biggest complaint about TPE and P.S. is the weight.
Heavy dolls can be a challenge to move around and get into position. Small 3’3”
dolls can weigh in at around 35 lbs. whereas a 5’2” or taller dolls can weigh
as much as 90 lbs. Be sure to pay attention to the weight of the doll before
you make that final decision. If weight is an issue, there are other options.
Teddy Babes, a US
based company, manufactures fully functional, anatomically correct plush dolls.
These soft cuddly dolls can be customized, be posed in a variety of
positions and weigh far less than TPE and P.S. dolls. Another unique doll is
the EX-Lite.
The EX-Lite is the first foam production
doll. Weighing in at only 18 lbs. this
doll comes in one configuration and disassembles for easy storage. Inflatable
dolls are still popular for their low price and functionality. Pipedream Extreme carries a
large selection of vinyl inflatable dolls ranging from $15-300 USD.
Sex dolls are constructed from a variety of materials
with different functionalities Deciding on which option works best for may seem
confusing. The main objective is your happiness and which doll you find most
attractive. Whether she vinyl, cloth, foam, P.S. or TPE may not have a bearing
on your decision A purchase like this can be an investment as well as a
commitment. Having knowledge of the similarities and differences between
platinum silicone and TPE and other available products will better prepare you
for what to expect when your dream girl finally arrives.
