To use a rose-shaped air-pulse toy, charge it and wash it, add a little water-based lubricant, then rest the opening lightly over the clitoris and start on the lowest setting. There is no need to press: the toy moves air in a gentle rhythm, and the air does the work. Our Air Pulse collection brings together three toys built on this idea.
What an air-pulse stimulator does
An air-pulse stimulator is a toy built around a small opening. Placed over the clitoris, it moves air through that opening in a steady rhythm, alternating gentle suction and release: the stimulation comes from the moving air, not from a surface vibrating against the skin. That is why it is often called a clit sucker or a clitoral suction toy, although the sensation is closer to soft pulses than to continuous suction.
The rose shape is one of the forms this idea can take. On Velour, the opening sits within the flower-shaped head; inside, it works like any other air-pulse stimulator. The shape changes the look and the way you hold the toy, not the principle.
The sensation is focused on a small area, and the clitoris is very sensitive, so the lowest setting is always the right place to begin.
Air pulses or vibration: what changes
Neither is better: they are two different sensations. A vibrator works through contact. Its motor makes the surface vibrate, and you decide where to place it and how much pressure to use. The vibration can spread over a broad area, as with a wand, or stay on a very small one, as with a fine pinpoint tip.
An air-pulse toy needs no pressure. The rim of the opening rests lightly on the skin and the stimulation travels through the air, concentrated on the clitoris. Some people enjoy the buzz of vibration and the freedom to move a toy around; others prefer a lighter, more focused touch. What you enjoy is the only measure that counts.
If you are curious about both, Solstice combines an air-pulse head and a vibrating arm in one toy. For vibrators of every kind, our guide on how to use a vibrator explains the main types and the first steps.
Using it for the first time, step by step
- Charge it. Use the cable or charging stand supplied, and keep the charging contacts dry.
- Read the manual. Each toy has its own controls and modes, and the manufacturer's instructions come first.
- Wash it. Clean it before and after every use with warm water and mild soap or a toy cleaner.
- Add a little lubricant. A thin layer of water-based lubricant on the skin or on the rim of the opening makes the contact softer. Silicone-based lubricants can damage silicone toys.
- Find the position. Rest the opening over the clitoris so that its rim lightly touches the skin around it. You do not need to press: a small change of angle is enough to alter the sensation.
- Start low. Switch on at the lowest setting and stay there for a while before you try another mode or a higher level.
- Take your time. If it feels too strong, lower the level, move the opening slightly off-centre or pause. Stop if you feel pain or discomfort.
A first session is mostly about getting to know the sensation, so there is no hurry. With a partner, the same applies: talk about it first, agree together, and let the person receiving it guide the position and the pace.
Rose-shaped, pocket-size or dual: Velour, Umbra and Solstice
The three toys in our collection share the same principle and differ in shape and features. The figures below are as stated by the manufacturer.
- Velour is the rose-shaped one: its air-pulse opening sits within a crimson, flower-shaped head. The manufacturer lists 10 suction and pulse modes and an IPX7 water-resistance rating, and Velour charges on the magnetic stand included in the box.
- Umbra is the pocket-size one: about 11.7 × 4.2 cm and, according to the manufacturer, small enough for a pocket or a weekend bag. It has 5 suction modes and is the only one of the three with a noise figure: under 50 dB. For small toys that travel easily, see our guide to discreet sex toys.
- Solstice is the dual one: a flexible curve with an air-pulse head at one end and a curved vibrating arm at the other, to use on their own or together. The manufacturer lists 10 suction modes and 10 vibration modes, magnetic USB charging and a length of about 22.5 cm.
Choosing between them comes down to shape and use: Velour for the rose, Umbra for its size, Solstice if you would also like vibration.
Cleaning the opening
The opening needs the most care, because moisture and lubricant can collect around its rim. Clean the toy before and after every use with warm water and mild soap or a toy cleaner, paying attention to the rim and the inside edge of the opening.
- Switch the toy off and make sure it is not charging.
- Wash the head and the opening gently, and rinse only as far as the manufacturer's water rating allows.
- Shake out any water, pat the toy dry with a lint-free cloth and let it air-dry fully before charging.
- Never boil it: like all our silicone toys, it contains electronics.
- Store it in a cool, dry place, separately from other toys.
These steps apply to all three toys in our Air Pulse collection. For materials, lubricants and storage in more depth, read our guide on how to clean sex toys.
Questions
How does a rose-shaped air-pulse toy work?
The opening within the flower rests over the clitoris, and the toy moves air in a steady rhythm. You feel gentle pulses of suction rather than vibration, and you switch between modes as the manual describes.
Is a clit sucker the same as an air-pulse stimulator?
Yes. ‘Clit sucker’ is the informal name and ‘air-pulse stimulator’ the descriptive one, and both mean the same kind of toy. Whatever it is called, it works with rhythmic pulses of air.
How should I use it the first time?
Charge it, wash it, add a little water-based lubricant and start at the lowest level, with the opening resting lightly over the clitoris. Change one thing at a time: position, mode or level.
Can I use it with a partner?
Yes, as long as you both agree. The person receiving it guides the position and the intensity, and either of you can pause at any moment.
Can I use it in the bath or shower?
Only if the manufacturer rates the toy as water-resistant. Velour is rated IPX7 by the manufacturer, and Umbra and Solstice are described by the manufacturer as waterproof; check the manual first, and never charge a toy while it is wet.
What if it feels too intense?
Lower the level, move the opening slightly to one side or take a short break. If you feel pain or discomfort, stop, and if it does not pass, talk to a doctor.
This guide is general information, not medical advice. Specifications are as stated by the manufacturer. If you feel pain, have a health condition or are unsure, talk to a doctor.