Butt First… Anal Play for Beginners
Anal play is one of those things that can make performers either light up with possibility or tense up with hesitation, and that’s completely understandable! On camera, it’s often marketed as an upsell, a boundary-pushing moment, or a specialty request. Off camera, it can take a little practice and patience to make it both safe and profitable. Whether you’re brand new or considering adding anal play as an option for clients, this guide will help you understand the basics, keep your body healthy, and maximize your earnings without burning out or finding yourself in pain!
Why Anal Play Matters for Performers
For performers, anal scenes aren’t just about curiosity or exploration. They’re about:
Expanding your menu. Anal play can be positioned as a premium upsell for fans and clients, allowing you to earn more for the same session or scene. It may not be something you regularly offer clients, and therefore an exciting addition for some.
Standing out. Not every performer is comfortable offering anal. If you can safely and confidently add it to your repertoire, you’re immediately more marketable. Beyond that, it allows you to explore new sensations you may not otherwise have tried!
Versatility in video calls. Anal toys (plugs, beads, and dildos) can help you fill downtime, tease in video calls, and create variety for repeat viewers.
Like any skill, it’s worth building up slowly, so when the big “upsell” moment comes, your body is ready, your mind is calm, and the performance looks effortless. BUT MOST IMPORTANTLY, you don’t experience any pain or discomfort that comes with improper anal play and exploration.
Safety First: Preparing Your Body
Anal tissue is delicate, and unlike the vagina, it doesn’t self-lubricate. This means preparation is non-negotiable if you want optimal comfort and no injuries. Here are the key safety basics:
Use plenty of lube. Silicone-based lubricants are ideal for longer sessions because they don’t dry out as quickly. Water-based lubes are fine too, especially if you’re using silicone toys, but be prepared to reapply often. Never use oil-based lubes with latex condoms, as the oil will break down the condom.
Start small. Beginners should try slim training plugs, fingers, or beads before moving to thicker toys or penetration. Shapes with a tapered tip and flared base are the safest to begin with. NEVER put in a toy that does not have a flared base. No flared base… lost in space.
Warm up gradually. Spend time relaxing your body with breathwork, foreplay, and smaller toys. For performers, this also means allowing extra prep time before shoots or shows. Use a finger or two to apply some internal lubrication, alongside adding lubrication to the toy as you slowly tease and prepare.
Practice insertion and removal. On camera, you may be asked to insert, remove, and re-insert toys frequently. This repetitive motion can irritate tissue if you’re not used to it, so practice at your own pace off camera.
The National Institutes of Health notes that anal tissue is more vulnerable to microtears than vaginal tissue, which is why using adequate lubrication and avoiding rushed penetration are essential for reducing the risk of injury or infection (NIH, 2015).
Performer-Specific Considerations
Performing means your experience will be a little different from casual play and more frequent. Here’s what to expect and how to adapt:
Longer sessions. Toys may stay inserted for extended periods during cam shows, custom videos, or extended shoots. Make sure you can comfortably hold smaller plugs for at least 20–30 minutes before working up to longer durations. Beyond that, ensure the toy is made of silicone if you plan to wear it for an extended period. Silicone is flexible and body-safe, allowing more give than metal or glass.
Frequent ins and outs. Unlike private play, performance often involves multiple toy changes. Have a clean towel and extra lube nearby. Switching toys? Rinse or sanitize them quickly to avoid irritation or infection. NEVER put a toy that has been used anally anywhere else (such as your mouth or in the vagina).
Body signals. Listen closely to your body. If you feel sharp pain, burning, or cramping, pause. No scene is worth an injury that could sideline your work.
Recovery time. After anal play, give your body a rest. Avoid offering back-to-back anal shows without at least a day of recovery, especially when starting. Some relaxing gels and lubricants can assist with recovery and preparation that may be necessary if you experience frequent anal play and discomfort afterward.
Shapes, Materials, and Toys to Try
When choosing toys for performance, it’s not just about what feels good, it’s about what looks good on camera and works with your body simultaneously!
Shapes
Tapered Plugs: Great for training and extended wear. These are tapered at the end to allow for easier insertion.
Beads: Visually striking during removal, perfect for teasing fans and allowing a ‘popping’ or massaging sensation during removal and insertion.
Slim dildos: Ideal for controlled penetration and camera angles.
Materials
Silicone: Body-safe, easy to clean, best for beginners, and best paired with a water-based lubrication.
Glass or metal: Sleek, temperature-play friendly, and easy to sanitize.
Always look for toys labeled as non-porous and body-safe. Avoid cheap jelly materials, which can degrade and harbor bacteria… Which is very important to avoid in all play, ESPECIALLY anal play!
Lube: The Unsung Hero
If there’s one thing performers know, it’s that running out of lube mid-scene can kill momentum and cause discomfort. Stock a few options:
Silicone lube for long anal sessions and water resistance (e.g., shower or pool scenes).
Water-based lube for toy compatibility and easier clean-up.
Hybrid lubes for the best of both worlds.
Keep extra bottles nearby, and don’t be afraid to pause and reapply; it reads as intentional and sensual on camera rather than distracting.
Upselling Anal Play
Once you’re comfortable, anal play can become one of your strongest upsell options. Some strategies include:
Custom videos: Charge extra for anal-focused customs, whether it’s toy teasing or longer anal scenes.
Video calls: Require tips before or during the call if the user requests anal play. Have them tip more for insertion/removal.
Positioning anal play as a specialty helps you frame it as both valuable and exclusive, keeping control in your hands and allowing you to choose when and where you want to include anal (as it should be.)
Time to Play!
“Butt first” isn’t just a cheeky phrase; it’s a reminder to prioritize comfort and safety before diving into anal play as a performer. With the right tools, lube, and pacing, anal can become not just an upsell but a signature part of your brand. Remember: the more confident you feel, the more enjoyable it is for both you and your audience.
Reference: National Institutes of Health. “Sexually Transmitted Diseases Treatment Guidelines, 2015.” CDC.gov, 2015.