Blindfold sex, also known as amaurophilia, is a gateway to more BDSM play. The kink involves a preference for being blindfolded during sex, having sex with someone who is blindfolded, or even having sex in complete darkness. Blindfold sex can involve a silk tie or satin blindfold placed over the eyes, one which is close-fitting, but not overly tight. This practice can be super arousing for some, as it necessitates an element of surrender—you need to have built trust with the partner who is not blindfolded. "At its core, you're giving up control to another person and allowing them to take control," says Gigi Engle, ACS, a certified sex educator and resident intimacy expert at 3Fun, an app for open and polyamorous couples. Plus the element of sensory deprivation can help a person's senses, aside from sight, to be magnified. "When you're blindfolded, all of your other senses become enhanced. You feel your partner's touch on your skin more acutely, smells become more vibrant, and orgasms can even be more intense." Blindfold sex can also be a popular kink among people who struggle with anxiety during sex, with the blindfold offering comfort and a sense of escapism.
