Butt…Does Alix Earle Have Something To Tell Us?

Alix Earle has captivated audiences with her extraordinary journey. Initially gaining fame through TikTok, where she shared her daily thoughts with a growing fan base, her influence has now transcended multiple platforms. She has graced the face of a Victoria’s Secret campaign, she was unveiled on the cover of Elle magazine, and most recently, joined Alex Cooper’s Unwell network, where she launched her own podcast titled ‘Hot Mess.’

During Alix Earle’s inaugural podcast appearance on, she courageously delved into her personal experiences, including her intimate life, with none other than the renowned Alex Cooper on ‘Call Her Daddy.’ In this candid discussion, the media sensation shared candid and revealing insights into her life, including that she recently tired a butt plug for the first time.

In celebration of this, we have turned to our on-call sex-pert and Head Of Pleasure at smilemakers, Samantha Marshall to get to the bottom (ha) of butt stuff, and to tell us about the exciting new launch of smilemakers ‘The Neighbour’…

What advice would you give to those curious about trying butt stuff?

To start with you… Anal play is not exclusively a partnered activity. In fact, assuming our first experience of anal has to be with a partner puts pressure on ourselves, and limits the pleasure we will find. We always recommend exploring yourself first via masturbation – be that clitoral, vaginal, vulval, anal… it’s just another erogenous zone to be discovered. When we spoke to members of our community, more than half said they incorporate the butt into solo sessions. If you’re curious, take the time to try it. And, remember – just like all other types of stimulation – it doesn’t have to be penetrative! Butt play can start with the perineum (the spongy bit between the vaginal opening and anus) to just between the butt cheeks, and the anal entrance is rich in nerve endings, so shallow stimulation is really where it’s at.

Which Smile Makers products would you recommend for this type of stimulation?

First impressions count, and it will certainly be a pleasure to meet The Neighbor anal vibrator. We designed this vibe to be beginner friendly, so you can play externally and internally when you’re ready. We looked at what brings people with vulvas the most anal pleasure; no more than a finger-deep and paired with other stimulation (vaginal or clitoral). The plug shape makes it easy and safe to combine with another vibrator at the front.

Of course, we cannot forget that lube is life – and an absolute essential for anal penetration. Keep a bottle of Generous Gel on hand to not just help with insertion, but also the sensations throughout. Don’t be shy to keep adding drops! Our thicker formulation is water-based, making it the best option for using with silicone based anal toys.

What do you recommend the preparation be for first time fun?

When preparing for anal sex, communication with your partner is key! Talk about it. Discussing you’re expectations or worries builds intimacy and helps you understand each other better. Knowing what you both feel comfortable with and who is open to doing what sets boundaries early on. A key reason we introduced the Neighbor to our portfolio of playful products was to increase better education and awareness around this type of stimulation. For many, they’re worried to try this because of bad technique, a lack of sex education, discomfort and an unfavorable, lasting impression. Our new product will help people who previously may have felt too scared or intimidated to try butt stuff!

When it comes to trying for the first time too, there is one big essential. Lube! The anus does not naturally lubricate, so for anything to go in – strap-on, penis, toy, finger – lubricant is necessary. Stock up on a water-based lube and pop it on your nightstand within easy reach. Also – anal doesn’t have to be tried straight away with a partner – that’s why we’ve created this product. So people can get used to this sensation in the safety and comfort of their own home.

You do not have to douche before anal, it’s all down to personal preference. Poo is natural. If you are super worried about poop during anal, consider eating more fibrous meals (TikTok has lots of bottom tips) in the days beforehand – it means your bowel movements will be much more smooth. Pooing or douching a few hours before anal sex, rather than right before, is optimal!

If you’re wanting to try anal sex with a partner for the first time, talk about it before, set boundaries, and get protection. Before having anal sex with someone, talk about it.

What should be avoided?

I can’t emphasize this enough – anal sex, even the first-time, should be enjoyable. Don’t let anybody tell you otherwise. Far too often, people with vulvas are taught to accept painful sex. Everything should be peachy, not ouchy!

Avoid going straight to butt play, instead build arousal up with lots of outercourse! You want to feel relaxed, so ease yourself into it.

Do you have any tips for a pleasurable experience for both/all involved?

For partnered anal sex, as well as everything already mentioned, take it slow, even slower – really tune into and listen to your bodies. Communicate throughout, one of the sexiest things people mentioned during our product development of The Neighbor was the intimacy that comes with constantly talking and telling each other how it feels.

Finally, the experience doesn’t stop once you stop anal stimulation. Aftercare is soooo important. Check in with each other, talk about what was enjoyable or not so – the first time might not be what you imagined, and talking about it can help set precedent for the next time you want to play.