BDSM | Spankings
Spankings are a common form of impact play that can range from light, playful swats to intense disciplinary actions, depending on the dynamic and preferences between the Dom(me) and submissive. The type of implement used, the force behind each strike, and the submissive’s pain tolerance all affect the sensation and outcome of the spanking.
IMPLEMENTS
Hand
One of the most intimate and versatile spanking tools. The skin-on-skin contact allows for control over force and sensation. The hand can deliver anything from soft taps to firm slaps, creating a warm, reddened area on the skin but rarely leaving long-lasting marks. It’s often used to warm up the skin for heavier implements.
Paddle
A flat implement, typically made of wood, leather, or silicone. Paddles come in various sizes, some with holes to increase the sting. Wooden paddles provide a sharp, intense smack that can leave lasting redness and bruising, while leather paddles tend to offer a more thudding sensation. They can leave the skin deeply reddened and, depending on the intensity, can cause bruising.
Crop
A riding crop has a long handle with a small flap at the end. Crops create a quick, sharp sting with a precise point of impact. They often leave small welts or red marks and can be used for targeted spankings, making them ideal for focusing on specific areas of the body. Crops can escalate the pain level from mild to severe, depending on how they’re used.
Flogger
A flogger consists of multiple tails (or strands), typically made from leather, suede, or rubber. The impact of a flogger varies based on the material and the number of tails. It can be thuddy (causing a dull ache) or stingy (with sharp, biting sensations). Floggers tend to leave broad marks and can create a reddened area over the skin, but less bruising than other implements.
Whip
A single tail whip delivers a much sharper, more intense sting, making it one of the more severe impact tools. Whips can leave raised welts and, if used heavily, can even break the skin. The precision and intensity of a whip often require significant skill, as they can cause deeper, longer-lasting marks.
Cane
Typically made from rattan or bamboo, canes are slim and highly flexible. Caning is one of the most intense forms of impact play. It delivers a sharp, stinging pain that leaves very distinct marks — thin red lines or welts — along with the potential for deep bruising if used with force. Cane marks can last for days and serve as a visible reminder of the scene.
PAIN LEVELS
The pain experienced from a spanking is subjective and can vary based on factors such as the submissive’s pain threshold, the area being spanked, and the emotional context of the scene. For many, the initial sensation is a stinging or warming feeling that builds up to a more intense burn or deep ache as the spanking continues.
Light Spankings
These can be pleasurable, with just enough sting to excite without overwhelming the submissive. The pain level is mild, and the marks are often just a pink flush on the skin that fades quickly.
Moderate Spankings
With medium force, spankings begin to cross into a more painful range. A warm, red glow might linger on the skin, with occasional bruising, especially with paddles or floggers.
Heavy Spankings
Intense sessions involve significant force, leaving deep bruises, welts, and sometimes open skin depending on the tool used. Canes and whips used heavily can result in severe pain and long-lasting marks.
MARKS LEFT BEHIND
Redness
Most spankings will cause a visible red flush on the skin. This is more pronounced with hand spankings, paddles, and floggers and will fade within hours to a day.
Bruising
Bruises form when blood vessels beneath the skin are broken due to the impact. Paddles, canes, and heavy floggers can cause bruises, which can range from small and faint to large, dark areas that last several days to a week.
Welts
Raised, narrow lines or marks left from implements like whips, crops, or canes. These can be tender and swollen, lasting a few days, depending on the force used. Welts typically fade into bruises over time.
Blisters/Breaks in the Skin
Severe spankings, especially with whips and canes, can result in breaking the skin. While this isn’t always the goal and should be approached with caution, it can happen during intense sessions, leaving small cuts or blisters.
EMOTIONAL AND PHYSICAL AFTERCARE
Spankings can be physically and emotionally intense for both parties, which makes aftercare crucial. After the scene, soothing lotions can help with any lingering pain or marks. Some submissives may also need reassurance, cuddling, or quiet time to process the experience. Aftercare reinforces the bond and ensures the submissive feels safe, supported, and cared for after the intense stimulation.
