A bizarre trend has taken social media by storm in China, as videos of adults using pacifiers have gone viral, generating both fascination and discomfort among viewers across the globe.
Typically associated with babies and toddlers, pacifiers are now being adopted by grown-ups in what is being dubbed the “adult pacifier” phenomenon. Participants claim the practice helps ease stress and anxiety, offering a sense of comfort and relaxation in the middle of fast-paced modern life.
On platforms like Douyin (China’s version of TikTok), Weibo, and Xiaohongshu, countless clips show adults calmly sucking on pacifiers—some while working, commuting, or even before sleep. The trend has sparked a wave of debate, with users divided between viewing it as a quirky form of self-care and branding it as childish or unsettling.
The adult pacifiers themselves are marketed specifically for this purpose. Made from medical-grade silicone or rubber, they are being sold widely on Chinese e-commerce sites such as Taobao and JD.com, with prices ranging from 10 to 500 yuan ($1.39 to $69.33). International platforms like Amazon are also offering similar products, with a five-pack retailing for approximately $25.
“This is more than a product—it’s a lifestyle choice,” said one online seller promoting adult pacifiers. “It reminds people of safety, of simpler times, and creates a calming sensation during stress.”
While some consumers are embracing the unusual coping mechanism, medical professionals are voicing concern over potential health risks. Dentists warn that prolonged use could lead to oral health issues including tooth misalignment, enamel wear, and jaw problems.
“Pacifiers may be comforting in the short term, but overuse can be harmful, especially for adults whose oral structure is fully developed,” said Dr. Liu Yuting, a dental specialist based in Shanghai. “There is also the issue of psychological dependency—where users may struggle to manage stress without such objects.”
According to a report published by The Cover, interest in adult pacifiers surged during China’s latest wave of workplace burnout and economic uncertainty, as individuals searched for novel ways to self-soothe. Mental health advocates, while sympathetic, have urged people to seek healthier, evidence-based coping strategies such as therapy, mindfulness, or physical activity.
Social media users remain divided. One user commented, “It’s weird but harmless. If it calms people down, why judge?” Another wrote, “I got second-hand embarrassment watching grown-ups sucking on pacifiers. Therapy exists!”
The adult pacifier trend is just the latest in a series of unconventional wellness trends emerging from Asia, joining the ranks of ‘silent retreats,’ ‘crying rooms,’ and now—pacifiers for adults.
Whether this trend will fade away or become a lasting niche remains to be seen. But for now, it’s a vivid reflection of a global generation seeking comfort in the most unexpected of places.
