Part of: Sex Doll FAQ: Common Questions Answered
In this article 9 sections
A plain definitionTypesMaterialsTermsHistory and contextBuying, law and careLooking at examplesKey takeawaysFrequently asked questions- Adult-proportioned figure for adult use
- Usually TPE or silicone with a skeleton
- Formats: full, mini, torso, head
- Different from inflatable products
- Legal rules vary by country

A plain definition
A sex doll, also called a love doll, is a figure shaped like an adult human body, built from soft polymer such as TPE or silicone around a metal or plastic skeleton so it can hold poses. It is sold for adult sexual use, companionship or collecting. We cover adult-proportioned dolls only (policy).
Types
| Type | Description | Guide |
|---|---|---|
| Full-size | Complete adult body | life-size dolls |
| Mini, petite | Shorter, lighter, adult-proportioned | mini dolls |
| Torso | Partial body | torsos |
| Head or lower body | Partial forms | heads, lower-body |
| Male and trans | Male-bodied or mixed | male dolls, trans dolls |
| AI and tech-enabled | Doll plus app or hardware | AI guide |
Materials
TPE is soft and cheaper, silicone firmer and more durable, hybrids combine them (material guide). Inflatable, vinyl and latex products are different and cheaper (comparison).
Terms
"Love doll" is largely interchangeable (sex doll vs love doll); see the glossary.
History and context
Sex dolls have a long and murky history. See timeline, industry trends, brothels and film and TV; our article history of sex dolls goes further.
Buying, law and care
If you are curious about buying see buying guide; for law see legal guide; for care see care guide.
Looking at examples
Retailers such as Joy Love Dolls show formats and options side by side.

See formats and materials listed at Joy Love Dolls to get a sense of the range.
View at Joy Love Dolls →Affiliate linkKey takeaways
- Adult-proportioned figure, usually TPE or silicone
- Several formats, from full-size to torso
- Distinct from inflatable products
Frequently asked questions
01What is a sex doll made of?
Typically TPE or silicone over a metal or plastic skeleton.
02Is a love doll different?
The terms are largely interchangeable.
03Are inflatable dolls the same?
No. They are made of different materials and are far less durable.
04Are sex dolls legal?
In many places, but rules vary. See our legal guide.