In moments when life feels intense, many adults are discovering a surprising way to ease their stress: pacifiers designed for grown-ups. This growing movement is particularly vibrant in China, where young professionals are choosing adult-sized pacifiers over traditional relaxation methods like sleep supplements, mindfulness apps, or even smoking. On popular online marketplaces like Taobao and JD.com, these products are experiencing a surge in demand, with prices varying widely from $1.40 to $70.
Vendors promote these pacifiers as effective tools for better sleep, stress management, and even smoking cessation, with some reporting monthly sales in the thousands. Enthusiasts share that the benefits are tangible. “When work piles on pressure, using a pacifier brings back a soothing sense of childhood calm,” one user shared. However, dental professionals raise concerns. Dr. Tang Caomin, a dentist from Sichuan, advises that extended use may lead to dental misalignment, jaw discomfort, or restricted breathing during sleep, posing potential health risks.
This trend has crossed borders, gaining traction on TikTok, where American users proudly display their pacifiers during daily routines like commuting, studying, or taking work breaks. Some highlight their usefulness for managing ADHD symptoms or reducing stress, while others acknowledge developing a reliance on them. Meanwhile, skeptics recommend alternatives such as chewing gum or enjoying lollipops for similar oral comfort.
Psychologists view this phenomenon as part of a broader pattern: young adults navigating the challenges of modern life and finding solace in nostalgic, childlike behaviors. Comparable trends, such as “Adulting 101” workshops that teach essential life skills, reflect similar struggles with contemporary pressures. For many, the journey of adulthood feels daunting — and for some, a pacifier offers a simple, comforting escape.
