Can you masturbate too much? Sexperts weigh in on a healthy self-love routine

At times, we're guilty of overindulging. But when it comes to self-love, is there ever too much of a good thing? Is it actually possible to masturbate too much?

Considering solo sex has its benefits—including a strengthened immune system and a better night's sleep, not to mention women's most satisfying orgasms—why not play around with the best app-controlled vibrators? How are we supposed to determine what works best for our bodies if we don't? 

"Remind yourself that masturbating is healthy," says sex blogger and influencer Julieta Chiara. "If you do it often or once in a blue moon, there is no 'standard' to masturbation, and enjoying a healthy relationship with yourself is the most important aspect."

Here are a few things to note to ensure that your self-love routine is nothing short of satisfying, just as it should be. 

• Hands-free vibrators and sex toys: a lazy girl’s guide to orgasm
• What exactly is orgasm anxiety and how do you deal with it?
• TikTok users attempt to 'coregasm' but is this satisfying workout possible?

If you are looking to play around, do what feels natural to you and remember that when it comes to finding pleasure and reaching peak bliss, it's all up to you. When the act becomes all-consuming, however, that's when to seek help. 

"A rule of thumb is to masturbate as much as you want as long as it 1. doesn't get in the way of your daily life, activities and relationships, and 2. doesn't injure you," Chiara adds. 

Meanwhile, the key to finding pleasure, according to sexologist Marla Renee Stewart, MA and sexpert for Lovers, is mixing things up.

"I suggest setting a date and time to really romance yourself and treat yourself well," Stewart recommends. "I would also say that if you like variety, try different toys, different positions and masturbating at different times of the day."

Is it possible to masturbate too much?

Should you go a bit overboard, there are ways to get your solo sex routine back on track so that you're feeling well and not experiencing any tenderness in your most sensitive spots.

"It's possible for frequent masturbation to cause skin irritation and sores. However, there are many ways you can quickly and safely treat this," says Josh Porter, sex and kink expert at Romantix. "Use plenty of lubricant while masturbating, as well as wear soft, loose-fitting, breathable clothing after to prevent further irritation. To treat the sore areas apply a fragrance-free moisturizer, petroleum jelly or aloe vera to the affected area."

(Psst: have lube questions? We have the answers.)

Stewart recommends taking a nice bath with Epsom salt should your skin feel a bit irritated.

What is mindful masturbation?

If you are feeling a bit out of sorts in the self-love department and can't quite get back on track, use this as an opportunity to be present without worrying about an end goal. 

"Mindful masturbation might involve touching yourself for pleasure without thinking about how you look or sound, " says sex therapist and We-Vibe spokesperson Jess O'Reilly, Ph.D. "You might take your time and touch yourself in a way that feels pleasurable but isn’t intended to lead to orgasm. You might even delay orgasm [edging] by slowing down or reducing the tension to prolong the experience." 

O'Reilly continues: "Pay attention to how you feel in your body. What temperatures, textures and sensations do you experience?"

In essence, there is no right or wrong method to self-satisfaction—do whatever works well for you, provided it doesn't interfere with your daily lifestyle. While you're at it, be sure to familiarize yourself with the expert tips for how to clean sex toys. It's info you're going to need.