As far as I can see there is a few different aspects to gas mask kinks, each of these aspects can be completely removed from each other but they can also run alongside each other depending on the dynamics or the scene.
I think one of the main uses gas masks seem to have is that of objectifying or dehumanising the wearer. In a similar way to hoods but taking it a step further than that. Personally I have no feeling towards hoods, if my partner wanted me to wear one I would to please them. Although, at risk of contradicting myself, I quite like the idea of becoming just an object, a toy for him to use, purely for his pleasure and not mine. Sir has no interest in hoods at all, he likes to see my face, to see and judge my reactions.
I’d also guess that alongside the dehumanising factor is the additional element of humiliation, in the same way there is a humiliation aspect to dog masks for example. It goes beyond taking away someone’s face and turns it into something else.
Then you get those that use gas masks in post apocalyptic role play scenes, it has a certain steam punk feel about it. This, I have to say, does absolutely nothing for me whatsoever. I’m slightly surprised that Sir doesn’t go for this more as he has a love for comic books and all things geeky.
Finally there is the breath play aspect. Now this does have more an appeal to me, I love feeling his hand around my throat or his hand over my mouth, maybe it’s the ultimate control and the ultimate trust, I’m not really sure. I’m fairly certain there is also an element of sensory deprivation, which is incredibly hot, I just don’t think I could combine that with the feeling of claustrophobia though.
I’m a big fan of the phrase ‘never say never’ but I’m fairly certain gas masks are something that won’t be featuring in our play and I will remain unmasked.