When getting into the back seat, some car models have an assist grip that looks like a train strap. When this grip is released, it returns smoothly to its original position because it has a damper. Similarly, the glove box opens quietly and slowly again due to the effect of a damper, creating a high-quality image. There are two types of dampers -- air and oil; glove boxes use an air damper while the assist grip uses an oil damper.
Basically, dampers are like a hypodermic syringe with a sliding rod. When opening a damped lid, air can only enter slowly so the rod moves slowly and the lid opens slowly.

In the oil damper used in an assist grip, the damper contains viscous oil; when the grip is released, it returns slowly to the original position due to the damping effect of the oil.
These dampers are also used non-automotive applications, such as the slowly closing flap of drink vending machines.