We all want to be attractive, confident, and even admired. But before you go splashing out on a new wardrobe, a million beauty products, or signing up for a punishing gym workout, you might want to hear this. There are scientifically-backed ways you can boost your attractiveness. Intrigued? Let’s look beyond the service and that bold lipstick.
1. Wear the Color Red
It might sound like a dating cliché, but there’s some hard science behind the idea that red equals romance. A study by the University of Rochester found that men are more attracted to women wearing red because it subconsciously signals passion, power, and fertility. The same applies to guys; women ranked men in red as the most alluring. The concept is rooted in our primal instincts—red makes you stand out in a crowded bar or on a first date.
2. Mess Ups Make You More Alluring
Perfection can be intimidating, so use the “pratfall effect” to your advantage. Harvard psychologist Elliot Aronson discovered the “pratfall” phenomenon, which states that when highly competent people make mistakes or are vulnerable, they are more attractive. So, when you spilled your drink at dinner, it might not have been a disaster; it might have made you more desirable. A person who seems perfect but makes slip-ups is considered more relatable, human, and attractive in someone else’s eyes. Phew!
3. Use Vanilla or Lavender Scents
Forget expensive colognes and perfumes; science shows that the scents of vanilla and lavender make people more attracted to you. A study from the Smell & Taste Treatment and Research Foundation found that these scents increase blood flow to the areas of the brain linked to attraction. Vanilla’s sweet smell and warmth are comforting, while lavender’s calming scent makes you more approachable. Ditch the overpowering sandalwood and intoxicate with these unsung heroes.
4. Speak Less, Listen More
While many assume we must be a witty, charming conversationalist to win people over, research suggests otherwise. A study from Harvard shows that people love talking about themselves (we’re not sure we needed a professor to tell us that one), so when someone actively listens instead of dominating the conversation, they are wildly attractive. Ask more questions, be genuinely curious, and let others go to town on the sharing. You become instantly likable and attractive and never worry about running out of things to say.
5. Get a Dog
This one will delight animal lovers. A study published in the Journal of Evolutionary Psychology found that men who had dogs were more attractive and dateable. Having a dog sends the message that you’re loving, nurturing, responsible, and emotionally available. So grab your fur baby and head to the dog park; you will draw in the admirers as you wreak of long-term potential.
6. Make Eye Contact
As it turns out, making eye contact isn’t just polite; it’s sexy. Research from Dartmouth College showed that locking eyes with someone stimulates the same areas of the brain as when you’re rewarded. But don’t make it too intense, as excessive eye contact can feel creepy. Linger just long enough to show interest and then casually glance away. You’ll leave them weak at the knees.
7. Use Mirroring to Establish Instant Connection
If you want someone to feel instantly comfortable like they’ve known you forever, mirror their body language. This psychological trick, known as “mirroring,” taps into the brain’s mirror neurons, the same ones that trigger empathy. When you subtly copy someone’s posture or gestures, they subconsciously feel a connection with you. Be cool about it—there’s no need to go full mime; just let the similarities happen naturally.
8. Go to Bed
Getting a good night’s sleep—we need 7-9 hours for our mental and physical health—is not just good for you; it’s a turn-on for others. A study from Sweden’s Karolinska Institute rated people who look well-rested as more attractive, healthier, and approachable. When you’re sleep-deprived, your face shows more signs of aging and stress, so yes, getting your beauty sleep is real.
9. Laughter is Sexy
Laughter and having a sense of humor are the secret sauce to attraction. Research shows that women are more attracted to men who make them laugh, and men are more drawn to women who laugh at their jokes. When you laugh and experience that feel-good vibe, it releases dopamine in the brain—those happy hormones that make you feel high.
10. Embrace the Power of Touch
It’s scientifically proven that casual touch— a tap on the shoulder or brushing someone’s arm—immediately creates a sense of intimacy and connection. A French study found that men who lightly touched a woman’s arm were more successful in getting her phone number. Touch releases oxytocin, the bonding hormone, which makes other people feel closer to you. Just don’t overdo it.
11. Stand Up Straight
Good posture makes you more attractive, so stand up straight. A University of California study found that expansive body language (think open arms, standing tall) makes you come off as more confident and dominant (in a good way). In the wild, animals who are bigger, stronger, and flex their physique are perceived as more powerful, and the same goes for humans. Straighten up, spread out, own your space, and make a point to work on your core.
12. Be More Altruistic
Forget projecting bad-boy vibes—doing good deeds is hot. Research from the University of Liverpool shows that altruism is one of the most attractive traits, especially when genuine. Whether volunteering, giving someone a shoulder to cry on, or just being kind, people are drawn to those who show empathy and compassion. It signals that you’re caring and will be a loving, supportive, equal partner.
13. Get a Little Sun
A golden glow does make a difference. A study published in the Evolutionary Psychology journal deemed people with a slight tan healthier and more attractive. We’re not suggesting sunbathing, and you should wear sunscreen daily. But getting outside to get some vitamin D increases melanin, which makes your skin tone look more vibrant, boosts your energy levels, and makes you feel happier and more positive.
14. Talk with Your Hands
Here’s an odd one—gesturing while you speak can make you more engaging and attractive. Researchers from Colgate University found that people who use hand gestures are more charismatic and confident. It shows enthusiasm and helps convey your emotions better, and people will flock to you. So, next time you’re engaged in conversation, let your hands do some of the talking.
15. Stay Mysterious
Here’s permission not to spill all your secrets at once. Research from the University of Virginia found that people are more attracted to those who are a little mysterious. When someone doesn’t know everything about you, it creates intrigue, and they want to learn more. Be a little elusive—not in a game-playing way, but in a way that makes others curious.
