The best things before a kiss involve good hygiene (fresh breath, soft lips), creating the right atmosphere (eye contact, leaning in), and a relaxed mindset, focusing on mutual connection rather than perfection. Have mints or gum handy, use lip balm, and avoid strong-smelling foods, but most importantly, look for cues like eye contact to know the moment is right and don't overthink the mechanics.
The 90/10 kissing rule, popularized by the movie Hitch, suggests that one person leans in 90% of the way for a kiss and pauses, allowing the other person to close the remaining 10%, which signals their consent and involvement, preventing it from feeling forced and creating anticipation. This technique gives the other person control, allowing them to either lean in for the kiss or pull away, indicating their comfort level.
Go in lips shut, close your eyes as you lean in, then lightly peck and recoil slightly, if they seem into it go in again, part your lips slightly and take either their upper or lower lip in between your own, and move them slightly apart and back together, puckering your lips as you draw them back together.
Most people can't focus on anything as close as a face at kissing distance so closing your eyes saves them from looking at a distracting blur or the strain of trying to focus. Kissing can also make us feel vulnerable or self-conscious and closing your eyes is a way of making yourself more relaxed.
But do you know what's the MOST important part of that kiss? Your breath. This is why it is important to learn how to have a kissable breath. If your breath is clean, fresh and even a little minty, that kiss will be memorable.
Some signs you're a bad kisser: Going too fast, lacking enthusiasm, poor technique, and bad breath are common indicators.
The "most intimate kiss" isn't one specific type, but rather a feeling defined by connection, often found in gentle gestures like the butterfly kiss (fluttering lashes) or a tender forehead/head kiss, which signifies deep care, or passionate actions like a neck kiss (showing desire) or a lingering, soulful French kiss, all enhanced by the right timing and setting for true intimacy.
Tips on Being a Good Kisser
10+ Types of Kisses Guys Like
The key to a good first kiss? Variety, and lots of it. Start off slow, but then make sure to vary both tempo and intensity as you continue to explore each other. You can also shift your head to vary the angle of your kiss, or take a break to kiss your partner's jawbone before diving right back in.
Say something like, “I really want to kiss you right now” or “I'm thinking about kissing you.” Speaking what you desire shows confidence and leadership. And it still preps her that you're going to plant one on her.
Keep your mouth soft and relaxed
Both a cranked-open jaw and a closed-mouth, hard pucker aren't the most pleasant to smooch. Keep your lips just-apart enough, allowing the kisses to be soft and deep, and keep your mouth relaxed. You want to see where the kiss takes you.
Don't …
Passionate kisses have health benefits
Stress reduction – kissing your partner, either tenderly or passionately, releases calming brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) that reduce stress levels and soothe the mind. Foreplay – deep kissing your partner can lead to sexual intercourse.
It's called the 'no kissing for three months' (or 90 days) rule. The title of the rule is exactly what it's about. Heide suggests that in order to create fulfilling and lasting relationships, you shouldn't show exclusivity towards the person you're dating. That includes kissing and sex.
Blood vessels dilate, breathing can deepen, cheeks flush and our pulse quickens. Kissing fosters the sensations we often describe when we are falling in love. In this way, a kiss can herald in a new romantic relationship. It can also solidify the strong bonds we share with family members and friends.
Pay attention to their body language, too. If they lean in close, wrap their arms around you, or caress you during the kiss, those are all good signs. They'll also probably want to keep the action going with more kisses, or try to hold each kiss for a long time.
Luckily, we've put together some quick tips on how to knock bad breath on the head so you can kiss with confidence!
Sensing the hubbub, the adrenal glands unleash adrenaline. Cue a pounding heart, heavy breathing, or sweaty palms. (If you two become a couple, kissing could eventually trigger an opposite effect—peace instead of passion.)
Use Mouthwash. Mouthwash can help you quickly freshen your breath. This quick fix works by killing the microorganisms inside your mouth that contribute to bad breath. The minty aroma also helps to temporarily cover up any underlying odours, like tobacco.