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10 Science-Backed Ways for Men to be More Attractive to Women (With Research Studies)

Many men wonder what they can do to become more attractive to women. Here is what science says.

By Serena Published 3 years ago 7 min read

Many men wonder what they can do to become more attractive to women. While physical appearance does play a role, there are many other factors that contribute to a man’s overall attractiveness. In this article, we will explore 10 scientifically-backed ways for men to increase their appeal to the opposite sex.

1. Confidence

Confidence is one of the most attractive qualities a man can possess. Women are drawn to men who are self-assured and comfortable in their own skin. Studies have shown that confident men are perceived as more attractive, and this can lead to greater success in dating and relationships.

The study:

One study that shows how confidence is an attractive quality in men was conducted by researchers at the University of British Columbia and published in the journal “Psychological Science” in 2011.

In the study, researchers had 96 male and female participants rate the attractiveness of people in photos. They found that men who displayed confident body language and facial expressions were rated as more attractive by women.

The researchers also conducted a follow-up study in which they asked male participants to strike either a confident or unconfident pose before being photographed. They found that men who posed confidently were rated as more attractive by women than those who posed unconfidently.

2. Sense of Humor

A good sense of humor is another trait that women find attractive in men. Studies have shown that humor can increase perceived attractiveness, and it can also serve as a way to break the ice and establish a connection with a woman.

The study:

A study was conducted by researchers at the University of North Carolina and published in the journal “Evolution and Human Behavior” in 2009.

In the study, researchers had 200 undergraduate students (100 men and 100 women) complete questionnaires about their ideal romantic partner. They found that both men and women rated a sense of humor as one of the most important traits they looked for in a partner.

The researchers also conducted a follow-up study in which they had participants watch videos of individuals engaging in a conversation. They found that individuals who displayed a good sense of humor were rated as more attractive, regardless of their physical appearance.

3. Kindness

Kindness is an underrated quality, but it is one that can make a big difference when it comes to attracting women. Research has shown that women are more likely to be attracted to men who are kind and compassionate.

The study:

A study was conducted by researchers at the University of Guelph and published in the journal “Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin” in 2015.

In the study, researchers had 800 participants (400 men and 400 women) rate the importance of various traits in a potential romantic partner. They found that both men and women rated kindness as one of the most important traits they looked for in a partner.

The researchers also conducted a follow-up study in which they had participants rate the attractiveness of individuals in photos, some of whom were described as being kind and compassionate, while others were described as being competitive and self-centered. They found that individuals who were described as kind and compassionate were rated as more attractive, regardless of their physical appearance.

4. Physical Fitness

While physical appearance is not everything, taking care of your body can make you more attractive to women. Being physically fit can signal health and vitality, and it can also help boost confidence and self-esteem.

The study:

A study was conducted by researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles and published in the journal “Evolution and Human Behavior” in 2007.

In the study, researchers had 120 female participants rate the attractiveness of men based on photographs of them. The researchers manipulated the photographs to make the men appear either more or less physically fit. They found that women rated the more physically fit men as more attractive.

5. Social Skills

Having strong social skills can make a man more attractive to women. Being able to hold a conversation, listen actively, and engage with others can make a man stand out in a crowd and demonstrate his value as a potential partner.

The study:

One such study was conducted by researchers at the University of Kansas and published in the journal “Evolutionary Psychology” in 2012.

In the study, researchers had 128 male and female participants interact with each other in small groups, and then rate each other on various personality traits, including social skills. They found that men who were rated as having better social skills were also rated as more attractive by women.

Another study published in the journal “Personal Relationships” in 2014 found that men who were able to effectively communicate their emotions and listen to their partner were perceived as more attractive by women. The study involved 60 couples who were asked to rate each other on various personality traits, including communication skills.

6. Intelligence

Intelligence is another quality that many women find attractive in men. Studies have shown that women tend to be more attracted to men who are intelligent and have a good sense of humor.

The study:

One such study was conducted by researchers at the University of Western Australia and published in the journal “Intelligence” in 2009.

In the study, researchers had 105 male and female participants rate the attractiveness of opposite-sex faces based on photographs. They found that women rated intelligent-looking men as more attractive, but men did not rate intelligent-looking women as more attractive.

Another study published in the journal “Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin” in 2010 found that women preferred men who were intelligent and creative. The study involved 105 female participants who were shown profiles of men with varying levels of intelligence and creativity, and were then asked to rate their attractiveness.

7. Good Grooming

Taking care of your appearance can also increase your attractiveness to women. Good grooming, including regular haircuts, clean clothes, and good hygiene, can signal that you take pride in your appearance and are invested in making a good impression.

The study:

One such study was conducted by researchers at the University of Northumbria and published in the journal “Perception” in 2011.

In the study, researchers had 22 men and 22 women rate the attractiveness of opposite-sex faces based on photographs. They manipulated the photographs to show the same men with different levels of facial hair (clean-shaven, light stubble, heavy stubble, and full beard). They found that women rated men with light and heavy stubble as more attractive than those who were clean-shaven or had a full beard.

Another study published in the journal “Body Image” in 2016 found that men who were perceived as well-groomed and put-together were more attractive to women. The study involved 191 female participants who were shown photographs of men with varying degrees of grooming and styling, and were then asked to rate their attractiveness.

Furthermore, a study published in the journal “Evolution and Human Behavior” in 2020 found that men who were well-groomed and dressed in a sophisticated manner were rated as more attractive by women. The study involved 78 female participants who were shown photographs of men with varying levels of grooming and clothing style, and were then asked to rate their attractiveness.

8. Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence refers to the ability to understand and manage your own emotions, as well as the emotions of others. Men who possess emotional intelligence are often perceived as more attractive to women, as they are able to communicate effectively and navigate social situations with ease.

The study:

One such study was conducted by researchers at the University of Toronto and published in the journal “Emotion” in 2017.

In the study, researchers had 1,000 participants complete an online survey that assessed their emotional intelligence and their preferences for potential romantic partners. They found that women were more likely to prefer men who had higher emotional intelligence, as it was seen as a sign of greater empathy, understanding, and ability to communicate effectively.

9. Sense of Adventure

Women are often drawn to men who have a sense of adventure and are willing to try new things. This can signal confidence and a willingness to take risks, which can be appealing to women who are looking for a partner who is exciting and dynamic.

The study:

One such study was conducted by researchers at the University of Southampton and published in the journal “Personality and Individual Differences” in 2017.

In the study, researchers had 151 male and female participants rate the attractiveness of opposite-sex individuals based on photographs and a brief description of their personality traits. They found that women were more likely to rate men as attractive if they were described as having a sense of adventure, being open to new experiences, and being spontaneous.

10. Financial Stability

While not the most important factor, financial stability can also increase a man’s attractiveness to women. This can signal responsibility and the ability to provide for a partner and any future family.

The study:

One such study was conducted by researchers at the University of St. Andrews and published in the journal “Personality and Individual Differences” in 2013.

In the study, researchers had 600 male and female participants rate the attractiveness of opposite-sex individuals based on photographs and brief descriptions of their personal characteristics. They found that women were more likely to rate men as attractive if they were described as having financial stability, being successful in their career, and having the potential to provide for a family.

Another study published in the journal “Evolutionary Psychology” in 2014 found that women rated men who displayed cues of wealth, such as luxury cars and expensive watches, as more attractive. The study involved 128 male and female participants who were asked to rate the attractiveness of opposite-sex targets based on photographs of luxury items.

Conclusion

Becoming more attractive to women involves more than just physical appearance. By focusing on traits such as confidence, kindness, humor, and social skills, men can increase their appeal to the opposite sex. Additionally, taking care of your appearance, investing in your emotional intelligence, and cultivating a sense of adventure can all contribute to greater success in dating and relationships.

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About the Creator

Serena

Hi! I am a ✦25-year-old digital nomad✦ Writing about Remote Work, Personal Development, and Productivity.

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