So, you’re looking to spice up your kissing game? Awesome!
One of the really cool things about kissing is that – just like with anything intimate – there’s always more to explore. Maybe you’ve got a few go-to moves when making out. Or perhaps you’re a bit newer to figuring out how to kiss someone. Either way, there are definitely techniques you probably haven’t tried yet. And honestly, if we’re talking about trial and error, experimenting with kissing is a pretty fun way to spend your time.
And hey, if you’re stressing about how to be a good kisser, let’s clear something up right away: There’s no such thing as a “bad kisser.” There are definitely some bad kisses out there, and we’ve all been there or will be. (Picture this: I once had a super wet kiss come out of nowhere, and I full-on laughed in the person’s face. Not my proudest moment, even though I’m sharing it online right now.)
Basically, everyone has those slightly awkward moments. Don’t sweat it! Kissing is supposed to be fun, and if you’re really aiming for a PhD in kissing, you could actually take a Masterclass. (Seriously, they have a Masterclass on how to kiss.) For the rest of us, we’ve gathered some awesome tips on how to kiss better (hint: it involves more than just your lips!), and also some common advice you should totally ignore (looking at you, aggressive tongue). But first, let’s talk about what happens before your lips lock. Setting the stage is key for a great smooch.
In this guide on how to kiss, we’ll cover:
Kissing Advice 101: Building Up to a Kiss
If you remember one thing about making out from this guide, let it be this: surprise, out-of-nowhere kisses are usually not the best move.
What you do in the moments leading up to a kiss is super important. It’s your chance to set the mood, and those pre-kiss actions can steer things in a playful, fun direction or something a little more intense. It’s also your time to (clearly, verbally) check the vibe, making sure you get an enthusiastic yes from the person you want to kiss. Just because you’ve been imagining their lips all date long and it’s time to say goodbye, doesn’t mean you should “be assertive” and “just go for it.” Consent, always, is crucial, and trust me, you’ll both have a much better time with a kiss that builds up rather than one that catches someone off guard. (Remember my laughing story? Exactly.)
So before you just jump in with a wet kiss, let the tension build. Keep eye contact, and maybe tilt your head a little. If you’re close to each other, lean in slightly. If they lean in too and seem comfortable, keep going until you can feel each other’s body heat without actually touching; that can really build anticipation. Pay attention to their body language, and yours. Have your voices gotten softer? Have their eyes glanced down at your lips? And, speaking of lips, have you seen them gently biting theirs? Give yourselves some time to enjoy that tension before you actually kiss.
