So, you’re looking to level up your kissing game? Awesome! One of the most exciting aspects of kissing is that, like many intimate acts, there’s always room for exploration and improvement. Whether you’re a seasoned pro with a signature makeout style or relatively new to the art of kissing, there are bound to be techniques you haven’t yet tried. And let’s be honest, experimenting with kissing is a pretty enjoyable way to spend your time. This How To Kiss Guide is here to help.
And if you’re worried about being a bad kisser, let’s clear something up right away: there’s no such thing as a bad kisser, only bad kisses. We’ve all experienced (or will experience) those awkward moments. The key is not to dwell on them. Kissing should be fun! If you’re serious about mastering the art of kissing, you could even consider a Masterclass. Seriously, there’s a Masterclass on how to French kiss! But for the rest of us, we’ve compiled some valuable advice on how to kiss better (hint: it involves more than just your lips), as well as some common pitfalls to avoid (which definitely involve your tongue). But first, let’s discuss what comes before the lip-lock: setting the stage for your smooch.
Kissing 101: Building the Anticipation
If there’s one golden rule to take away from this how to kiss guide, it’s this: surprise, “attack” kisses are a no-go.
The moments leading up to a kiss are crucial. They set the mood, whether you want a playful and fun vibe or something hotter and heavier. This is also the time to check the vibe (clearly and verbally) to ensure you have an enthusiastic “yes” from the person you’re about to kiss. Just because you’ve been fantasizing about their lips all night doesn’t give you the right to “be assertive” and “just go for it.” Consent is always key, and a kiss that’s built up will always be better than one that catches someone off guard.
Before you dive in for a wet one, let the tension build. Maintain direct eye contact and tilt your head slightly. If you’re standing or sitting close, lean in closer. If they reciprocate and seem comfortable, lean in until you can feel each other’s body heat without actually touching. This can significantly increase the anticipation. Pay attention to their (and your) body language. Has your voice dropped? Have they glanced at your lips? Have they been biting their lip? Allow yourselves time to enjoy the tension before acting on it.
