Here's How to Kiss Like a Pro — 12 People Weigh In With Their Best Tips

Updated on 12/27/2019 at 6:30 PM

When it comes to your kissing style, it can vary based on the person and the situation. Of course, some people may like a more intense smooch, while others might go for a gentle peck, and your kissing style might work swimmingly with one person who's similar to you but be a painfully awkward experience with someone else. Besides, we've probably all been there before, right? The good news: there are a few kissing techniques that are typically well-received by most people! Here are a few tips from real people to try out the next time you're leaning in for a little (or major) makeout sesh. Plus, the added perk is kissing is actually great for your health, too!

Don't "Smash" Mouths

"To be honest, my biggest one is, like, don't try to 'smash mouth.' Slow and gentle is so much sexier than movie-style slamming."

— Cathy

Start Slow

"Start slow and gentle and build up the momentum along the way. Then that intensity builds and you can get into a deeper, sexier kiss."

— Vanessa

Use Your Tongue Well

"Very lightly, barely touching, move your tongue across the ridges of the roof of your partner's mouth."

— Laney

Suck on the Lower Lip

"Gently suck on your lover's lower lip, as it's super hot and seems animalistic."

— Hope

Hold the Nape of the Neck

"Lightly (and I mean VERY lightly, or it could be painful and awkward, lol) hold the nape of the neck for a romantic touch."

— Darcy

Nibble on the Lips

"Nibble on their lips, but softly. You don't want to bite them, which is really not sexy and a big turn off. A slight nibble shows you need them."

— Aleesia

Move Your Tongue in and Out

"Slowly move your tongue in and out — tease them. The teasing is a fun game and makes the buildup even hotter. Good for deep kissing."

— Jenn

Pause and Bite Their Lip.

Kiss Elsewhere, Too.

Play With the Hair

"As you're kissing and you're right in the heat of it, gently, but with a little of a firm tug, pull your partner's hair that's by the back of the neck since those hairs are really sensitive. Pulling the scalp is hot."

— Dana

Kiss and Rub Fingers up the Back

"As you're kissing your partner, trace your fingers up and down the back. It feels really good and brings that chilling type of sensation to go with the steamy kiss."

— Anna

Follow What Your Partner Is Doing

"Seems obvious, but you should mimic your partner in the kiss if you want to try to have a good kiss. If they're going real slow and aren't using tongue, don't jam your tongue inside their mouth."

— Andrew