Physical attraction is complicated and influenced by many factors. However, research has identified certain physical features that women tend to find most attractive in men. In this article, we’ll explore the physical traits that make a man desirable and explain why these features are so appealing.
Facial Features
A man’s face and its shape play a big role in his attractiveness. Some facial features that are commonly considered attractive include:
Strong Jawline
A strong, square jawline is often associated with masculinity and dominance. Evolutionary psychologists theorize that this preference evolved because a robust jaw and wider cheeks indicate higher levels of testosterone, which influences traits like fertility and strength. So a defined jawline signals that a man has good genes.
Heavy Brow
A pronounced brow ridge and deeply set eyes can increase perceptions of masculinity and dominance as well. Like the jawline, this feature is influenced by testosterone and thus implies genetic fitness.
High Cheekbones
High, prominent cheekbones that are wide and vertically narrow represent good bone structure and forward facial growth. This indicates a man was well-nourished as a child and faced less exposure to diseases and toxins that could impair development.
Strong Chin
A man’s chin shape also affects his attractiveness. Research indicates that women prefer male faces with broader chins, as they are a signal of testosterone. Additionally, a firm, forward-projecting chin implies psychological strength and assertiveness.
Eyes
Eyes are central to facial attractiveness. Some of the most appealing eye features in men are:
Hunter Eyes
“Hunter eyes” refers to eyes that have a neutral or downward tilt. This eye shape creates an intense, brooding gaze that is considered very masculine and desirable.
Positive Canthal Tilt
A slight upward tilt at the outer corners of the eyes produces a positive canthal tilt. This gives the eyes a friendlier appearance that women perceive as more approachable and attractive than down-turned eyes.
Deep-Set Eyes
Eyes that are deeply set in the face with pronounced brow ridges are rated as very masculine. The contrast between the recessed eyes and protruding brow signifies high testosterone.
Dark Eyes
Though eye color preferences are individual, many women are drawn to men with dark brown or black eyes. Darker eyes can appear more mysterious and intimate.
Lips
A man’s lips and mouth area also influence his attractiveness:
Fuller Lips
Whereas thin lips convey meanness, full lips in men are perceived as warm, sensual, and attractive. Women associate fuller lips in males with increased sexual virility and testosterone levels.
Wide Smile
A genuine smile that reveals the teeth and creates laugh lines at the eyes and mouth corners reads as more empathetic and approachable. Smiles that engage the eye area are also rated as most attractive.
Facial Symmetry
Men with symmetrical faces are consistently judged as more desirable. Facial symmetry indicates developmental stability, reinforcing impressions of health and good genes.
Hair
Hair too affects how attractive a man appears:
Dark Hair
Like with eyes, women tend to prefer men with darker hair colors like black, brown, and even salt-and-pepper gray. Darker hair equates to higher testosterone levels that signal virility and strength.
Moderate Length
Hair that is kept to a short to medium length is perceived as most attractive. Very short buzz cuts or shaved heads and extremely long hair both reduce a man’s desirability unless he has very striking features otherwise.
Full Head of Hair
A full head of voluminous, thick hair reads as youthful and vigorous. Male pattern baldness or significant hair loss can detract from attractiveness as it makes a man appear older.
Well-Groomed
Hair that appears clean, neatly combed, and professionally styled improves attractiveness tremendously. Grooming and self-care indicate health and attention to detail.
Body Features
When it comes to the body rather than just the face, women also gravitate toward particular traits:
Height
Women are generally drawn to men who are taller than them. Being taller increases perceptions of dominance, strength, and status. However, extremely tall stature (over 6’5″) can sometimes reduce attractiveness.
| Height Range | Perceived Attractiveness Level |
|---|---|
| 5’9″ – 6’3″ | Most attractive |
| 5’7″ – 5’9″ | Above average attractiveness |
| 5’5″ – 5’7″ | Average attractiveness |
| Under 5’5″ | Below average attractiveness |
| Over 6’5″ | Slightly reduced attractiveness |
Mesomorph Body Type
The mesomorph body type falls in the middle of the ectomorph and endomorph types. Mesomorphs tend to be muscular with wide shoulders, narrow waists, and attractive V-shaped bodies. This athletic build strikes an optimal balance between strength and agility that women favor.
Shoulder-to-Waist Ratio
An inverted triangle shape produced by broad shoulders and a narrower waist is a cue of physical dominance and strength. Women respond favorably to a shoulder-to-waist ratio of 1.6 or higher.
Muscularity
Visible muscular definition achieved through exercise, sports, and an active lifestyle is highly sought after. Muscles signal body strength, youthfulness, vitality, and discipline.
Deep Voice
A lower-pitched, resonant voice in men is judged as more attractive. Deeper voices correlate to higher testosterone and convey dominance and confidence.
Scent
Natural body odor and pheromones indicating genetic compatibility also unconsciously factor into assessments of physical appeal. The right masculine scent can spark attraction and desire in women.
Behavioral Traits and Skills
Beyond physical characteristics, certain attractive behavioral traits, skills, and abilities include:
Social Intelligence
The ability to read social cues, sense emotions, and interact comfortably with others indicates emotional investment and intelligence women seek.
Athleticism
Physical competencies like strength, speed, agility, and coordination in sports, outdoor activities, and fitness pursuits imply good genes and developmental health.
Music Ability
Musical talent and creativity tap into women’s preferences for men capable of producing art, self-expression, and imaginative thinking.
Humor
The ability to make women laugh signals intelligence, creativity, and social skills. Humor lightens moods and attracts romantic interest.
Storytelling
Weaving compelling narratives highlights personality, intellect, and communication abilities that hold attention and attraction.
Good Partner Traits
While physical features draw initial interest, perceived compatibility as a romantic partner drives lasting attraction. Traits like:
Dependability
Being trustworthy, responsible, and reliable provides feelings of safety and shows care.
Intelligence
Aptitude for learning and problem solving indicates an ability to navigate life’s challenges.
Ambition
Goal-orientedness and determination demonstrate capability to achieve growth and provide.
Thoughtfulness
Noticing and meeting a partner’s needs makes women feel valued in relationships.
Openness
Expressiveness and emotional availability allow intimacy and bonding to develop.
Conclusion
Male attractiveness is multifaceted. While strong facial features, fit physiques, and indicators of high testosterone hold instinctive appeal, behavior, skills, and partner potential also factor in. Ultimately, a blend of physical and personal attributes makes for the most desirable, compatible mate.
Attractiveness is also subjective and variable across cultures and individuals. Not all women want the stereotypical masculine, macho man. Shared interests, values, and chemistry between unique individuals generate connection and beauty.
Rather than focusing on specific traits, the most attractive men have self-confidence, balanced mental and physical health, and positive relationship skills. By cultivating inner qualities, men can build satisfying bonds and relationships with a compatible partner.