Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so the saying goes, but scientific research shows that men are hardwired to be attracted to certain physical traits in women.

The male brain’s attraction to beauty is not just a matter of personal taste or cultural conditioning, but has biological roots that go back millions of years.

1. A Symmetrical Face is More Attractive

One of the most well-established findings in the science of attraction is that men are drawn to women with symmetrical faces. A symmetrical face has evenly spaced and proportioned features that create a pleasing and harmonious appearance.

Studies have shown that men rate women with symmetrical faces as more attractive, youthful, healthy, and feminine. While facial symmetry is a sign of good genes and health, it is unclear how much of the attraction to symmetry is conscious or unconscious.

2. The Hourglass Figure is a Sign of Fertility

Another physical trait that men find attractive in women is the hourglass figure. This curvy shape, where the waist is narrower than the hips and bust, is thought to be a sign of reproductive fitness and fertility.

A study published in the journal PLOS ONE found that men’s attraction to the hourglass figure is not purely a cultural phenomenon, but is rooted in biology. The research found that men in all cultures and backgrounds rate women with hourglass figures as more attractive than those with other body shapes.

3. Healthy Hair is a Sign of Good Health

A woman’s hair is often considered a symbol of her femininity and beauty. Men are attracted to women with a healthy, shiny, and thick head of hair because it is a sign of good health and vitality.

Research has found that hair quality and quantity can signal a woman’s age, health, nutrition, and fertility. For example, shinier hair may be associated with lower stress levels, while thicker hair may indicate higher testosterone and estrogen levels. In addition, hair is often seen as a visual cue for good hygiene and grooming habits.

4. Eyes that Sparkle are Sexy

Eye contact is an essential part of human communication and intimacy, and the eyes can be a powerful tool for attracting partners.

Studies have shown that men find women with large, round eyes that sparkle and have a well-defined limbal ring to be more attractive. A limbal ring is the dark line that separates the whites of the eyes from the iris, and it fades with age and poor health. A prominent limbal ring is a sign of youthfulness, health, and emotionality.

5. A Smiling Face is More Approachable

Smiling is a universal facial expression that signals positivity, friendliness, and confidence. A smiling face is more attractive than a neutral or frowning face, because it indicates approachability and warmth.

A study published in the journal Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin found that women who smiled more in their Facebook profile pictures were rated as more likable, trustworthy, and attractive by men than women who smiled less.

6. Outer Beauty is Linked to Inner Beauty

While physical beauty is often prioritized in attraction and relationships, it is not necessarily the most important factor in long-term satisfaction.

Research has found that men who are initially attracted to a woman’s physical appearance are more likely to stay with her if they also find her personality and character to be attractive. This is because outer beauty can be seen as a reflection of inner beauty, such as kindness, intelligence, humor, and compassion.

7. Attraction is Dynamic and Context-Dependent

Finally, it is important to note that attraction is not a fixed or static phenomenon, but is influenced by various factors such as time, context, culture, and personality.

For example, what one person finds attractive may not be attractive to another person, or may change over time. In addition, different situations and environments can alter how attractive someone appears to be, such as mood, lighting, clothing, and body language.

Moreover, people’s individual preferences and values can shape what qualities they find attractive in a partner, such as honesty, loyalty, ambition, and shared interests.

Conclusion

In summary, the male brain’s attraction to beauty is a complex and dynamic phenomenon that is influenced by biology, culture, and personal experience.

While men are generally drawn to physical traits such as a symmetrical face, hourglass figure, healthy hair, sparkling eyes, and a smiling face, these attributes are not the only factors that affect attraction. Inner beauty, such as personality and character, can also be a significant factor in attraction and long-term relationships. Ultimately, attraction is a deeply personal and subjective experience that varies between individuals and over time.