Has the kissing waned in your relationship? Are you more the “air kiss” than “actual kiss” type when greeting your friends? Do you cringe when you see your aunt coming in for a big kiss at family functions? It may be time to pucker up!
Turns out that kissing — even your family and friends — has loads of mental and physical benefits that make getting your smooch on totally worth it. Here’s what the science says.
Kissing triggers your brain to release a cocktail of chemicals that leave you feeling oh so good by igniting the pleasure centers of the brain.
Oxytocin is a chemical linked to pair bonding. The rush of oxytocin released during kissing causes feelings of affection and attachment. Kissing your partner can improve relationship satisfaction and may be especially important in long-term relationships.
The effect of kissing on your cortisol levels may potentially improve your feelings of self-worth.
Speaking of cortisol, kissing also helps lower cortisol levels and reduce stress. A 2023 research review notes that affectionate touch, such as kissing and hugging, is protective against stress.
Stress management includes how well you handle stress and anxiety. There’s nothing quite like a kiss and some affection to help calm you. Oxytocin
The release of oxytocin during kissing also causes your blood vessels to dilate, improving your blood flow. This helps to reduce your blood pressure.
The effect of dilated blood vessels and increased blood flow can help relieve cramps, like muscle cramps or menstrual cramps. Getting your smooch on when you’re in the throes of a bad period might just be worth it.
Kiss the “not tonight, dear, I have a headache” excuse goodbye. That dilation of blood vessels and lowered blood pressure can also relieve headaches. Kissing may also help prevent headaches by reducing stress, a known trigger.
You may be familiar with germs that can spread via kissing. But swapping spit can boost your immunity by exposing you to new germs that strengthen your immune system. Research suggests that couples who kiss frequently share the same microbiota in their saliva and on their tongues.
A 2023 study found that people who engaged in kissing at least seven times a month had better cholesterol and triglyceride levels than those who kissed less frequently. Researchers acknowledged that the effect was indirect, but still significant.
Keeping your cholesterol in check lowers your risk of several diseases, including heart disease and stroke.
Kissing stimulates your salivary glands, increasing saliva production. Saliva lubricates your mouth, aids in swallowing, and helps keep food debris from sticking to your teeth, which can help prevent tooth decay and cavities.
While there’s not much scientific evidence to suggest that kissing prevents cavities, research is ongoing.
Turns out the 1964 classic “The Shoop Shoop Song” was right — it’s in his kiss! A 2023 study found that participants who placed more importance on the first kiss when selecting a romantic partner reported greater satisfaction in their relationships.
Romantic kissing leads to sexual arousal. Older research suggests that kissing is often the driving force behind a female’s decision to have sex with someone, and males often use kissing to increase the likelihood of sex.
Saliva also contains testosterone, a sex hormone that plays a role in sexual arousal. The longer and more passionately you kiss, the more testosterone gets released.
The act of kissing can involve anywhere from 2 to 34 facial muscles. Kissing often and using these muscles on the regular acts like a workout for your face — and neck if you’re really into it!
This may help firm up your facial muscles. Working out your facial muscles can also stimulate collagen production, which contributes to firmer, younger-looking skin.
Using those facial muscles also burns calories. You can burn anywhere from 2 to 26 calories per minute, depending on how passionately you kiss. This may not be the best workout regimen if you’re trying to lose weight, but it sure beats sweating on the elliptical trainer!
Kissing, regardless of whom you’re kissing, can have a positive impact on your emotional and physical well-being.
Kissing makes both parties feel good about themselves and can help strengthen relationships of all kinds, so kiss and kiss often. It’s good for you!