Love at first sight might be right in front of your eyes, according to experts. Often referred to as “the windows to the soul”, our eyes are believed to play a pivotal role in romance.
From lingering glances across a crowded room to meaningful eye contact, our eyes can communicate a myriad of emotions and show desire, trust, confidence, and interest. Neil Lard, an optometrist at Pure Optical, explained: “Eyes are among the first features people notice. They express feelings, create bonds, and foster trust-all crucial for love and relationships.”
He added: “Meaningful eye contact shows genuine interest and emotional engagement, making it an important element in both new and long-term relationships.” The eye specialist shared his top tips for using your eyes in the quest for romance this Valentine’s Day.
Master the 50/70 rule
According to experts, the aim is to maintain eye contact 50% of the time when talking to somebody. Then, as you’re listening to the other person, it’s important to give 70% eye contact.
Doing this allows for the perfect balance between confidence and approachability. Giving someone eye contact throughout a conversation is a key way to show them that you’re actively engaged in what they’re saying.
Smile with your eyes
The warmth of a genuine smile can be reflected in your eyes. It’s thought that a genuine smile, creating subtle creases around your eyes, enhances your authenticity and trustworthiness.
The triangle gaze
This “effortless” tip is a key to flirtation and has been cited as the ultimate way to make someone fall for you. Experts suggest to those looking for love to “flirt effortlessly by shifting your gaze between your partner’s eyes and lips in a slow, triangular pattern.”
Hold eye contact for three seconds
It’s thought that prolonged eye contact, held for at least three seconds, can signal interest and confidence without feeling awkward. Any longer than this, especially with someone you have just met, can become uncomfortable.
According to CooperVision, prolonged eye contact has been thought to release phenylethylamine, a chemical responsible for feelings of attraction. As well as this, it’s assumed to release oxytocin, which is considered to be the love chemical.
Blink naturally
Another tip for creating the most lustful eye contact is to avoid staring. This means you maintain a natural blink rate, which makes you appear relaxed and engaged.
However, tired and bloodshot eyes can give off an entirely different message, and so specialist optometrist Neil Lard advised that you do four things to take care of your eyes. Lard advises that you hydrate your eyes, and drinking plenty of water helps keep your eyes looking bright. Another suggestion is to limit screen time to avoid eye strain and redness.
He recommends, for the best eye health and high hopes of love at first sight, using lubricating drops when your eyes feel uncomfortable and always prioritising sleep. He said, “A good night’s sleep is the best remedy for puffiness and can restore brightness, so aim for consistent rest to wake up with revitalised eyes.”