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Even Babies Know Who’s Hot: What Science Says About Attractiveness—And How to Use It

By Lena Vasquez, Community Features & Culture Editor

Before they know a single word, newborn babies already have opinions—and one of the first things they show a preference for? Attractive faces.

A now-classic study published in Infant Behavior and Development found that infants, just 14 to 151 hours old, stared longer at faces that adults rated as attractive. When shown two photos side by side—one rated “attractive,” one not—the babies consistently spent more time gazing at the better-looking face.

So what does that mean?

It means attractiveness isn’t just some trendy, ever-changing social construct. Even babies—fresh out of the womb—have instincts about what makes a face appealing. Before culture, before language, before anything, we’re already wired to notice beauty.

And that matters, because the signals babies respond to? They’re raw, real, and unfiltered. They offer clues about what humans naturally find appealing.

What Babies Can Teach You About Looking Better

These aren’t fashion tips. This is deeper than style. Based on what science and psychology suggest babies are responding to, here’s what might make a difference in how your face is perceived—whether by babies, strangers, or dates.

1. Symmetry Wins
Balanced faces are universally more attractive. Even slight asymmetry gets noticed.
Fix it: Groom with symmetry in mind—keep beard lines even, hair cleanly parted, and glasses straight. Use your phone’s flipped camera to spot lopsided features.

2. Clear Skin = Health
We’re wired to associate clear skin with vitality. Babies don’t care about your skincare routine, but their eyes react to smooth, even-toned skin.
Fix it: Hydrate, sleep, stop eating trash, and don’t skip washing your face.

3. Eyes That Connect
Big, open eyes with clarity pull people in. Newborns lock onto eyes more than any other feature.
Fix it: Use eyedrops when needed. Ditch the sunglasses now and then and actually look people in the eye.

4. Jawlines & Cheekbones Matter
Structure implies strength and good genes. It’s primal.
Fix it: Shape your facial hair to highlight structure. Lose puffiness through better sleep or a bit of cardio.

5. High Contrast Features Pop
Defined brows, lashes, and lips make your face more expressive and engaging—especially on camera or in real life.
Fix it: Let your eyebrows grow in fuller. Keep your lips hydrated. Don’t over-shave away your natural definition.

At the end of the day, you don’t have to be a supermodel. You just have to work with what you’ve got—and babies might’ve already cracked the code.

Whether you’re in the dating game, meeting clients, or just trying to feel better in your own skin, the truth is: some things really are universal.

And apparently, even a baby could tell.

Picture of Lena Vasquez

Lena Vasquez

Lena’s where the story starts—before the hashtags, before the headlines. Street fairs, protests, hole-in-the-wall bars, and the rhythm of the city’s real soul.

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