How to Kiss: A First Time Kisser's Guide

So you've finally found that special someone and you want to kiss. But you've never kissed before, and you don't want to ruin it by being a bad kisser. Well don't worry, your first kiss doesn't have to be a disaster. Follow these easy tips and your first kiss will be wonderful!

Before your first kiss

Personal hygiene can make the difference between a pleasant first kiss and an awkward one. Be sure to take a shower ahead of time and put on some deodorant. It's hard to enjoy a kiss when your body odor is scaring people away. It's okay to use a little perfume or cologne, but don't pile it on. Too much of that can be just as offensive as strong BO.

Make sure you brush your teeth ahead of time. A bad tasting mouth can really destroy an otherwise great kiss. Try eating a piece of fruit or sucking on a mint ahead of time, and be sure to avoid any strong smelling foods like onions or garlic. Make sure you don't have any gum or chunks of food in your mouth, and avoid smoking just before the kiss; no one likes locking lips with an ashtray - not even other smokers.

Girls, don't wear too much lipstick or lip gloss. It can get all over your boyfriends face and make the kiss really messy. Guys, shave ahead of time. A face full of stubble can feel like sand paper to your girlfriend's cheeks, and that could keep her from coming back for more.

Practicing ahead of time isn't really necessary. You'll find that kissing comes pretty naturally. But if you want to practice anyway, you should. Traditionally, people have practiced kissing using their hand or even the inside of their elbow. It may sound weird, but it can give you some idea of what your mouth will feel like when you kiss the real thing.

How to tell when it's a good time to kiss

For your first kiss, it's best to be in a private place where you don't have to worry about others watching you. If you've never kissed before, it can be hard to tell when it's a good time to go for it. Here are a few pointers:

- The conversation may have slowed down a lot, and you may start feeling the urge to kiss.

- You and your partner may be making a lot more eye contact, and you and your partner's eyes may look relaxed and heavy.

- Your partner may have their head tilted slightly to one side.

- Your partner may have wet their lips.

- You may feel an overwhelming urge to lean in and kiss.

Sometimes you can even break the ice and verbally suggest a kiss. Girls, you might try this playful routine:

You: "What time is it?"

Him: "Um... it's 4:30"

You: "Oh, that's awesome! Do you know what's supposed to happen at 4:30?"

Him: "No, what?"

You: "You're supposed to kiss me."

Even the most clueless boys will get the message, and it's a lot less awkward for him if he knows you want him to kiss you.

How to Kiss

When you lean in for the kiss, your heart will be racing and you'll be full of excitement... and maybe fear. Here are a few pointers for the big event:

- Move in slowly, and lick your lips to get them moist.

- Your very first kiss shouldn't involve a lot of tongue. Save the French kissing for later. Start with simple lip-to-lip kissing, and slowly move to open mouth kisses. You'll see that it comes very naturally.

- If something unexpected happens, such as an accidental head-bonking or tooth clicking, don't worry. Just casually laugh it off, and try again.

- Your hands can go around your partner's waist, or gently on their face. You may also embrace your partner in a hug. Whatever comes naturally to you.

After your first kiss

When your first kiss (or kissing session, as they can sometimes turn into) is over, pull back and get some fresh air. The hard part is over. If you liked the kiss, make sure you let your partner know. If all went well you should feel a huge relief, and a rush of pleasant feelings. You won't be so nervous about kissing anymore. In fact, you probably won't be able to get enough! You and your partner will have a new way to share your affection for one another, and you'll always remember your first kiss.