This trait, often ignored, is much more irresistible than physical beauty.

Photo: Kirsten Dunst, Jake Gyllenhaal

When it comes to love, physical attraction certainly matters. But according to Vanessa Van Edwards, a relationship expert and instructor at Harvard, there's one trait that's often overlooked but is far more attractive than looks. And, to your surprise, it has to do with laughter.

Vanessa Van Edwards

In 2026, romantic encounters are a different world. It's no longer as common to meet in a bar, supermarket, park, church, or some random place. Today, the main place to find love is online .

But physical beauty, especially online, can often be deceiving. And even if the photos are accurate, they alone aren't enough to build a strong, lasting connection. Van Edwards points out that there are many traits that make you attractive that have nothing to do with eye color or jaw shape, but one trait stands out above the rest: humor.

"Women rank humor as the main trait they want in a man. Men don't value humor so much in women, they want a woman who laughs at their jokes," explains Van Edwards. 

So, boys and men, you can stop lying about your height and start working on your humor.

And for girls and women: your laughter is more powerful than you might think. Research shows that a genuine laugh is more effective at attracting someone.

Humor isn't just fun. Laughter reduces stress and anxiety, which often increase on a first date. Research also shows that the more a man tries to be humorous and the more a woman laughs at his jokes, the more romantic interest increases.

Furthermore, non-physical traits, such as compatibility of interests and values, can be just as important as appearance. It's not just beauty that makes you attractive; a person with a sense of humor, a smile, and someone with whom you share similar values ??can be much more irresistible.

So, instead of focusing solely on looks, allow yourself to have fun, tell jokes, and laugh as much as you can when you feel like it. The date will be more enjoyable, and you may see that attraction isn't always just about what meets the eye.