First Kiss Mistakes: The Ultimate Guide to What NOT to Do—And How to Get It Right

Your first kiss is a breathtaking milestone—but one that often comes with nerves, awkwardness, and, yes, some easy-to-make mistakes.

Why First Kiss Mistakes Happen

First kisses are fraught with expectations. The nerves, excitement, and build-up can cause us to overthink—or overlook—some very basic steps. But rest assured: nobody gets it perfect the first time! In fact, what you don’t do can be just as important as what you do.

1. Failing the Breath Test: Bad Breath

Nothing ruins a magical moment faster than unpleasant breath. This is one of the top mistakes cited by daters and kissing coaches: garlic, onion, coffee, and neglected dental hygiene can all linger—and linger long after the kiss ends.

How to Avoid:

• Brush and floss before your date.

• Use mouthwash or keep mints handy (dispose before kissing!).

• Avoid pungent foods beforehand.

2. Aggressive Tongue Action

French kissing is exciting—but only when both are ready. One of the worst mistakes is going too heavy, too soon with your tongue. Overly enthusiastic swirling, “tongue poking,” and unwanted “vacuum” kisses can make your partner uncomfortable.

How to Avoid:

• Start with closed-mouth kisses and progress if signals are good.

• Use your tongue sparingly at first, and gently—less is more for the first kiss.

3. Stiff Lips and Body

Another common error: remaining tense as a board. Stiff lips, tense facial muscles, or standing ramrod straight while kissing makes the moment uncomfortable and can kill the vibe.

How to Avoid:

• Take deep breaths before and while you kiss.

• Keep your lips relaxed; let your body go with the flow and match your partner’s energy.

4. Confused or Wandering Hands

Not knowing what to do with your hands can result in awkwardness or even crossing boundaries by accident. Leaving hands at your sides, getting overly handsy, or touching places that make your partner uncomfortable top the list of complaints.

How to Avoid:

• Rest your hands gently on their back, shoulders, or softly cup their face.

• Avoid roaming or gripping tightly—think soft and considerate touch.

5. Clashing Teeth or Missing the Mouth

Nerves sometimes get the best of us, and it’s easy to bump noses, clash teeth, or totally miss your partner’s lips (seriously, it happens!).

How to Avoid:

• Move in slowly and tilt your head slightly.

• Start with light touches and gentle pressure, adjusting as you go.

6. Eyes Wide Open!

Keeping your eyes open or staring intensely can be unsettling for your partner. It’s one of the most-cited “creepy” mistakes in kissing forums.

How to Avoid:

• As your lips meet, close your eyes to heighten the sensation and show you’re immersed in the moment.

7. Forgetting to Breathe

Some people get so caught up in the nerves or the moment that they literally hold their breath—only to have the kiss interrupted by gasping for air.

How to Avoid:

• Practice breathing gently through your nose.

• If the kiss lasts more than a few seconds, pull back for a smile or a breath before continuing.

8. Too Much Talking—Or Not Enough Cues

Asking “Am I a good kisser?” right after your first kiss, or talking too much in between, breaks the moment’s magic. On the flip side, complete silence (especially if you’re tense) can also be awkward.

How to Avoid:

• Use warm smiles, brief compliments, or gentle feedback (“That was really nice!”).

9. Trying to Imitate Movie Scenes or Getting Too Creative

Movies can set unrealistic expectations. Weird or theatrical maneuvers—like dramatic dips, instant passionate “movie kisses,” or elaborate tongue action—are often unwelcome during a first kiss.

How to Avoid:

• Keep it simple. Let reality be your guide instead of film scripts.

10. Overthinking or Being Too Nervous

It’s easy to psych yourself out with anxiety: “What if I blow it?” Being too self-conscious makes you stiff, awkward, and less able to enjoy the moment.

How to Avoid:

• Focus on your partner rather than your own technique.

• Embrace the nerves; everyone is awkward during their first few tries.

How to Recover from a First Kiss Mistake

Everyone makes at least one mistake the first time. If you bump noses, miss the lips, or laugh nervously, it’s perfectly okay. Apologize lightly or just laugh—your partner will likely be relieved (or amused). What matters most is connection and kindness, not perfection.

Expert-Backed Tips for a Great First Kiss

• Check consent: If in doubt, ask: “Can I kiss you?” This is almost always seen as romantic and respectful.

• Start slow: You don’t have to rush the moment. Build anticipation and let each kiss linger before intensifying.

• Read the signals: Adjust based on your partner’s reactions—mirroring is your friend for both style and intensity.

• Stay present: Focus on the connection, not the choreography. Your kiss is about two people, not about performance points.

Read More: How to Kiss for the First Time

Final Thoughts

First kiss mistakes are universal—and mostly, unforgettable in the best way. Most errors make for funny stories later and don’t doom your romantic prospects. What sets a truly memorable first kiss apart is not technique but authenticity, respect, and staying tuned in to your partner. Breathe, go slow, keep it light—and don’t sweat the awkward moments. They’re part of what make your own romantic story wonderfully real.

And remember: every experienced kisser was a nervous beginner once. Take pride in your courage, learn from the missteps, and let yourself enjoy every heartbeat.