A Guide To Identifying Sexual Chemistry

Sometimes we can’t explain the unique sexual chemistry we have with a specific person. But what does science has to say about it?

Sexual chemistry is one of those things that you know when you feel it. Without any reasonable explanation, you feel that pull, that physical and sexual attraction to a person. It’s almost as if by magic, you feel your senses immediately changing inside of you.

But what’s the actual explanation and definition for sexual chemistry? What’s the science behind this crazy attraction? The science behind sexual chemistry is real. Love, lust, and attraction are categories of this chemical equation. Let’s find out.

Lust = Testosterone + Estrogen

The hypothalamus located in the brain stimulates the production of estrogen and testosterone — both are sex hormones that make you desire the other person, whether if you’re a male or female. We all possess these hormones.

Love = Dopamine + Norepinephrine – Serotonin

Then, the “reward” hormone for something pleasurable is released, dopamine. Next, norepinephrine is activated as the result of the attraction. Serotonin comes to the equation affecting mood and hunger (that’s why we can’t sleep well or lose appetite when we’re in love).

Attraction = Oxytocin + Vasopressin

Known as the “cuddle hormone,” oxytocin reinforces both attraction and attachment between romantic partners. Oxytocin is a powerful hormone released during birth and sex.

But besides the hormonal mess that sexual chemistry causes our bodies and brains, why does it happen in the first place?

Science hasn’t gone that far yet, but experts suspect it might be a combination of three factors: biology, social and developmental.

Biological factors are physical appearance, hormones, and pheromones. Social is how much you like and believe someone looks to be attractive to you. And developmental is whether someone reminds you of an earlier pleasurable experience.

However, sexual chemistry can be one-sided. Just because you get the tingles when you see Johnny Depp, it doesn’t mean he’ll feel the same when you cross paths.

To know if the other person feels the same as you, pay attention to some hints such as eye contact, flirts, and the lingering physical touch.