FOUR in 10 singles find thirst traps on dating apps ‘off‑putting’ – unless they follow these rules.
A poll of 1,000 people who use found there are a range of specific red flags for ‘thirst traps’, suggestive pictures specifically curated to inspire desire and attract those looking at them.
This includes grainy or blurry images (16 per cent), heavy use of editing or filters (26 per cent), or if they’re left wondering what their face actually looks like (28 per cent).
Eight in 10 (83 per cent) said the best dating profile pictures instead reveal something about someone’s personality, not just how they look – proving the modern thirst trap isn’t about how much skin you show, but how you show it.
Demonstrating personality matters just as much as abs and angles, Grindr, which commissioned the research, has teamed up with former rugby player, model, and confidence coach Keegan Hirst to explore the rise of intentional hotness and put the new rules for thirst trap photos to the test.
Known for breaking the internet himself more than once, Hirst takes on the role of Thirst Trap Coach aboard Grindr’s Bussy at Mighty Hoopla, helping festivalgoers level up their photo game and get them grid-ready in just one click.
Keegan Hirst said: “Thirst traps have always been about confidence, but the best ones aren’t trying too hard – they show a bit of personality, a bit of attitude, and leave people wanting to know more.
“That’s what I’m excited to help people capture at Mighty Hoopla – photos that feel sexy because they feel like you.
“Whether it’s a smirk, a pose, an outfit, or just the right , refreshing your profile pics can be a real confidence boost – and on an app, that confidence can be the difference between getting a tap and starting a proper conversation.”
Specific thirst trap turn-ons include candid looking photos demonstrating spontaneity (30 per cent), shots signifying self-care (29 per cent), and well-lit, polished images instead of heavy filter use (21 per cent).
Two thirds (67 per cent) also agreed they only work if the person taking them doesn’t take themselves too seriously.
An in-app survey of Grindr users also found 72 per cent are more likely to start a conversation with someone who has a thirst trap in their photo rotation, while 54 per cent admitted they’ve re-taken their own after being inspired by someone else’s.
Users of the app reckon a good pic says a lot more than just “I’m hot”, claiming thirst traps inspire a range of things, from “they know they’re hot – and want you to know too” energy (58 per cent) to “here for a good time” vibes (48 per cent).
While 40 per cent rate their ability to show off “they understood the assignment” confidence and 39 per cent said it’s the “turning heads on purpose” behaviour which really shines through.
Bedroom mirrors came out on top (39 per cent) as the preferred setting, followed by gym locker rooms (33 per cent), and bathroom selfies (25 per cent) – proving once again that if there’s a mirror, good lighting, and a locked door, someone’s getting content.
While thirst traps have been inspiring lustful glances for millennia, from Michelangelo’s David to the modern day, they are clearly due a glow-up.
The OnePoll.com study found among those who have posted one on their own profile, 83 per cent confirmed it got them more attention – suggesting singles do not necessarily want less NSFW content, they just want it done better.
Tristan Piñeiro, spokesperson for the brand, which has recently introduced NSFW Pics on its Right Now feature, giving users a new way to express themselves authentically on their own terms, said: “Mighty Hoopla is our app in festival form: loud, proud, chaotically camp and full of fabulous people.
“For our community, a snap on the grid is never just a photo. It’s a first impression, a confidence statement, and sometimes the start of a great connection.
“With Bussy and its in-built Thirst Trap Studio, we’re giving festivalgoers a playful way to refresh their profiles, show off what makes them hot, and embrace thirst trapping as the queer art form it’s become.”
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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