The 6 Best Flirty Emojis to Text Your Crush, According to a Relationship Psychologist

Communication often tops the list of most important pieces of a healthy relationship. While the written word is undoubtedly part of that, it's 2024, and emojis are here to stay. Whether you're crushing on a new beau or the spouse you've woken up next to for decades, using flirty emojis in texts is an effortless trick to spice things up (real talk: You're probably holding your phone, anyway).

"Emojis can be a fun way to flirt with your crush because they can convey many messages with one little picture," shares Dr. Michael Grey, Psy.D., LMFT, ABS, a licensed marriage and family therapist and board-certified sexologist. "They also add fun to the messages. They show that people can be fun, add playfulness to messages, and highlight that you’re not dull or boring."

Despite their ubiquity, emojis may actually be underrated—and help ward off awkwardness.

"They make the message come alive, convey emotion and help people better understand the tone of the message because letters have no tone or feeling," Dr. Grey explains.

Of course, they can also make things more awkward, and using emojis may not be second nature to you. Dr. Grey lent a hand (🫱), sharing his favorite flirty emojis to send a crush when words won't do.

Related: 130 of the Best Fun and Flirty Texts To Send the Guy You’re Crushing On

The 6 Best Flirty Emojis to Text Your Crush, According to a Relationship Psychologist

1. Biting lip 🫦

Dr. Grey says the biting lip comes off as playful.

"It can also be good when setting the mood," Dr. Grey adds.

Think “I can’t wait to see you... 🫦"

2. Face exhaling 😮‍💨

Plot twist?

"This one can be seen as someone feeling exhausted," Dr. Grey concedes. "However, I use it when they say all the right things...and I need a minute to catch my breath."

For instance: You're texting and learn the person you're crushing on loves a good Netflix binge and are down to go dancing, depending on their energy.

3. Smiling face with horns 😈

Dr. Grey recommends using this one when the clock strikes sexy time.

However, that's not the only way to flirt with this specific emoji.

"This can also be used on date nights when you want to throw on a good show or movie, eat yummy food and chill," Dr. Grey says.

4. Hot face 🥵

This "spicy" one doesn't have to be sexual, either.

"When I get the good news that something is canceled after a busy week, I will send this one," Dr. Grey explains. "'Oh, you mean to tell me I don’t have to go out in public on a Friday? Say less 🥵.'"

It could also be used in response to your crush's photo on Instagram or a selfie they send you while dressed up for an event.

5.  Pleading face 🥺

Dr. Grey lovingly refers to this emoji as the "puppy dog eyes," and it's great for being sweet with partners and crushes alike. 

"The 'puppy dog' eyes show that you’re being cute, maybe a little immature, fun and flirty," Dr. Grey explains. "This is good to send to your significant other or crush when you want to spend time with them; tell them how much you love them or enjoy their company."

For instance, Dr. Grey says he might send something like, “PSSSSSST…psssssst, I wuv you 🥺” 

Just starting out? Perhaps you're really hankering for impromptu tacos with your new crush. "Post-work taco Tuesday downtown? 🥺"

Related: How to Flirt Using Just Your Body Language

6. Face with hand over mouth 🤭

This one just looks cute, doesn't it? That's a potential use for it.

"It can be used for when someone may do something embarrassing [or] say something cute or flirty," Dr. Grey explains.

Use it when the conversation is light and funny (read: not that serious).

For instance, say you send your crush a meme or GIF that represents an inside joke between you and your best friend. Your crush is totally confused and asks, "Did you mean to send that to me?"

Try responding with "Oopsie, did I do that? 🤭"

Up Next: 175 Questions to Ask Your Crush That Are Sure to Spark Intrigue

Expert Source

• Dr. Michael Grey, Psy.D., LMFT, ABS, a licensed marriage and family therapist and board-certified sexologist