Profile photos on dating sites can make or break the possibility of an eventual personal get-together, exacerbated by apps like Tinder, which offer a fast-paced, almost entirely image-based decision making process. An open question is whether altering photos to remove blemishes, tone down facial lines or even whiten blood-shot eyes is truly helpful.

A study from the University of Connecticut sought an answer. It found that when men viewed enhanced photos of women, their reported attractiveness increased but the perceived trustworthiness was lowered. On the other hand, women believed that men whose images had been enhanced were not only more  attractive but also more trustworthy.

The findings will be presented this month in Puerto Rico by Assistant Professor-in-Residence Rory McGloin and his team at the annual conference of the International Communication Association. The study examined 305 self-identified heterosexual participants, aged 17 – 36. Participants were randomly shown specific dating profile pictures of members of the opposite sex. The photos were of  two types, one that had been “beautified” with augmented lighting, hair or makeup while the other had not been edited. Participants then answered questions regarding trustworthiness,  physical attractiveness and their desire to date.

Previous research has shown that users of dating sites believe the display of their “best” images is important and also that their initial appeal can be critical. The new study uses known attraction theories to describe profile pictures and their perceived attractiveness.

McGloin said that, although men found women with enhanced images to be more attractive, they also believed them to be less trustworthy. He said the findings “provide an empirical highlight” to the reportedly “normal and acceptable” practice in online dating “for individuals’ to mislead or deceive their potential suitors.”