Published: August 7, 2025
The Department of Human Biology at the University of Wrocław has launched a new research project led by Professor Bogusław Pawłowski, exploring the signaling role of facial features linked to male sex hormone levels—this time focusing on men aged 50 and above.
As part of the OPUS21-funded study titled “Biological Condition of Middle-Aged Men as an Indicator of the Body’s Capacity to Bear the Physiological Costs of Masculinization,” researchers have created a questionnaire aimed at individuals aged 18+, which includes evaluating photographs of male faces.
Survey – Perception of Men’s Faces
Some biological hypotheses suggest that traits commonly considered physically attractive in men—shaped by testosterone—may indicate better health, immunity, fertility, or physical fitness. However, testosterone in high levels can be physiologically taxing, potentially weakening the immune system and increasing oxidative stress. This leads to two possibilities: men with such traits either have exceptional biological resilience or will experience health consequences later in life.
While previous studies have shown that men perceived as more masculine or attractive often exhibit stronger immune responses and better fertility, many others do not find such correlations. This may be due to a research focus on younger men (aged 20–40), who can temporarily handle elevated testosterone levels without obvious biological costs.
This current project is pioneering in its focus on older men aged 50–60, aiming to detect long-term effects of testosterone and how they relate to perceived attractiveness, masculinity, and age. The study also compares current and past levels of masculinity and gathers biological data such as hormone levels and health indicators.
If you’re interested in contributing to science, you’re invited to participate by completing a brief online survey. It includes a few demographic questions and a set of male facial images to be rated for attractiveness, masculinity, and estimated age. While everyone over 18 is welcome, the research team is especially seeking responses from women.
Take part in the survey and help advance scientific knowledge.
Source: University of Wrocław
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