Dating has changed a lot in the last decade, and one of the biggest players stepping into the online dating scene is Facebook Dating. If you already spend time on Facebook, setting up a dating profile there makes sense. It’s free, easy to use, and connects you with people who share common interests. But here’s the catch—you need to set up your dating profile the right way to stand out.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about creating a new dating profile on the Facebook app, from the basics of getting started to tips on making your profile shine.
What is Facebook Dating?
Before jumping in, let’s clear up what Facebook Dating actually is. It’s not a separate app—you don’t have to download anything extra. Instead, it’s a feature inside the Facebook app that lets you create a dedicated dating profile.
This profile is separate from your main Facebook account. That means your friends won’t see your dating activity on your timeline. The app matches you with people based on your preferences, interests, location, and even the events or groups you’re part of on Facebook.
Think of it as Facebook’s built-in matchmaking service.
Why Use Facebook Dating?
There are dozens of dating apps out there, so why bother with Facebook Dating? Here are a few solid reasons:
- It’s free. No hidden premium tiers.
- You already have an account. No need to sign up for yet another app.
- Shared interests matter. Since Facebook already knows your likes and groups, it suggests matches who are more likely to click with you.
- Secret Crush feature. You can select up to nine people from your friends or Instagram followers you’re secretly interested in. If they add you back, you’re both notified.
- Built-in safety. Since people are tied to Facebook accounts, it feels a bit safer than apps where profiles can be totally anonymous.
Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Dating Profile
Ready to set up your new dating profile? Here’s the simple breakdown.
Step 1: Open the Facebook App
Make sure you’re logged into the latest version of the Facebook app. Outdated versions may not show the Dating feature.
Step 2: Find the Dating Section
- Tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the top or bottom corner of the screen.
- Scroll down until you see “Dating.”
- Tap it to enter the Dating setup.
If you don’t see it, update the app or check if Facebook Dating is available in your region (it’s not rolled out everywhere yet).
Step 3: Start Building Your Profile
Facebook will walk you through creating your dating profile. This is separate from your regular profile, so don’t worry about friends stumbling upon it.
You’ll be asked to:
- Add photos (different from your Facebook profile pics if you want).
- Enter details like gender, location, job, education, and preferences (age range, distance, etc.).
- Write a short bio to tell people who you are.
Step 4: Answer Profile Prompts
Facebook Dating gives you fun prompts like:
- “What does a perfect day look like for you?”
- “What’s one thing on your bucket list?”
- “Two truths and a lie…”
Answering these makes your profile more engaging and gives people conversation starters.
Step 5: Adjust Privacy Settings
You can decide whether you want friends of friends to see you or if you only want to be matched with strangers. You can also block specific people from ever seeing your profile.
Step 6: Complete and Review
Once everything looks good, hit “Done.” Congratulations—your dating profile is live!
Tips to Make Your Profile Stand Out
Setting up a profile is easy, but making it attractive takes a little effort. Here are some tips:
1. Choose the Right Photos
- Use clear, recent pictures. Avoid group shots where it’s hard to tell who you are.
- Smile. People are naturally drawn to friendly faces.
- Show your lifestyle. Photos of you traveling, cooking, or doing hobbies are conversation starters.
2. Write a Catchy Bio
Your bio should be short but give people an idea of who you are. Instead of saying “I like movies,” try:
- “Big fan of thriller movies—always looking for someone to debate plot twists with.”
Keep it real, honest, and lighthearted.
3. Use the Prompts Wisely
Pick prompts that show off your personality. If you’re funny, throw in a witty answer. If you’re adventurous, mention something bold you’ve done.
4. Be Clear About What You’re Looking For
Whether you’re after something serious or casual, be upfront. It saves time and avoids mismatched expectations.
5. Stay Active
The more you use the app—liking profiles, responding to messages—the more visibility you’ll get.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though Facebook Dating is simple, many people trip up when setting up their profile. Watch out for these pitfalls:
- Using only selfies. Mix it up with different kinds of photos.
- Being too vague. “I like music and food” doesn’t tell anyone much.
- Ignoring the bio. A blank profile looks lazy.
- Oversharing. Don’t put your phone number, address, or other private info in your bio.
- Neglecting updates. Refresh your photos and info every few months.
Safety Tips for Facebook Dating
Safety always comes first in online dating. Here’s how to stay secure while meeting new people:
- Keep conversations in the app until you feel comfortable.
- Don’t share personal info (like your workplace or home address) right away.
- Use video chat within the app before meeting in person—it helps confirm the person is real.
- Meet in public places for the first few dates.
- Tell a friend where you’re going if you’re meeting someone new.
How to Delete or Pause Your Facebook Dating Profile
If you ever want to take a break or delete your dating profile completely, it’s simple:
- Go to the Dating settings.
- Tap “General.”
- Select “Delete Profile.”
You can also choose to pause your profile, which hides you from matches without deleting your info.
Conclusion
Making a new dating profile on the Facebook app is quick and straightforward. The key is to put in a little extra effort—choose good photos, write a fun bio, and be honest about what you’re looking for. With millions of users already on Facebook, the dating feature gives you access to a huge pool of potential matches without ever leaving the app.
Whether you’re new to online dating or just curious to try something different, Facebook Dating is worth exploring. Build your profile thoughtfully, stay safe, and who knows—you might just find your match.
