The winking face emoji is used to make a message feel playful. It can signal that the sender is joking, teasing, flirting, or adding a light hint.
😉
Why people add it
A wink can soften a sentence that might otherwise sound too direct. It can also make a compliment feel flirtier or tell the reader not to take the message too seriously.
Be careful with tone
Because it can suggest flirting, it may be misunderstood in professional or formal conversations. In casual chats, it usually feels friendly and relaxed.
If the message is more confusing than playful, the upside-down face emoji may fit better.