The “looksmaxxing” trend is prompting young men to pursue extreme physical changes, raising concerns among experts about safety and mental health implications.
The trend known as “looksmaxxing” has gained traction among young men, leading them to seek extreme physical alterations in their quest for sharper features and enhanced confidence. This phenomenon has sparked discussions among experts regarding its safety and the psychological motivations behind it.
During a recent segment, Brian Kilmeade explored this growing online movement, which has captivated many young men across the United States. Looksmaxxing is often divided into two categories: “softmaxxing,” which involves less invasive methods, and “hardmaxxing,” which includes more extreme interventions. While the movement promotes self-improvement, experts have raised alarms about the potential risks associated with these practices.
Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Claire Wolinsky noted that the looksmaxxing trend has been on the rise for at least a year. She highlighted popular techniques such as “mewing,” a method where individuals attempt to reshape their jawlines through specific tongue positioning. However, Dr. Wolinsky was quick to dismiss the scientific validity of such methods, stating they are “clearly not science-based at all.”
The shift towards male-centric beauty standards appears to be heavily influenced by social media, according to Dr. Wolinsky. She observed that many young people are increasingly skeptical of traditional medical advice, instead turning to online sources and attractive peers for guidance on appearance. This digital landscape has created an environment where influencers, rather than medical professionals, set health and grooming standards for a generation of men.
Family therapist Tom Kersting expressed concern about the mental health implications for those engaging in looksmaxxing. He questioned whether these young men are exhibiting “narcissistic behavior” or seeking external validation from strangers online. Kersting emphasized that true self-worth is not determined by digital metrics, stating, “Self-esteem is how I feel about myself. It has nothing to do with how many likes, followers, or thumbs-up that I get from the outside world.”
While experts acknowledge that some aspects of looksmaxxing may be harmless, the distinction between self-care and self-harm is becoming increasingly blurred. Dr. Wolinsky pointed out that practices such as proper skincare and adequate sleep can be beneficial. However, she expressed concern over “hardmaxxing” behaviors, which may involve the use of steroids, supplements, or even plastic surgery at a young age. “These practices concern me as a mom and also as a physician,” she remarked.
The conversation also touched on the alarming practice of “bone smashing,” where individuals reportedly use physical objects to alter their facial structure. Dr. Wolinsky clarified the dangers associated with such actions, explaining that individuals are reportedly using hammers or other objects to inflict harm on themselves. “There’s no way that by destroying a bone, it gets thicker or better, or your jawline’s going to look improved,” she stated.
Kersting suggested that the rise of looksmaxxing may reflect a broader societal crisis affecting young men who feel marginalized. As they grapple with their identities, many may turn to the internet for guidance. “The people that are influencing them—these social media influencers—don’t really have anything very influential to offer,” he said.
As the looksmaxxing trend continues to evolve, experts urge caution and encourage young men to seek reliable information and support rather than relying solely on social media influencers. The potential risks associated with extreme physical alterations underscore the importance of prioritizing mental health and self-acceptance.
According to Fox News, the ongoing discourse surrounding looksmaxxing highlights the need for a more balanced approach to self-improvement and the importance of understanding the psychological factors at play.