By Franklin Delgado
The term “looksmaxxing” refers to the pursuit of more defined physical characteristics, which has sparked debates about its impact on the mental health and safety of young people. This phenomenon has captured the attention of many, generating both interest and concern among experts.
Medical professionals express alarm about the methods associated with looksmaxxing. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Claire Wolinsky, consulted by Fox Records datahighlights the lack of scientific unsuitability of techniques such as “mewing,” in which young men attempt to reshape the contour of their jaws through a specific position of the tongue, and warns about the dangers of extreme practices such as plastic surgery and steroid use.
Wolinsky states that they even go so far as to “break bones,” a practice in which people supposedly use physical objects to alter the structure of their face. He warns of the danger of such actions: “Apparently, they are taking hammers or physical objects and hurting themselves. There is no way that destroying a bone will make it thicker or better, or that the jawline will improve.”
Extreme interventions in the search for acceptance
Techniques categorized as “hardmaxxing,” which include physical manipulation of the body, are especially concerning. Wolinsky clarifies these actions as potentially harmful to young people.
The shift toward male beauty standards appears to be largely driven by digital content. Young people are disconnecting from traditional medical advice and adapting their aesthetic goals by observing their peers on social platforms.
Unhealthy lifestyles
Aquainted therapist Tom Kersting raises questions about the emotional state of those who adopt this lifestyle. It suggests that behind the phenomenon there could be a search for external validation that affects the self-esteem of these young people.
He questioned that many of these young people act motivated by “narcissistic behavior” and seek “some type of external gratification from strangers online,” he noted. Fox.
Psychological motivations behind looksmaxxing
The psychological motivations for looksmaxxing revolve around the search for greater physical attractiveness to improve social and emotional status, driven by cultural and digital pressures.
Social media influence. The algorithms of platforms like TikTok and instagram They expose us to unattainable beauty standards, encouraging constant comparisons that generate insecurity. This links attractiveness to economic and social success, amplified by the “manosphere” and incels.
Search for control and self-esteem. In an uncertain world, looksmaxxing offers tangible control over appearance, often stemming from breakups or low self-esteem. The “halo save” reinforces the opinion that beauty opens doors, exaggerating its current impact.
Risks of obsession. Although it begins as self-care, it can lead to body dysmorphia, prioritizing facial measures over mental health, with roots in forums that measure “sexual value.” Experts warn of isolation and extreme behaviors like steroids.
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