Global InformationLooksmaxxing information
Looksmaxxing is a term originating from incel internet forums, and refers to maximizing one’s own physical attractiveness.[1] "Looksmaxxing" can be traced back to mid-2014 and emerged on message boards Lookism, Sluthate, PUAHate.[2] In the 2020s, the term left relatively obscure internet forums, and was popularised on TikTok.[1]
Proponents of "looksmaxxing" refer to simple practices as "softmaxxing", including proper hygiene, skincare, hairstyles suited to one's face shape, exercise routines, wearing fashionable clothing, as well as "mewing"; a scientifically unsupported tongue posture pratice purported to improve jaw structure. "Hardmaxxing" refers to more extreme and permanent methods, including undergoing cosmetic procedures such as jaw surgery.[3]
While some looksmaxxing ideas have been deemed helpful for male self improvement, online forums have been criticized for contributing to male body dysmorphia, and the spread of misogynistic and racist beliefs.[1] The spread of lookmaxxing content on TikTok is said to exclude many of the "toxic" elements seen on forums.[3]
- ^ a b c d Farrell, Riley (27 March 2024). "Inside looksmaxxing, the extreme cosmetic social media trend". BBC. Retrieved 2024-04-23.
- ^ Conti, Allie; Kantrowitz, Lia (2018-06-20). "Inside the Disturbing Forum Incels Use to Brutally Criticize Each Other's Faces". Vice. Retrieved 2024-02-25.
- ^ a b Cite error: The named reference
:5was invoked but never defined (see the help page).