Looksmaxxing may point to deeper body image issues in young men, mental health expert says

May 24, 2026 - 17:16

A growing online movement known as "looksmaxxing" is drawing concern from mental health professionals, who say the trend may be masking serious body image disorders in boys and young men. The practice, which involves obsessive routines to maximize physical appearance through diet, exercise, skincare, and even cosmetic surgery, is often sensationalized on social media platforms. But according to one mental health expert, treating these extreme behaviors as a lifestyle choice rather than a symptom of underlying distress can prevent young people from getting proper help.

The expert argues that the fixation on achieving a "perfect" face or body often stems from anxiety, depression, or body dysmorphic disorder. When online communities frame these behaviors as self-improvement or a game, they normalize unhealthy fixations. Young men may feel pressure to measure their worth against unattainable standards, leading to social withdrawal, financial strain from purchasing products or procedures, and in severe cases, self-harm. The psychologist emphasizes that the conversation around looksmaxxing needs to shift from mockery or celebration to recognizing it as a potential cry for help. Without this shift, vulnerable individuals will continue to suffer in silence, mistaking compulsive behavior for empowerment.