How to talk to boys about looksmaxxing

Published: Friday, May 1, 2026 at 9:01 am

Looksmaxxing: A Dangerous Trend Targeting Young Men

A concerning trend known as "looksmaxxing" is gaining traction among young men, prompting warnings from mental health experts. This movement, which emphasizes radical physical self-improvement, is pushing some to take extreme and potentially dangerous measures to achieve an idealized appearance.

Experts like Gene Beresin, Executive Director of the Clay Center for Young Healthy Minds, are raising alarms about the potential for significant physical and mental health consequences, including eating disorders and body dysmorphia. The trend, which has been growing in popularity over the last decade, encourages young men to pursue perfection through methods ranging from workout tips to highly destructive practices like self-inflicted injuries and the use of steroids.

The origins of looksmaxxing are linked to the incel community, which believes that physical appearance is the key to happiness and success. This ideology often promotes European beauty standards and, according to experts, is intertwined with white supremacist beliefs. The "Chad" ideal, a tall, angular-jawed, white male, is often held up as the standard of attractiveness and success.

Parents are advised to be vigilant and watch for signs of looksmaxxing involvement in their sons. These include complaints about appearance, comparisons to others, changes in eating habits, and requests for cosmetic surgery. Early intervention is crucial, with experts recommending open conversations about appearance and self-esteem starting in early childhood.

Experts also suggest that parents engage with their sons' interests, such as video games, to initiate discussions about their choices and motivations. Encouraging creativity and pursuing other interests can help redirect young people from unhealthy behaviors.

BNN's Perspective:

While the desire for self-improvement is natural, the extreme measures promoted by looksmaxxing are deeply concerning. Parents need to be proactive in addressing this trend, fostering open communication, and promoting healthy self-esteem in their children. It's crucial to emphasize that true value lies beyond physical appearance.

Keywords: looksmaxxing, young men, body image, mental health, incel, white supremacy, self-improvement, appearance, eating disorders, body dysmorphia, parents, adolescents, social media, steroids, surgery

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