The Rise of ‘Looksmaxxing’ and the Dangerous Pursuit of Facial Perfection
When Braden Peters, known online as Clavicular, was a teenager, his mother took away his hammer. Not for mischief, but to stop him from “bonesmashing”—repeatedly tapping his face to alter its shape. Now 20, Clavicular continues this practice, bringing it into the mainstream and highlighting a growing, and often troubling, trend: looksmaxxing.
What is Looksmaxxing?
Looksmaxxing is a predominantly male internet subculture focused on extreme aesthetic self-improvement. Emerging in the early 2010s on forums with problematic origins like PUAHate, SlutHate, and Lookism, the ideology centers on the belief that appearance dictates success in all areas of life. It’s exploded in popularity on platforms like TikTok, largely thanks to influencers like Clavicular.
Looksmaxxing techniques fall into two broad categories: “softmaxxing” – encompassing skincare, diet, exercise, and grooming – and “hardmaxxing” – involving more invasive procedures like surgery, steroids, and peptides. Bonesmashing falls firmly into the latter.
The Appeal – and Peril – of Bonesmashing
Bonesmashing involves repeatedly tapping areas like the chin, cheekbones, and jaw, aiming to cause minor bone damage that, as it heals, supposedly reshapes the face. Proponents believe this aligns with Wolff’s law, which states that bone adapts and strengthens under stress. However, experts caution against this interpretation.
“The very basic premise, that repetitive mechanical load can influence bone density or remodeling, is not completely divorced from science,” says Dr. Joshua Rosenberg, a facial plastic surgeon. “It’s just wildly misunderstood and misapplied here.”
Despite the risks, evidence suggests people are actively attempting bonesmashing. Tutorials exist on YouTube, Instagram users document their “progress,” and forum posters share claims of dramatic improvements.
The Medical Concerns
The practice has raised enough concern that doctors have sent warning letters to medical journals. Dr. Ricardo Grillo of Brazil cautions that bonesmashing carries the risk of “severe maxillofacial injuries,” including cosmetic disfigurement, functional impairment, and long-term consequences. He highlights the potential for scar tissue formation, vascular and neurological damage, and facial asymmetry.
Dr. Rosenberg adds that attempting to create “controlled” microfractures in the face is inherently flawed, potentially leading to fractures like a zygomaticomaxillary complex fracture, resulting in cheek depression and asymmetry.
Future Trends in the Pursuit of Aesthetic Perfection
The rise of looksmaxxing and practices like bonesmashing signal a broader trend: an increasing willingness to pursue extreme measures for perceived aesthetic improvements. Several factors suggest this trend will continue, and potentially evolve.
The Metaverse and Digital Self-Image
As the metaverse and virtual reality become more integrated into daily life, the importance of digital self-image will likely increase. Individuals may seek physical alterations to better align with their avatars or desired online personas. This could drive demand for fresh and experimental procedures.
AI-Powered Personalized Aesthetics
Artificial intelligence (AI) could play a significant role in personalized aesthetics. AI algorithms could analyze facial features and suggest specific procedures – surgical or non-surgical – to achieve desired outcomes. This raises ethical concerns about algorithmic bias and the potential for unrealistic beauty standards.
The Rise of ‘Biohacking’ for Beauty
The biohacking movement, which focuses on optimizing human biology through science and self-experimentation, may intersect with aesthetics. This could involve exploring novel therapies, supplements, or genetic interventions aimed at enhancing appearance.
Increased Scrutiny and Regulation
As practices like bonesmashing gain notoriety, there will likely be increased scrutiny from medical professionals and regulatory bodies. This could lead to stricter regulations on cosmetic procedures and a crackdown on unqualified practitioners promoting dangerous techniques.
FAQ
What is ‘softmaxxing’? Relatively benign methods of self-improvement like skincare, diet, exercise, and grooming.
What is ‘hardmaxxing’? More extreme interventions like surgery or injecting steroids and peptides.
Is bonesmashing safe? No. Medical professionals strongly advise against it due to the risk of severe injuries and complications.
Where did looksmaxxing originate? It emerged in the early 2010s on openly misogynistic internet forums.
Who is Clavicular? Braden Peters, an influencer who has popularized looksmaxxing techniques on platforms like TikTok.
Did you know? The idea behind bonesmashing is loosely based on Wolff’s law, but experts say the application is flawed and dangerous.
Pro Tip: Prioritize safe and evidence-based methods for self-improvement. Consult with qualified medical professionals before considering any cosmetic procedures.
What are your thoughts on the growing trend of looksmaxxing? Share your opinions in the comments below!
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