Looksmaxxing

looksmaxxing; maximising one's physical attractiveness by every means (anglicism)

Origin

A coinage from English 'looks' (appearance) and 'maxxing' (from 'to maximize'). The term arose in the mid-2010s in the misogynistic incel forums of the 'manosphere' (e.g. PUAHate, Lookism) and is linked to 'blackpill' ideology. It became mainstream via TikTok from the early 2020s. It means systematically optimising one's appearance to 'maximise' attractiveness – from harmless (grooming, training) to risky methods such as cosmetic surgery or 'bone smashing'.

Source

Building blocks

Words in this expression

Examples

  • Er macht auf Looksmaxxing mit Gym und Hautpflege.

    He's full-on looksmaxxing now with gym and skincare.