A warning about looksmaxxing
Exercise caution when you try to improve your fitness and appearance.
Inspired by nonna
Another trend being popularised on social media right now is “nonna maxxing”.
Popular among members of Gen Z (those born 1997 to 2012) trend reflects a growing desire to slow down, disconnect from constant screen use, and reconnect with traditional, hands-on cooking practices inspired by grandmothers.
The movement emphasises homemade meals, seasonal ingredients, and nurturing others through food. It builds on earlier trends such as sourdough baking, but is driven by burnout, stress, and digital fatigue among younger generations.
Cooking slow dishes like pasta or braised meals offers a tangible activity and emotional comfort. While the label is inspired by the Italian word for grandmother, the trend resonates globally, with young people reviving family recipes and cultural food traditions.
Related reading: Forbes
You may have heard someone mention “looksmaxxing” and, like me, wondered what it’s all about.
Apparently, it’s a social media trend that has been gaining attention in Australia and around the world in recent times.
Online sources say the term refers to efforts to maximise one’s physical appearance, from everyday habits such as improving grooming, diet, and exercise through to cosmetic procedures and more extreme interventions.
The idea itself isn’t new, but its rapid spread online has amplified pressure, particularly (but not exclusively) on young people to meet narrow beauty standards.
Originating on internet forums in the 2010s, looksmaxxing is often driven by the belief that appearance is the key to confidence and success.
While some aspects align with healthy self-care, experts warn that the trend can easily tip into obsession, encouraging people to judge themselves, and others, primarily by looks.
That distinction matters. At one end are sensible lifestyle choices such as regular exercise, good sleep, and balanced nutrition. At the other are far more extreme behaviours, including unnecessary cosmetic surgery, unproven “body hacks”, or the use of risky substances.
Health professionals note that the more extreme end of the trend can lead to serious physical harm as well as mental health concerns such as anxiety, body dissatisfaction, and eating disorders.
Reports in Australia have even linked the trend to unsafe practices such as the use of illegal performance-enhancing drugs and other unregulated products, which can carry significant health risks.
For older Australians, the growing visibility of appearance-focused trends is also relevant when considering cosmetic treatments.
Health authorities emphasise that no cosmetic procedure is risk-free, even those that seem routine, such as anti-wrinkle injections or dermal fillers.
The Department of Health advises anyone considering cosmetic work to seek qualified practitioners, understand potential complications, and ensure the availability of proper follow-up care before proceeding.
Fitness is another area where a “more is better” mindset can be misleading.
Regular physical activity is one of the most important factors in healthy ageing, supporting strength, balance, and independence.
However, overdoing exercise, particularly without adequate rest or preparation, can lead to injury and a decline in overall wellbeing, especially in older adults.
Australian guidance recommends building activity gradually and aiming for moderate exercise on most days, rather than pushing to extremes.
Ultimately, the rise of looksmaxxing serves as a reminder that while taking care of your appearance can be positive, it should never come at the expense of your health or peace of mind.
Confidence and quality of life are shaped by far more than appearance alone.
Related reading: HealthDirect, AHPRA, Psychology Today, Healthline, Pilot
Disclaimer: This article is for information purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional about any health concerns or before making any changes to your medication, diet, or exercise routine.
Thousands of Australia-wide discounts
Exclusive offers and savings across dining, shopping, gift cards, and more – all in the EAT | PLAY | SAVE app.
Members save 10% on Travel Insurance*
National Seniors members receive a 10% discount on travel insurance policies*.
Financial Information Consultant
Speak to a real person and receive up-to-date information on retirement planning, superannuation, and more!
Branches
Expand your social circle, enjoy social events, day trips, guest speakers, and meet like-minded members.
Exclusive Travel Discounts
Save on tours, cruises, and holidays with exclusive discounts on National Seniors Travel.
Our Generation Digital Magazine
Receive a yearly subscription to Our Generation Digital Magazine.
The Good Guys Commercial
Members enjoy exclusive access to The Good Guys Corporate Benefits. Save on small and large appliances as well as technology.
Advocacy & Research
Your membership directly funds our advocacy and research work fighting issues that affect you.
Competitions
Access exclusive member-only weekly competitions including books, DVDs, CDs, movie tickets and more.
Discounts
In addition to the discounts app, members can save thousands on eGift Cards and other discounted products.
*The discount applies to the total National Seniors travel insurance premium and is for National Seniors Australia members only. Discounts do not apply to the rate of GST and stamp duty or any changes you make to the policy. nib has the discretion to withdraw or amend this discount offer at any time. This discount cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotional offer or discount. ^ Cover is subject to terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions in the PDS.
National Seniors Australia Ltd ABN 89 050 523 003, AR 282736 is an authorised representative of nib Travel Services (Australia) Pty Ltd (nib), ABN 81 115 932 173, AFSL 308461 and act as nib's agent and not as your agent. This is general advice only. Before you buy, you should consider your needs, the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS), Financial Services Guide (FSG) and Target Market Determination (TMD) available from us. This insurance is underwritten by Pacific International Insurance Pty Ltd, ABN 83 169 311 193.
