The SkinnyTok trend is being called out online, but what exactly is it?
Many of us have a love/hate relationship with TikTok. We can all admit we spend far too much time on the app, aimlessly scrolling through edits of whatever actor everyone on the internet is obsessed with and watching endless apartment tours.
It takes up too much of our time, but sometimes, scrolling through the app can help us switch off, even if it is just for ten minutes.
However, TikTok, like all corners of the internet, comes with its pretty awful side, and a recent trend called SkinnyTok has highlighted just how bad it is.
Experts have issued a warning to users about the SkinnyTok trend and stressed that it could damage young people’s self-esteem as well as their eating habits.
But what exactly is SkinnyTok?
SkinnyTok is a growing subculture that glorifies extreme thinness and restrictive eating habits.
It has gained a concerning amount of traction online despite experts slamming the trend. Many experts have issued warnings about its damaging effects, particularly on young people’s self-esteem and body image.
Recently, a major influencer behind the trend was banned from TikTok, sparking discussions about the long-term impact of social media on mental well-being.
We’ve seen dozens of trends encourage women to look a certain way, and the most ‘desired’ way is to be thin.
We remember the years when women were encouraged to just eat Special K for every meal. Emily in The Devil Wears Prada bragged about eating nothing but a cube of cheese so she could look thin.
Bridget Jones and Natalie from Love Actually were called ‘fat’ despite being no more than a size 12.
We’ve dealt with the pressure to look a certain way for far too long, and the SkinnyTok trend is threatening to break any progress we’ve made.
For years, we were fooled into thinking that being skinny was the best way to be, but we’re slowly breaking down that societal ideal.
Mental Health Expert Stephen Buchwald spoke out against the trend and stressed that it could result in mental health issues.
He said: “Social media can be a space for self-expression and connection, but it also amplifies unrealistic body standards that can severely impact mental health, especially for impressionable young audiences.”
The unattainable beauty standards we’re being fed on social media may lead to increased anxiety and depression.
“Seeing curated, unrealistic images of thinness on a daily basis can make people feel like they’re never good enough. This creates a cycle of self-criticism and low self-worth, which can escalate into anxiety and depression.”
Exposure to extreme dieting advice can encourage restrictive eating habits. Research shows that even just eight minutes of viewing “thinspiration” content can negatively impact body image.
“These trends don’t just normalize unhealthy behaviors—they make them seem desirable. For many, this is a gateway to disordered eating, which can have severe physical and psychological consequences.”
The constant flood of idealised body images can distort how individuals see themselves.
“The more time people spend engaging with these trends, the more they internalise these unrealistic standards. This can lead to body dysmorphic disorder, where individuals fixate on perceived ‘flaws’ that aren’t even noticeable to others.”
There will always be a trend that pressures us to change how we look. However, there are ways to protect ourselves from these harmful ideas.
Muting or unfollowing harmful accounts can make a big difference.
“Be intentional about the content you consume. Follow creators who promote balanced, healthy perspectives on body image and self-care.”
You should also seek professional support if you’re struggling with body image issues. You can contact Bodywhys | Helpline at (01) 2107906.
Remember that your weight, your appearance, and the size of your clothes do not define who you are.
