UK communications regulator Ofcom has called for enhanced online safety legislation to protect teenage boys from exposure to harmful social media content related to body image. In a recent report, Ofcom highlighted the growing concern around the "looksmaxxing" trend, which encourages users to adopt extreme beauty practices to improve their appearance.

The regulator noted that looksmaxxing content, which can include dangerous practices such as striking the face to sculpt a sharper jawline and using crystal meth to maintain a lean physique, poses particular risks for boys. Ofcom emphasized that this trend may increase pressure on adolescent boys to conform to narrow and unrealistic standards of attractiveness.

According to the report, boys are more frequently exposed to posts promoting muscle enhancement products, while girls tend to encounter content emphasizing unrealistic body ideals. Ofcom described such content as promoting “body stigma” and called for stronger measures to limit children’s access to these potentially damaging messages.

A government spokesperson supported the regulator’s position, stating that social media platforms must take greater responsibility for protecting children from harmful material. The spokesperson underscored that the government is committed to safeguarding children’s safety online and expects platforms to collaborate on establishing more robust protections for young users moving forward.

The call for tougher online safety laws reflects ongoing concerns about the impact of social media on youth well-being, particularly regarding body image and self-esteem. Ofcom’s report adds to a wider debate on how best to regulate digital platforms to mitigate risks posed by harmful content targeting minors.