Looksmaxxing is a term originating on male incel message boards in the 2010s, referring to a process of maximizing one’s own physical attractiveness.
In the 2020s, the term left relatively obscure internet forums, and was popularised on TikTok. By 2024, it spread to social media groups mainly used by men.
Some that partake in looksmaxxing also look for others to rate their appearance, with some engaging in anonymous message boards associated with incel sub-culture. This rating, together with ones perceived status and wealth has been considered to be one's "sexual market value" (also known as SMV).
Those that look to determine someones attractiveness usually check for a variety of different facial features. One of the most prominent features checked for in men is "hunter eyes", which refers to a neutral/positive canthal tilt, little to no upper eyelid exposure and low-set eyebrows, resembling the eye area of a predatorial animal. Additional features checked for include hollow cheeks and a defined jawline. In order to achieve these features, some perform acts such as the aforementioned "mewing", rubbing against the orbital area, or even getting surgery.
Those who receive a low rating are sometimes harassed for their appearance afterwards, with some forms of harassment including suicide encouragement by use of terms as "It's over" or "ropemaxx".
Additional terms have been coined by these communities in an effort to "dominate others". These phrases include "mogging", which refers to asserting dominance over another person based on their appearance, and being "Y-pilled", which refers to one viewing themselves as more masculine than the other and is a spin on the phrase "redpilled".
Other Terms:
A Chad - God like male beauty
Chadlite - very hot, chad potential
Greycel - over 30, which this community considers old
Stacey - female equivalent of a Chad