Thinness, TikTok, and the Algorithm: The Revival of Harmful Beauty Ideals in the Digital Age

Scrolling through social media today, it’s hard not to notice echoes of the early 2000s, when the ‘heroin chic’ aesthetic dominated fashion magazines and ultra-thin bodies were widely celebrated. Back then, women above a size two were frequently mocked in headlines, and intense scrutiny of female bodies was considered routine. As we fast-forward to the present day, similar attitudes are making an unsettling comeback—particularly on platforms like TikTok, where viral trends and algorithm-driven content cycles often spotlight a narrow, unrealistic version of beauty.

Resurgence of Thinness Trends: Old Ideals in a New Feed

One vivid example of this revival is the meteoric rise of the ‘thinspo’ hashtag, which has now attracted over seven hundred million views. Content under this tag often glorifies protruding ribs and tiny waists, closely mirroring the problematic ideals of decades past. While the past few years have seen progress toward body positivity and wider acceptance of diverse body types, a renewed focus on diet culture is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.

Recent statistics reinforce this shift. According to a BBC News analysis, mentions of weight-loss drugs on TikTok have surged by more than 200% in the past year. Many of these posts feature users discussing or demonstrating the use of medications like Ozempic—originally intended for diabetes management but now repurposed for appetite suppression and rapid weight loss. Social media feeds are flooded with transformation photos, ‘diet hacks’, and ab-centric workouts, perpetuating the message that thinness equals health and desirability. Such trends don’t just promote restrictive eating; they implicitly encourage the reduction of muscle mass and reinforce outdated, harmful beauty ideals.

Celebrities often amplify these messages. For instance, the media’s intense coverage of Ariana Grande’s changing weight has ignited widespread debate, reflecting society’s ongoing fascination with celebrity bodies. Similarly, dramatic transformations by stars like Kim Kardashian and Rebel Wilson regularly spark speculation—particularly around the use of drugs like Ozempic—deepening the cultural association between thinness and attractiveness. These stories are endlessly dissected and shared, further embedding narrow beauty standards into the digital landscape.

Algorithmic Amplification: How Platforms Fuel Harmful Trends

But why do such trends catch fire so quickly, and why do they persist? The answer lies partly in the algorithms that power platforms like TikTok. These sophisticated systems are designed to maximise user engagement, often by promoting content that elicits strong emotional responses—whether admiration, envy, or anxiety. Harmful trends, including extreme body ideals and diet fads, tend to provoke intense reactions and high interaction rates, making them more likely to be pushed into users’ feeds.

According to Dr Mia Thompson, a psychologist specialising in digital media and body image, “Social algorithms are finely tuned to detect what keeps us scrolling. Unfortunately, posts that showcase dramatic transformations or promote extreme thinness often generate more clicks and comments, so the algorithm prioritises them—even if they’re damaging.” This feedback loop can normalise unrealistic expectations and make it harder for users to escape the onslaught of narrow beauty ideals.

Moreover, the highly visual and viral nature of TikTok means trends can snowball rapidly, with challenges and hashtags crossing borders and reaching millions in days. The platform’s ‘For You’ page personalises content based on past engagement, meaning that users who interact with just a few ‘thinspo’ or diet-related posts are likely to see more of the same, deepening their exposure to potentially harmful messages.

Counter-Movements: The Emergence of Body Positivity and Neutrality

Despite the prevalence of negative trends, a powerful counter-movement is gaining ground. As harmful content spreads, so too does resistance—often led by influencers, activists, and everyday users who challenge the status quo. This shift is not just a reactionary wave but a sustained effort to reshape the conversation around body image and self-worth.

The emergence of the body neutrality movement marks a significant turning point. Unlike body positivity, which emphasises loving one’s appearance, body neutrality encourages individuals to appreciate their bodies for what they can do, rather than how they look. This approach resonates with those fatigued by the constant pressure to achieve or maintain a particular appearance.

Body Neutrality and Positive Movements: Influencers and Testimonials

Influencers like Taryn Brumfitt, founder of the Body Image Movement, are at the forefront of this change. Brumfitt’s message—“Your body is not an ornament, it’s the vehicle to your dreams”—has struck a chord with thousands seeking relief from appearance-based pressures. These positive voices gain traction by sharing honest, relatable stories and practical advice, countering the polished perfection that often dominates social media.

Everyday users, too, are finding empowerment in online communities and hashtags that challenge restrictive beauty ideals. Melbourne-based creator Jess King shares, “Finding a space where people value me for who I am rather than what I look like has changed my life.” Hashtags such as #BodyNeutrality and #AllBodiesAreGoodBodies offer support, resources, and a sense of belonging for those seeking healthier alternatives to the relentless focus on thinness. These communities provide uplifting stories, practical tips, and a safe environment for sharing journeys toward self-acceptance.

Expert Insights: Healthcare Professionals Weigh In

Healthcare professionals are increasingly vocal about the risks associated with both the resurgence of thinness trends and the promotion of extreme weight loss methods. Dr Sarah Nguyen, an Australian GP with a special interest in adolescent health, warns, “We’re seeing a rise in young people presenting with disordered eating behaviours, many of which are directly influenced by what they consume online. The normalisation of rapid weight loss, especially through medication misuse, is deeply concerning.”

Nutritionist Jason Li adds, “Social media algorithms don’t distinguish between healthy and unhealthy content—they just reward what’s popular. This makes it vital for users and parents to be aware of the potential for exposure to harmful messaging and to actively seek out balanced, evidence-based information.” Experts like Dr Nguyen and Li advocate for digital literacy, open conversations about body image at home and school, and support for those struggling with the pressures of online beauty standards.

Stories from Everyday Users: Community Empowerment

For many, finding like-minded communities online can be transformative. Brisbane uni student Ayesha recalls, “When I started following body neutrality accounts, I felt seen and supported in a way I never had before. The pressure to change how I looked started to ease.” Such stories highlight the practical impact of positive digital spaces, where users celebrate achievements unrelated to appearance and champion mental and physical wellbeing over unattainable ideals.

These grassroots movements are not only providing support but also arming individuals with the tools to challenge toxic narratives. By sharing personal victories and setbacks, users contribute to a more authentic, compassionate online culture—one where diversity is celebrated, and perfection is no longer the standard.

Conclusion: Towards a Healthier and More Inclusive Digital Future

The conversation about beauty standards on social media is far from over. Harmful trends—fuelled by algorithms and celebrity culture—continue to pose significant challenges. Yet, the rise of body neutrality advocates, the guidance of health experts, and the growth of supportive online communities offer hope for a more inclusive and positive digital landscape.

As these diverse voices gain prominence, they are gradually reshaping how social media users view themselves and each other. The journey is ongoing, but with continued advocacy and open dialogue, there is real potential for social media to become a space that celebrates every body—not just a select few.