If you open TikTok or Instagram, you will first see many filters. Some filters are fun; they can turn your picture into an anime character or show how you might age. They’re even filters that change the color of your eyes, hair and freckles.

Even though they might seem harmless, it’s evident that social media has become a place where everyone wants to alter their appearance. Not that just, it has perpetuated a whole new crisis regarding body image.

Let’s talk in-depth about how it affects women and men and what you can do to reduce the harmful side effects.

The Effects of Social Media on Body Image 

Social media puts a lot of pressure on people to appear a certain way. It expects users to bring themselves as their best self in terms of beauty. In fact, the use of face-altering filters has become so common that people have been requesting plastic surgeons to make them look like their filtered face.

How and where has it affected social media users? Let’s check it out.

Body Dissatisfaction

Social media has cultivated an awful environment for young kids. Most people edit their pictures to fit specific beauty standards. And as kids consume social media, they internalize it and compare themselves to unrealistic standards.

A British study of 175 women and nonbinary people showed that about 90% used filters or photo-editing tools to alter their photos before posting. This shows how they feel about themselves – a portrait of dissatisfied individuals.

Constant Exposure to Your Image

With how many hours the average person spends on social media, they’re always aware of their appearance. People on video calls look at their images from various angles.

This exposure can take a toll on your health if you’re already insecure. Slight imperfections can get blown out of proportion and seem like hideous features.

The worst part is what you see in the camera isn’t the real you. Cameras disturb what you look like. One study even proved that selfies can distort how your nose and other parts of your face look.  

How Can You Combat the Effects of Social Media on Body Image?

If you know that social media is the problem, you’re already on the right track. But it’s a long journey to self-love and acceptance. Surprisingly, you can even use social media to help you through this struggle.

Here are some ways you can reverse these effects.

Unfollow All Accounts That Make You Feel Bad About Your Body

The culprit is social media, but you can make it a healthier place for yourself. Many health influencers and celebrities promote unhealthy standards and hyperfocus on appearance. Unfollow all those accounts on TikTok that make your body shame you. 

For example, if you are body shamed on how you look or eat, block them, mute them or simply unfollow them.

Social media is ever-relevant, and going cold turkey might not be the best way to reduce its effects. So, it would help if you filter out the following people to make your time on social media bearable:

Instagram Influencers: Influencing has become a job now, and most Instagram models and influencers highly modify how they look to appear perfect. Their looks aren’t attainable, so let them go. You won’t miss out on anything special. 

Health and Fitness Influencers: Unless you’re a certified dietitian and nutritionist, don’t take advice from health and fitness influencers. Usually, they’re sponsored by bizarre weight loss brands, so never take their advice. You can also utilize Instagram profile viewer like tools to measure the authenticity of their fan following. To them, every Instagram viewer matters, and they’ll do anything for fame. 

Posts Before and After Transformations: People’s journey with their bodies can be inspiring. But if you’re struggling with your body image, avoiding before and after photos is best. Take time for your journey.

Follow More People Who Promote Body Confidence

The next step is to follow more people who remind you that beauty isn’t skin-deep. Try to follow creators who are genuine and actually give good advice when it comes to health and beauty. You should also try to follow creators that look like you so you can feel represented.

Once you start following those who are body positive, you’ll become part of communities that actively combat the effects of social media. You can find support groups online that will understand your struggles and even help you reach peace of mind.

If you want to take this a step further, you can even start your own community. For example, you can begin posting on TikTok about mindfulness techniques. And to boost yourself, you can purchase TikTok likes so your content can reach a wider audience.

Ways to Come Out of Constant Body Image Issues on Social Media 

Take Social Media Breaks

If you’re tired of all the talk around bodies and appearances, deactivating your social accounts will be handy. Try limiting your social media use and focusing on your health rather than your appearance.

Take some time to indulge in your hobbies and spend time with your family to ease the burden of constant exposure to your image.

Seek Professional Help

If you think your self-esteem issues have started affecting your daily life, don’t be afraid to go to a professional therapist for help. The truth is underlying anxiety and eating disorders could be getting worse with the use of social media. 

The earlier you seek help, the better it will be for you in the long run. 

Conclusion: Social Media’s Impact on Body Image 

Social media can be a very messy platform. And if you know its effects, you can understand what it does to your psyche. All in all, be mindful of how you use it and take time off if needed.

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