Plastic surgeons are reporting more cases of young men harmed by DIY cosmetic injections promoted in "looksmaxxing" communities. Black-market substances — including silicone, body oils, and liquid cement — can cause infections, migration, autoimmune reactions and permanent scarring. Doctors warn that anonymous influencers often lack medical credentials and urge anyone considering cosmetic work to consult licensed professionals.
Young Men Turning to Risky DIY Injections for 'Looksmaxxing' — Doctors Warn of Severe Complications
Close up of shirtless sportsman holding injection of steroids in gym's locker room.
If you've spent any time on social media recently, you've probably seen the term "looksmaxxing": an online movement encouraging young men to pursue extreme cosmetic changes in pursuit of an idealized appearance. While some participants follow harmless grooming or fitness advice, others are experimenting with dangerous, unregulated procedures — including self-injected fillers sourced from black- and gray-market suppliers.
What Doctors Are Seeing
Plastic surgeons report a steady rise in young male patients seeking corrective care after DIY cosmetic procedures. One frequent problem is self-injected filler complications. Dr. Timothy Katzen, a Beverly Hills plastic surgeon, says cases involving foreign materials introduced by nonprofessionals have increased over the last five to seven years.
"A lot of teenage boys, and men in their early 20s, think they're invincible — they believe, 'I can do this better than the doctors,'" Katzen says. "They don't realize how badly things can go wrong."
What People Are Injecting
According to treating surgeons, substances range from injected medical-grade fillers bought and misused, to outright dangerous materials: silicone, body oils, and even liquid cement. Many patients say they did not fully know what was in the syringes they used.
Health Risks and Long-Term Harm
Complications from DIY filler injections can be severe and sometimes permanent. Reported problems include:
- Serious infections that require hospitalization and antibiotics
- Migration of injected material to other tissues, creating hard-to-treat lumps
- Autoimmune-like reactions and chronic inflammation
- Scar tissue and disfigurement that may need complex surgical removal
Dr. Krishna Vyas of Blechman Plastic Surgery warns that anonymous influencers often offer step-by-step advice without medical training, which can translate into dangerous outcomes.
Broader Trends
The interest in male cosmetic procedures is growing. The American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery reported that 95% of facial plastic surgeons treated male patients in 2025, up from 92% in 2024, making men one of the fastest-growing demographics seeking facial work. But many men pursuing changes are bypassing licensed providers and following online forums that teach self-injection techniques.
What Experts Recommend
Surgeons advise anyone considering cosmetic enhancement to consult board-certified practitioners and to be wary of quick-fix solutions offered online. "Don't get hypnotized by the internet," Katzen says. "Things can go wrong. You may spend a lot to fix it — and it still might not look better."
If you or someone you know is tempted to self-administer injections, seek medical advice first. Licensed professionals can explain safe, evidence-based options and the real risks of DIY procedures.
Originally reported by USA TODAY; edited for clarity and accuracy.
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