Parents of teenage boys are increasingly concerned about the extreme beauty standards promoted by men's magazines and social media, according to a writer who fears her sons are being pressured to achieve an unattainable physique. The trend, sometimes called 'mogging', involves intense focus on muscle building and skincare, reminiscent of the pressures faced by young women.
Men's Health magazine, which arrives monthly for one 17-year-old, features cover stars with 'veiny thoroughbred muscle' and constant advice on building abs, crushing workouts, and dominating body parts. While the magazine also covers male mental health, the emphasis on physical perfection is hard to ignore. Love Island contestants, with their hairless, six-packed bodies, further reinforce these ideals for young men.
Statistics show that young men now struggle with body image almost as much as young women. NHS data reveals a 70% increase in men receiving treatment for eating disorders between 2010 and 2016, and the Children's Society reports that one in 12 boys are unhappy with their appearance. The writer notes that her sons' cupboards are full of protein powders with names like Beast and Venom, and their bathroom shelves are stocked with scrubs, moisturisers, and even eye cream.
The author, who recovered from bulimia, draws parallels between her own youth and her sons' experiences. She warns that the line between self-care and obsession is easily crossed, especially with digital content fueling unhealthy habits. While her own boys seem balanced, she worries about vulnerable teenagers who may turn these messages into a 'joyless obsession'.
