Wellness “maxxing” trend raises health concerns

A growing social‑media phenomenon called “maxxing” encourages people to maximise every aspect of self‑care – from looksmaxxing and sleepmaxxing to fibre‑ and proteinmaxxing. Influencers promote stacking activities such as meditating while exercising, using multiple skin‑care products, and consuming high‑dose supplements or IV drips.

Health professionals warn the obsession can backfire. NHS GP Dr Ahmed El Muntasar, who also works as a cosmetic doctor, says patients present with skin burns, breakouts and anxiety after over‑loading on retinoids, acids and supplements. Psychotherapist Billie Dunlevy and clinical psychologist Jennifer Hartstein note that extreme routines can increase stress and undermine overall wellbeing. In India, Aparna Kakrania, co‑founder of Beyond Beyond Skincare, stresses that sustainable habits should empower rather than exhaust. The consensus across the UK and India is that the “maxxing” mindset turns sensible health advice into a competition, risking physical and mental health.