TikTok has recently taken a stand against the harmful trend known as 'legging legs.' The platform has decided to ban the term due to concerns that it could be damaging to individuals struggling with eating disorders. The term 'legging legs' gained significant attention on TikTok, as it was used to describe the notion that only those with long, thin legs should wear tight-fitting leggings, excluding individuals with cellulite, hip dips, or shorter legs.
Recognizing the potential harm this trend could cause, TikTok has deleted the hashtag #legginglegs. In its place, the platform has provided information related to eating disorders and disordered eating. This development will likely be met with relief by many creators who have criticized 'legging legs' as yet another toxic beauty standard imposed on women. They have also highlighted the triggering effect this trend could have on those battling with eating disorders or body dysmorphia.
As the hashtag gained popularity, users expressed their concerns and frustrations. 'What are 'legging legs,' and why is there a new insecurity on this app every week?' asked one TikTok user in a viral video. Suzanne Baum, a lifestyle editor, micro-influencer, and mother-of-three, described the 'legging legs' trend as sickening. Baum emphasized how it reinforces the pressure on young people to have a specific body shape to be deemed worthy of wearing leggings.
Experts, including psychotherapist and anxiety specialist Kamalyn Kaur, have shed light on how these toxic trends can affect young individuals. Kaur explains that exposure to narrow and idealized beauty standards can lead to negative body image perceptions, low self-confidence, low self-worth, and even the development of unhealthy behaviors such as disordered eating or excessive exercising.
The impact of eating disorders is significant, affecting millions of people worldwide. In the UK alone, around 1.25 million individuals suffer from an eating disorder, according to Beat Eating Disorders. In the United States, the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders states that approximately 28.8 million people will experience an eating disorder at some point in their lives.
Recent studies have highlighted the connection between social media usage and eating disorders, particularly in young individuals. The constant exposure to unattainable beauty standards, such as the 'legging legs' trend, can exacerbate body image issues and negatively impact mental health.
TikTok's decision to ban the 'legging legs' hashtag is a step in the right direction towards promoting body positivity and protecting vulnerable individuals. By replacing it with information about eating disorders and disordered eating, TikTok is contributing to a healthier social media environment.
As users, it's important to be aware of the impact that trends like 'legging legs' can have on vulnerable individuals. Let's strive to create a supportive community that embraces diverse body types and values authenticity over unrealistic standards. Together, we can foster an online space where everyone feels accepted and celebrated, regardless of their appearance.
