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Lookmaxing: The concept of maximizing one's physical appearance is discussed, with reference to an app called "umax" that rates users based on attractiveness. This app allows users to take a picture and, after paying a fee, receive a score indicating how attractive they are compared to others.
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masculinity: The discussion touches on masculinity and how the app rates users on it, with a humorously critical perspective on how the app conveys one's manliness.
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Growth of lookmaxing: The importance of grooming and lookmaxing in modern society is noted, with lookmaxing becoming more acceptable for men as part of self-improvement. A reference to subreddits dedicated to grooming and lookmaxing illustrates the app's potential influence among users.
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Beauty Standards and Pressure: Concerns are raised about the increasing pressure on men to conform to beauty standards, similar to what women have traditionally faced, leading to a "beauty arms race."
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Business Behind the App: The app's business model is highlighted, with a mention of a six million Annual Recurring Revenue (ARR) and its strategy to capture one-off payments that turn into repeated charges.
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Personal Experiment: A personal trial with the app is shared, showing how the app suggests a routine to improve appearance, linking users to purchase recommended products as part of the "glow-up" journey.
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Reflection on Impact: The app's impact on different age demographics is considered, acknowledging how different life stages might determine one's engagement with the app and lookmaxing practices.
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Men's Fashion and Beauty Trends: The conversation shifts to broader trends in men's fashion and beauty, including the acceptance of traditionally female-associated practices like nail painting among male public figures.
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Implications: The concluding part of the discussion reflects on potential societal changes as men pay increasing attention to their appearance, which could have significant cultural implications.