TikTok’s latest trend is out to prove that “less is more.”
If you’ve been on the app at all over the last few weeks, there’s a good chance you’ve seen videos about “de-influencing.” It’s a growing movement encouraging us to hit the pause button on our spending habits and take a more sustainable approach to consumption. Instead of pushing viewers to try the latest makeup product or Amazon must-have, TikTok influencers are urging us to think twice before buying into fast fashion cycles and consumer culture.
@livvvmarkley I I could talk about so many products I’ve tried and didn’t like. Let me know if I should make this a series. #QuakerPregrain #skincareyoudontneed #deinfluencing #skincare #skintok
Under the hashtag #deinfluencing, you’ll find thousands of videos with creators sharing their tips on how to resist the temptation of impulse buys and make more mindful choices when it comes to our purchases.
You might be thinking to yourself, “isn’t this still a form of influence?” After all, these creators are still shaping our behavior and choices, even if they’re encouraging us to consume less.
@themelaninmorgan Over consumption is real. Shopping addiction is real. #greenscreen #overconsumption #shoppingaddiction #deinfluencing
Well, that’s where the debate gets interesting. Some argue that de-influencing is just another way for influencers to flex their influencer muscles, while others see it as a much-needed pushback against the pressures of consumerism and the constant need to keep up with the latest trends. Fast fashion in particular has seen a troubling rise, as clothing production has doubled while a garment’s lifetime has decreased.
Influencers have spent years building platforms that encourage audiences to get caught up in the hype of new releases and limited edition drops. But experts have shared that level of overconsumption is not sustainable, for the planet or our wallets.
@impactforgood_ Declutter your home & then learn to buy less. It will change your life #deinfluence #deinfluencing #deinfluencingmakeup #deinfluencingproducts #minimalism #minimalist #sustainabilitytiktok #imperfectsustainability #sustainablelifestyle #eco #ecofriendly deinfluence deinfluencing Skincare routine Make up routine
So while de-influencing may just be another trend influencing how we should live our lives, it’s definitely not the worst thing to sell.