Lifestyle

Body Shaming on Social Media: When did appearance become everyone’s business?

By Regina Bless · 8 September 2026

Body Shaming on Social Media: When did appearance become everyone’s business?

Written by; Regina Bless

Social media has created a platform where people can freely express their opinions, but it has also contributed to the growing problem of body shaming.

People are criticised for being too thin, too fat, too dark, too light, too tall or too short. Even when someone shares a simple photograph, strangers may feel entitled to make hurtful comments about their appearance.

Repeated body shaming can affect a person’s confidence and self-esteem. Young people, in particular, may begin comparing themselves with unrealistic images presented online.

Everyone deserves to feel comfortable in their own body. Constructive advice is different from insults, ridicule and humiliation.

As social media continues to influence society, users must learn that behind every photograph is a real person with feelings.