TikTok’s ‘pheromone-maxxing’ craze urges young men to skip hygiene for dates

On TikTok, a growing number of teenage boys and young men are adopting a practice dubbed “pheromone-maxxing,” which involves skipping showers, foregoing deodorant, and in some cases drinking their own urine before a date. Advocates argue that a stronger natural musk will increase sexual desirability, a claim that lacks solid scientific backing. Experts explain that although human odors can influence perception, researchers have not identified a definitive human pheromone that reliably alters behavior.

Past studies, such as the 1995 “sweaty T-shirt” experiment, showed mixed results regarding scent preferences tied to genetic differences. The trend is part of the larger “looksmaxxing” culture, where users pursue extreme measures to improve attractiveness. Reactions on platforms like Reddit and commentary on one outlet’s “The Five” have largely criticized the practice as unhygienic and misguided.