TikTok has officially blocked search results for the hashtag #skinnytok, a term associated with videos that promote extreme thinness and potentially harmful diet and workout routines. The platform announced this step after growing criticism that the hashtag was contributing to unhealthy weight loss trends, especially among young and vulnerable users.
Now, instead of seeing related content, users searching for #skinnytok will be redirected to mental health support resources—a move welcomed by health professionals and advocacy groups.
Reviewing its safety measures to “address evolving risks”, TikTok said, “We continue to restrict videos from teen accounts and provide health experts and information in TikTok Search.”
Tom Quinn of the UK-based eating disorder charity Beat praised the initiative, highlighting the potentially “devastating” effects such content can have on individuals struggling with eating disorders. However, he warned that more needs to be done as harmful content often resurfaces under new hashtags and alternative phrases.
The US-based National Alliance for Eating Disorders reports that the hashtag had amassed over half a million posts, many of which promoted low-calorie diets and exercise routines masked as wellness advice. In reality, experts argue, this content glorifies being underweight and encourages disordered eating behaviors.
France’s digital minister applauded TikTok’s decision, attributing the platform’s policy change to persistent lobbying by European policymakers.
The issue has sparked alarm in France, where medical professionals report that social media influence is increasingly difficult to counter during therapy. Nutritionist Carole Copti expressed concern about the extent of indoctrination among patients consuming such content for hours daily.
While TikTok’s action marks a significant step towards online safety, experts urge further regulation and monitoring to address workarounds and similar harmful trends still circulating online.
