Scientists Warn of Risks Associated With 'Voicemaxxing' Trend

Scientists are issuing an urgent warning about a growing internet trend known as 'voicemaxxing,' where individuals, primarily men, attempt to lower their voices to enhance their perceived attractiveness. The trend, popularized on platforms like TikTok, involves various techniques, including humming, breathing exercises, and particularly 'neck crunches,' which are exercises focused on strengthening neck muscles.

According to an article published in The Conversation by Australian scientists Samuel Cornell, Krista Fisher, and Rob Brooks, habitually speaking at an artificially low pitch can lead to a condition called muscle tension dysphonia. This condition results from strain caused by squeezing the muscles around the voice box, leading to a voice that sounds rough, tight, or breathy, and may even cut out mid-sentence.

While some methods associated with voicemaxxing, such as humming and proper breathing techniques, are considered harmless and are even used by singing instructors, others pose a risk of long-term vocal damage. The 'neck crunches' technique, which involves exercises to strengthen the sternocleidomastoid muscles in the neck, is highlighted as particularly concerning. Voice professionals argue that vocal resonance, which adds depth and color to the voice, is achieved by releasing tension in the jaw rather than by building neck muscle strength.

Furthermore, research suggests that the perceived effectiveness of voicemaxxing may be limited. While studies have indicated that women generally find deeper male voices more attractive, a 2013 paper from McMaster University found that deliberately altering one's pitch does not necessarily increase vocal attractiveness. The study suggests that exaggerating a sex-typical pitch may not enhance attractiveness, and exaggerating a sex-atypical pitch could even decrease it.

The 'maxxing' trend, which encompasses various self-improvement behaviors like 'looksmaxxing' and 'tanmaxxing,' sees participants focusing intensely on specific habits. Voicemaxxing has gained significant traction within this online culture, with users sharing guides and testimonials on social media platforms, claiming that deeper voices lead to greater attraction and confidence. However, scientists are cautioning that these efforts might not yield the desired outcomes and could instead result in vocal strain and damage.