The increasing presence of AI-generated models in advertising and social media is raising concerns about their impact on body image, particularly among young people. Individuals like Mia Perumal, who has experienced an eating disorder, express fears that these models may exacerbate unrealistic beauty standards and negatively influence youth self-esteem.
Experts note that AI-generated images often default to narrow beauty ideals, potentially reinforcing harmful societal biases. As brands explore the use of AI in marketing, the emotional detachment consumers feel upon realizing models are not real highlights the need for awareness and critical engagement with digital content.