Influencers could undergo a dramatic transformation over the next 25 years. By 2050, a “horrifying” new breed of social media stars may emerge, according to predictions from a recent scientific study.
Just 25 years ago, the concept of social media—and influencers—barely existed. Now, it dominates daily life, with many of today’s biggest celebrities falling into that very category.
Being an influencer today is more than maintaining an online presence. It means providing a service—often in the form of ads, endorsements, and collaborations—worth thousands, if not millions, of dollars annually. Even smaller creators have demonstrated just how far their earnings can stretch from a handful of viral videos.
But the very trends fueling this industry could lead to unexpected—and unsettling—physical changes.
What influencers of 2050 might look like
As reported by the Daily Mail, researchers have developed a model named “Ava” to represent what influencers could look like in the year 2050.
Ava’s appearance is striking: a hunched back from years spent craning over phones and laptops, patchy skin and dark under-eye circles from constant LED exposure, and a sharp “witch chin” shaped by repeated filler treatments.
She also shows signs of significant hair thinning and bald patches, the long-term result of years of extensions and styling, leaving her with noticeably finer hair overall.
The researchers behind the model issued a stark warning:
“While Ava is the face of tomorrow’s social media star, she is always today’s warning. She’s what years of algorithm-chasing, beauty standard obsession, and constant content creation can do to a person.
From endless brand trips to Las Vegas to the daily grind of filters and photo shoots, her lifestyle has left its mark. Backed by medical research, Ava’s appearance is the sum of influencers’ habits.”
@shivalibest Move aside Molly-Mae and Zoella – this is what scientists say influencers will look like in the year 2050 😳 #influencers ♬ Spooky, quiet, scary atmosphere piano songs – Skittlegirl Sound
More than skin-deep consequences
The predicted effects aren’t just cosmetic. Influencers of the future may also face serious health challenges, with chronic fatigue among the most concerning.
According to the BBC, many influencers already work upwards of 90 hours a week, often late into the night, sacrificing rest to keep up with relentless posting schedules. The toll this takes over time is immense.
The experts cautioned: “Over time, this can lead to chronic fatigue, thinning hair from disrupted melatonin production, and swollen lower eyelids.”
Source: unilatech.com