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In today’s world, economic struggle is a defining characteristic of our time. People in Western countries frequently discuss how expensive everyday life has become. Yet, social media platforms like TikTok persuade many to purchase unnecessary products.
Not only do these platforms encourage buying things we don’t need, but they also promote items of questionable quality. A prime example of this phenomenon is the Crumbl Cookies craze that swept through social media.
TikTok has democratized fame, offering anyone — whether it’s a person or a business — a chance to go viral. While this might help little-known products or businesses get the recognition they deserve, it can also inflate the hype surrounding lackluster ones.
Influencers frequently post dramatic reactions to Crumbl Cookies’ weekly flavors, expressing over the top reactions like it’s the best thing ever.
However, many who visit Crumbl Cookies without sponsorship often agree that the cookies don’t justify such reactions. While they’re good cookies, they’re far from revolutionary. Some career reviewers on social media act as if each cookie is a groundbreaking flavor. That simply doesn’t represent an accurate picture of the truth.
These exaggerated responses aren’t unique to Crumbl Cookies. Overconsumption is a rampant trend online. As I scroll through my TikTok feed, I see countless influencers enthusiastically reviewing their 15th red lipstick, urging followers to purchase it.
TikTok’s introduction of its shopping feature only makes this issue worse. Every other video is an ad, persistently suggesting that we need new products. However, this isn’t true. It’s unnecessary to try every new Crumbl Cookies flavor or buy more clothing and makeup you won’t use.
Many influencers and content creators post videos encouraging followers to purchase the latest skincare, makeup, or fashion items. For instance, TikTok has popularized products like Drunk Elephant skincare, which is often marketed to teens even though its products are primarily designed for older adults. These videos, where teens show off their new products in daily routines, create a false sense of urgency and the fear of missing out, leading to impulsive spending among young viewers.
Posting videos talking about how everyone absolutely needs these five new products can reach young audiences and convince them they need a specific set of products in order to follow some complicated routine.
This type of overconsumption is not only financially harmful but also mentally damaging. Adolescence is a time when fitting in feels crucial, and the constant stream of “must-have” products on social media can make young people feel pressured to conform.
The fight on overconsumption must continue because people should not feel pressured to purchase things they don’t need. Many people may feel that the pressure of ads, sponsored videos and dramatized reactions will never get to them. However, such frequent exposure, compounded by the amount of time the average person spends on social media, is still cause for concern.
It’s really important to not fall into the trap of overconsumption. Consumers should start thinking independently, resisting the urge to let paid reviews dictate their spending. Prioritizing financial health over fleeting trends is crucial in a world of overhyped and underwhelming products.
