The rise of ‘de-influencing‘ on TikTok: Why some creators are telling you not to buy
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tiktok is known for driving trends, often leading to viral products and shopping hauls. But a counter-movement is gaining traction: “de-influencing.” Creators are using the platform to warn against hyped-up products, share alternatives, and encourage mindful consumption.
“De-influencing is essentially the act of discouraging people from buying into trends or products that aren’t worth the hype,” explains Kayla Renee, a 24-year-old creator who posts de-influencing content. “It’s about being honest and clear with your audience, even if it means potentially losing out on brand deals.”
The trend emerged as a response to the constant stream of product recommendations and the pressure to keep up with the latest must-haves. Many creators feel a responsibility to push back against consumerism, especially as they recognize the impact of fast fashion and overconsumption on the habitat.
“I started noticing how many products were being pushed on us that were just… needless,” says Hannah, a 22-year-old de-influencer. “I wanted to use my platform to show people that they don’t need to spend a ton of money to look good or feel good.”
De-influencing videos often take the form of “dupes” – affordable alternatives to expensive products – or honest reviews highlighting flaws and shortcomings. Some creators are even actively discouraging purchases altogether, suggesting people utilize what they already own.
The movement isn’t without its complexities. Some critics argue that even “de-influencing” can contribute to consumerism by simply shifting the focus to different products. Others point out the potential for creators to profit from recommending alternatives.
Though, proponents argue that the core intention is to empower consumers to make informed decisions and resist the pressure to constantly buy new things. It’s a shift in the influencer landscape, one that prioritizes authenticity and mindful consumption over endless promotion.
“It’s not about never buying anything,” Kayla renee clarifies. “It’s about being intentional with your purchases and not falling for the hype.”
As de-influencing continues to grow, it could signal a broader change in how people approach consumerism and the role of social media in shaping their purchasing habits.
Winter Storm to Bring Extreme Weather to Upper Midwest, Great Lakes, and Northeast
A powerful winter storm is bringing extreme weather to the Upper Midwest, Great Lakes, and Northeast this weekend.
The National Weather Service (NWS) says the system will intensify over the next few days and conditions are expected through Tuesday.
“Arctic air will descend into the Plains beginning Sunday followed by a potent winter storm across the upper Midwest to the Great Lakes Sunday night to Monday,” according to a bulletin from the NWS posted on Saturday.
A man cleans off his car of snow in Brooklyn after an overnight storm on Dec. 27, 2025 in New York City.
Spencer Platt/Getty Images
winter Storms Bring Ice and Extreme Cold to Northeast, While South Experiences Unseasonably Warm Temperatures
A stark contrast in weather conditions is unfolding across the United States, with a dangerous ice storm impacting the Northeast and frigid temperatures gripping the Northern Plains, while the South enjoys a taste of spring. The National weather Service is warning of hazardous travel conditions and dangerously low wind chills.
Northeast Braces for Ice Accumulation and bitter Cold
A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for parts of eastern New York, Connecticut, and Massachusetts, with potential ice accumulation reaching up to a quarter of an inch. This ice buildup can cause treacherous conditions on roads, sidewalks, and trees, leading to power outages. Specifically, warnings are active for areas including New York County (NYC001) and fire weather zone NYZ208. Rensselaer, NY is also under advisory.
Beyond the ice, the Northeast will experience significantly below-average temperatures.
Northern Plains Face Extreme Wind Chills
Further west, the Northern Plains are facing dangerously cold temperatures and extreme wind chills. Parts of North dakota could see wind chills as low as -35 degrees fahrenheit, while northern Minnesota may experience wind chills down to -25 degrees Fahrenheit. These conditions can cause frostbite and hypothermia within minutes, so residents are urged to take precautions. The National Weather service provides resources on staying safe in extreme cold, including dressing in layers, avoiding prolonged exposure, and recognizing the signs of frostbite and hypothermia.
South Enjoys spring-Like Temperatures
In stark contrast to the frigid North, the South and Tennessee Valley are experiencing unseasonably warm temperatures. Highs in the 70s are possible, offering a preview of spring.Forecasters at the National weather Service predict these warmer conditions will continue temporarily. This warm spell is due to a high-pressure system dominating the region, drawing warm air from the Gulf of Mexico.
key Takeaways
* Northeast: expect ice accumulation, hazardous travel conditions, and below-average temperatures.
* Northern Plains: Prepare for dangerously cold temperatures and extreme wind chills.
* South: Enjoy unseasonably warm temperatures, potentially reaching the 70s.
This weather pattern highlights the dynamic nature of winter in the United States. It’s crucial to stay informed about local forecasts and heed warnings from the National Weather Service to ensure safety during these contrasting conditions. As the week progresses, it’s crucial to monitor for any shifts in these weather systems and adjust plans accordingly.