TikTokers blame office air theory for making them “ugly” at work

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A popular TikTok trend claims that something about being in the office – dubbed the ‘office air theory‘ – is making people feel less attractive while they’re at work.

Many people no longer commute to an office, with remote work – whether from home or elsewhere – becoming increasingly common. However, some employees still need to travel to the office daily, or at least several times a week.

TikTok creator Noa Donlan gained popularity with her “office air theory.” Donlan, often called the “office air girl,” explains that poor air circulation in offices and schools can subtly change your appearance throughout the day.

She first noticed it while she was in college, but it really became clear to her after she started working full-time about four years ago, she told People.

Office air theory goes viral on TikTok

Donlan originally shared this idea on TikTok and Instagram in January, and it’s become much more popular since then, as others on social media have started discussing it and raising similar points.

One viewer commented that going to the office always leaves her feeling bloated, puffy, and with a bad headache. Another said that work makes her feel unattractive, and she was serious.

Several people shared that they experience strange stomach issues only when they’re at work. One person jokingly said they felt so unattractive at the office, while another mentioned developing acne after starting a corporate job, something they hadn’t dealt with in years.

The TikTok creator has kept posting about the idea, and some of their videos have gotten millions of views. This has also encouraged others to share their own ideas for solutions.

This theory is unlike other popular TikTok trends, like the ‘airport theory.’ While that one focuses on speeding up your journey to the airport, this one suggests you might look different afterward.

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2026-03-31 13:48